National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Securing the NDIS for Future Generations) Bill 2026 Submission 39
Dear Members of Parliament,
Thank you for taking time to read through my submission
I am writing as an autistic adult and an NDIS participant to express how life-changing the NDIS has been for me, and to share my deep concerns regarding the ongoing cuts, reforms, and changes to disability supports.
The NDIS has given me opportunities that I never thought were possible. Through the support of occupational therapists, allied health professionals, and support workers, I have been able to build confidence, develop important life skills, and participate in the community in ways that many people take for granted. These supports have helped me become more independent, socially connected, and actively involved in everyday life.
Before receiving the right supports, many aspects of life felt overwhelming and isolating. The NDIS has helped me feel included, understood, and capable. It has not only improved my practical daily living, but also my overall mental health, wellbeing, and quality of life.
As an autistic person, consistency and access to appropriate supports are extremely important. Reducing or removing these supports would have a severe negative impact on my life. My mental health and overall wellbeing would deteriorate greatly, and many of the positive gains I have worked hard to achieve could be lost. The fear and uncertainty surrounding these reforms is already causing significant stress and anxiety for many people within the disability community, including myself.
The proposed changes are particularly concerning to me because they directly affect the supports I rely on to function and participate in everyday life. A proposed 10% cut to capacity building daily activity supports would reduce my ability to continue developing essential life skills, maintaining routines, improving independence, and managing daily challenges associated with autism. These supports are not optional extras — they are critical for helping me maintain stability, confidence, and the ability to engage in everyday activities safely and effectively.
I am also deeply concerned about the proposed 50% cut to social, civic, and community participation supports. These supports are what allow me to leave the house, engage with the community, build social connections, and avoid isolation. Without them, I would become far more isolated and disconnected from society, which would have a major impact on my mental health, emotional wellbeing, and overall quality of
National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Securing the NDIS for Future Generations) Bill 2026 Submission 39
life. Community participation has helped me grow in confidence, improve communication skills, and feel like a valued member of society rather than being excluded from it.
One of the core principles of the NDIS is “choice and control.” However, with the current cuts, reforms, and restrictions being proposed, it feels as though that choice and control is being taken away from us. People with disabilities deserve the ability to make decisions about the supports that help us live safe, meaningful, and independent lives. When funding and services are reduced, our independence and participation in society are reduced as well.
The NDIS is not a luxury — it is a necessity. These supports allow people like me to contribute to the community, maintain our health, and live with dignity. I ask that you please consider the real human impact these decisions have on autistic people and all Australians living with disability.
I hope that the voices of NDIS participants, families, and support networks are genuinely listened to before decisions are made that could permanently affect our lives.
Thank you for taking the time to read my letter and consider my perspective.
Sincerely,