The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) faces significant changes as the Australian government proposes amendments aimed at reducing scheme costs by over $30 billion across four years. A Senate inquiry held over six days scrutinized these changes, focusing on their impact on people with disabilities, their families, and carers.

Modelling suggests that if the amendments pass, more than 300,000 participants could be excluded from the scheme or prevented from joining. The government has indicated that funding for community and social participation—used by participants to hire support workers for activities like medical appointments or shopping—would be cut by 50%.

State and territory ministers submitted a strong rebuke, stating the pace of change is too rapid, consultations have been insufficient, and alternative services are not yet ready.

Disability Discrimination Commissioner Rosemary Kayess warned that the cuts could leave many participants trapped 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 key concern. Ms 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 received 4,500 submissions within two weeks, reflecting widespread concern. While there was consensus on the need to stamp out fraud and rorting within the scheme, witnesses emphasized that cost-cutting should not compromise participant safety or carer wellbeing.

Sources

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