Submission 2911 — Name Withheld — NDIS Future Generations Bill

National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Securing the NDIS for Future Generations) Bill 2026

Submission 2911

My name is                      . I am the wife of                      , who has a physical disability, and the

mother of             ,             , and             , who are all autistic and rely on NDIS supports to participate

in their communities. I have worked in the disability sector for more than 24 years and am currently studying to become a Developmental Educator. The NDIS is not just a government program to me—it is something that directly affects the lives, opportunities, and futures of the people I love most.

While I support reforms that strengthen the NDIS, I strongly oppose the proposed power under section 34A that allows the Minister to reduce funding categories without review rights. I am particularly concerned about the planned 50% reduction to Social and Community Participation funding. Decisions that can significantly affect a person’s quality of life should not be made without consultation, transparency, and the right to appeal.

Social and Community Participation funding is the support that helps my family members be part of the world around them. My husband uses these supports to maintain connections with others and remain engaged in his community despite the challenges of living with a physical disability. My daughter is a 21-year-old non-speaking autistic woman whose support workers help her access activities, build confidence, and experience life beyond the family home. These opportunities are vital for her wellbeing and personal growth.

My daughters        and         also rely on these supports to develop social skills, confidence, and

independence.           is 16 and is learning to navigate the transition to adulthood.          is only 10

and is still developing the skills many children take for granted. Through community activities and supported participation, both girls are learning how to engage with the world, build friendships, and become more independent. A 50% reduction in funding would mean fewer opportunities, greater isolation, and a significant setback in the progress they have worked so hard to achieve. It would also place additional pressure on our family as carers, forcing us to fill gaps that specialist supports currently provide.

I ask the Committee to recommend the removal or amendment of section 34A so that Social and Community Participation funding cannot be reduced without proper parliamentary scrutiny, individual assessment, and full review rights. These supports are not luxuries; they are essential to helping people with disability live connected, meaningful, and inclusive lives. Please ensure that families like mine are not left carrying the burden of decisions that will reduce opportunities and increase isolation for some of Australia’s most vulnerable citizens.