National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Securing the NDIS for Future Generations) Bill 2026
Submission 3470
Dear Parliament,
I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the proposed changes to the Bill, particularly those relating to the reduction of capacity-building supports, the potential for future funding reductions across support categories, and changes to eligibility criteria.
My concerns are not only for participants and families, but also for the sustainability of the allied health workforce that supports them. As an Occupational Therapist, I take immense pride in providing evidence based, individualised, and ethical care. Meaningful therapy is not quick or superficial. It requires time. Time to assess thoroughly, analyse carefully, interpret patterns, collaborate with families and stakeholders, provide coaching and education, and develop supports that are truly tailored to the individual.
Effective intervention is built on trust, consistency and deep understanding. Without adequate time and resources, there is limited opportunity to provide the depth of support people genuinely need to build independence, participation, and long-term outcomes.
I spent years studying and training to become an Occupational Therapist. Like many allied health professionals, I continue to dedicate significant personal and professional effort to maintaining evidence based practice, ongoing learning, and high ethical standards. People with disability and their families also invest enormous effort every day toward participation, autonomy, and quality of life. The proposed changes risk undermining both.
I have seen firsthand the impact that comprehensive assessment, coaching, planning, and intervention can have over time. These supports do not simply create short-term improvements; they contribute to lifelong outcomes. They help people develop skills, strengthen autonomy, engage in education and employment, build relationships, participate in their communities, and contribute meaningfully to society - to a thriving Australia.
Occupational therapy is fundamentally about participation in daily life. Occupation is both a means and an outcome. When supports are reduced, participation is reduced. The long-term consequence may not be immediate, but it will be felt across families, schools, workplaces, healthcare systems, and communities for years to come.
I do not believe these proposed changes adequately address the true source of strain within the system. Occupational Therapists are regulated professionals bound by ethics, evidence-based practice, and ongoing professional accountability. We are trained to identify needs, build capacity, and optimise outcomes responsibly and collaboratively. However, this work cannot be sustained without adequate funding and structural support.
Many clinicians are already experiencing significant pressure, burnout, and financial strain. Reductions to funding and support structures risk worsening workforce attrition, reducing access to care, and increasing long-term costs across other systems. A system cannot remain sustainable if both consumers and the workforce supporting them are stretched beyond capacity.
Occupational Therapists are people too. We cannot continue to deliver high-quality, ethical, and sustainable care without the resources required to do so. These changes risk taking away from both clinicians and consumers alike. This is not simply about funding. It is about people, participation, dignity, and the future sustainability of support systems that countless Australians rely upon.
I urge you to carefully consider the broader human impact of these proposed changes. Not only on participants, but also on the professionals who dedicate their lives to supporting them.
Yours sincerely, A dedicated and compassionate Occupational Therapist