NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission
Submission 67 ~,;-.. / ~~~,,. w
Tasmanian
Government
5 October 2020
The Hon Kevin Andrews MP
Chair
Joint Standing Committee on the National Disability Insurance Scheme
Email: ndis.sen@aph.gov.au
Dear Minister
The Tasmanian Government welcomes the opportunity to respond to the Joint Standing Committee on the National Disability Insurance Scheme’s Inquiry into the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission.
The safety and wellbeing of Tasmanian NDIS participants is a key priority for the Tasmanian Government. An effective Commission is critical in ensuring Tasmanian NDIS participants feel safe and are able to access and receive quality supports regardless of the type of services they need or where they live.
The Commission commenced operations in Tasmania on 1 July 2019 replacing previous state-based quality and safeguarding arrangements in place before and during transition. As an independent agency established to improve the quality and safety of NDIS supports and services, I understand the Commission’s primary functions are to regulate NDIS providers, provide national consistency, promote safe, quality services, resolve problems and identify areas for improvement.
With the recent completion of the Commission’s first full year of operation in Tasmania, the Government considers it timely to inquire into its performance and operations. The Inquiry’s Terms of Reference have been noted and, rather than addressing each aspect, a high-level response is attached highlighting areas of relevance based on Tasmania’s experience of the Commission.
The Government looks forward to the outcome of the Inquiry along with any associated recommendations that contribute to improving national consistency, supporting service providers to deliver quality services, empowering and upholding the rights of NDIS participants and generally improving the experience for NDIS participants, their carers, families and advocates in Tasmania.
Yours sincerely