National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Securing the NDIS for Future Generations) Bill 2026
Submission 2943
To whom it may concern,
As grandparents of a child who receives support through the NDIS, we are concerned about proposed changes that may reduce access to early intervention and disability services for children with developmental challenges.
Before our family was personally affected, we did not fully appreciate the impact that neurodevelopmental disabilities can have on a family. Like many Australians, we understood that raising a child with additional needs would present challenges, but we did not realise the extent to which it can affect every aspect of family life.
What we have witnessed is not only the challenges faced by the child, but also the significant burden carried by parents.
Families often spend countless hours attending therapy appointments, liaising with schools and healthcare providers, completing assessments and advocating for appropriate support. Many parents reduce their working hours, delay career progression or leave the workforce altogether in order to meet their caring responsibilities. The emotional, financial and practical demands can be immense.
These are not choices families make lightly. They are responses to the reality that, without support, their children may struggle to participate successfully at school, in community activities and in everyday life.
The support provided through the NDIS helps ease some of this burden. It gives children access to therapies that build important life skills and provides families with the tools and guidance needed to support their child’s development. Early intervention can improve educational outcomes, increase independence and reduce the need for more intensive support later in life.
We recognise the importance of ensuring the NDIS remains sustainable. However, we are concerned that reducing support for children with developmental disabilities may create greater costs elsewhere. When families lose access to services, the pressure does not disappear. It is absorbed by parents, schools, healthcare systems and community services.
As grandparents, we have seen the difference that appropriate support can make. We have also seen the dedication, resilience and sacrifice required from parents who are doing everything they can to help their children thrive. These families are not seeking special treatment. They are seeking the support necessary to give their children the same opportunities that other children enjoy.
We encourage lawmakers to ensure that any reforms continue to support early intervention and recognise the broader impact that disability has on families. Investment in these children is not only an investment in their future, but also in the wellbeing, productivity and resilience of Australian families.
National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Securing the NDIS for Future Generations) Bill 2026
Submission 2943
Thank you for considering our submission.