Submission 2729
Submission Regarding Proposed Changes to the
National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)
Name:
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to express my strong concerns regarding the proposed changes to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and to urge Parliament to protect the supports that thousands of Australians with disability rely upon every day.
While I am not an NDIS participant myself, I have seen firsthand the importance of disability supports through people close to me who rely on them. These supports are not extras or luxuries. They are essential services that allow people with disability to live safely, participate in their communities, maintain their wellbeing, and experience the same opportunities that other Australians often take for granted.
I do not support any changes that would reduce access to necessary NDIS supports. Australia should be investing in and protecting its most vulnerable citizens, not creating additional barriers for people who already face significant challenges in their daily lives.
Support workers provide far more than assistance with tasks. They help people attend medical appointments, maintain personal care, develop independence, access education and employment opportunities, participate in their communities, and maintain social connections. They are often the difference between a person being able to live
Submission 2729
a fulfilling life or becoming isolated and excluded from society.
There is a common misconception that NDIS funding pays for participants ’meals, entertainment, or personal expenses. This is not the case. NDIS funding pays for the support worker who assists the participant to safely access activities and participate in everyday life. The participant is responsible for their own personal expenses, just as any other Australian would be.
Reducing support hours or funding will not create greater independence. For many people, it will have the opposite effect. It will increase isolation, reduce community participation, negatively impact mental health, and place greater pressure on families and informal carers. It may also increase the likelihood of crisis situations and more expensive interventions in the future.
People with disability deserve dignity, respect, and equal opportunities. They deserve the ability to build skills, maintain relationships, engage with their communities, and pursue their personal goals. The NDIS plays a vital role in making these opportunities possible.
I recognise that there have been concerns regarding misuse of NDIS funding by some providers and organisations. However, reducing supports for participants is not the answer. The focus should instead be on improving oversight, strengthening accountability measures, and taking action against those who exploit the system.
I encourage the Government to focus on:
Submission 2729
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Strengthening regulation and auditing of providers.
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Investigating fraud and misuse of participant funding.
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Improving accountability across the disability sector.
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Investing in training and education for support workers.
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Reducing unnecessary administrative burdens on participants and families.
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Ensuring the NDIS remains responsive to the genuine needs of people with disability. A fair and compassionate society is measured by how it treats its most vulnerable members. People with disability should not have to fight to retain the supports they need to live safe, meaningful, and independent lives.
I respectfully urge Parliament to reject any measures that would reduce essential NDIS supports and instead focus on improving the system while protecting the rights, wellbeing, and quality of life of Australians living with disability.
Thank you for considering my submission.
Yours sincerely,