Submission Opposing the NDIS Amendment (Securing the

NDIS for Future Generations) Bill 2026 To the Senate Community Affairs Legislation Committee I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposed NDIS Amendment (Securing the NDIS for Future Generations) Bill 2026. While I support measures that address fraud, improve accountability and ensure the long-term sustainability of the National Disability Insurance Scheme, I am deeply concerned that many of the proposed changes risk excluding vulnerable Australians from essential support. The NDIS was created to provide support for Australians with permanent and significant disabilities so they can live with dignity, independence and participation in their communities. The proposed reforms appear to shift the focus from individual need towards cost containment and restriction of access.

Concerns Regarding Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

One of my greatest concerns is the likely impact on people with Autism Spectrum Disorder, particularly those diagnosed with ASD Level 1. Many individuals with ASD Level 1 experience substantial difficulties in employment, education, communication, executive functioning, social participation and independent living. While they may appear capable on the surface, many rely heavily on NDIS-funded supports to maintain employment, avoid mental health crises, develop life skills and participate safely in the community. The proposed move towards more restrictive functional capacity assessments and tighter eligibility criteria creates a real risk that people with ASD Level 1 will be deemed “not disabled enough” despite experiencing significant lifelong impairments. Removing access to early and preventative supports is likely to increase long-term costs to government through greater reliance on mental health services, crisis intervention, unemployment benefits and informal carers.

Concerns About New Functional Capacity Assessments

The Bill proposes a new framework for determining access based on functional capacity. While consistency is important, disability cannot always be accurately captured through standardised assessment tools.

• People with autism, psychosocial disability, fluctuating conditions, neurological disorders and many invisible disabilities often have highly variable presentations. A person may perform adequately during an assessment but struggle significantly in everyday life.
• I am concerned that standardised assessment processes may overlook the complexity of disability and fail to recognise genuine support needs.
• Any assessment framework must continue to place significant weight on reports from treating specialists, allied health professionals and those who know the participant best.

Impact on Families and Carers

Any reduction in eligibility or funding will inevitably shift responsibility onto families and unpaid carers. Many carers are already under immense financial, physical and emotional strain. Reducing supports may increase carer burnout, workforce withdrawal and mental health pressures across the community. These hidden costs should be carefully considered before implementing reforms that reduce access to support.

• not fit neatly within standardised assessment frameworks.

The NDIS should remain focused on supporting people with permanent disability to live meaningful and independent lives.

Protecting the future of the NDIS must not come at the expense of the people it was created to support.

Thank you for considering this submission.