The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is facing its most significant changes since inception, with the Australian government proposing amendments aimed at reducing scheme costs by over $30 billion across four years.

During a six-day Senate inquiry concluding on Friday, August 7th, 2026, senators scrutinised how these changes might affect people with disabilities, their families, and carers. The inquiry received submissions from 4,500 groups and individuals, many expressing concern.

Modelling indicates that if the proposed changes proceed, more than 300,000 participants could be forced out of the scheme or prevented from joining. State and territory ministers criticized the rapid pace of reforms, citing inadequate consultation and unprepared alternative services.

The government plans to cut by 50% the funding stream that participants use to hire support workers for community access activities such as medical appointments and shopping.

Disability Discrimination Commissioner Rosemary Kayess warned that these cuts could leave many participants in unsafe environments similar to those revealed by the Disability Royal Commission. She said, "They end up in either closed environments or isolated environments, and they are at risk of violence, abuse and exploitation."

Carer burnout was a prominent concern. Kakoschke-Moore stated, "Expecting a parent to single-handedly provide the same level of care and support as a team of skilled, qualified, experienced support workers, risks putting that family into further crisis and may lead to increased instances of carer burnout."

The inquiry also heard calls for the government to stamp out fraud within the system while ensuring cuts do not compromise participant safety or carer wellbeing.

The proposed reforms have sparked significant debate about balancing cost control with the needs of people with disabilities and their carers.

Sources

ABC Australia News: NDIS Senate inquiry hears concerns of carer burnout, slashing of social supports and 'dangerous' ministerial powers