Statement on NDIS Reform Announcement
On Wednesday, the Minister for Health, Ageing, Disability and the NDIS, Mark Butler, announced more changes to the NDIS that will have a significant impact on many NDIS participants.
I, along with many others in the disability community, agree that the NDIS does need to change so that it can continue to meet the needs of those who need it, however this announcement emphasises how little those in charge of the NDIS understand the complexities of disability.
I would like to highlight one of the more concerning changes, which will be to the eligibility. From 2028 eligibility to access the NDIS will be based on functional capacity and not based on diagnosis. This, as Mark Butler states, is to transition those with lower support needs from the NDIS to state-funded supports. Supports that don't currently exist.
I would like to take this opportunity to plead with the government to please actively consult experts in disability, such as the disability community, before going any further. These changes, if they proceed, will lead to many people being left without any support, as currently, there is nothing else out there.
At this time, it is not fully clear how these changes will affect the autism community, and unfortunately, I am unable to offer any reassurance other than to let you know you are not alone. The disability community will continue to fight for the right to access the community and to live a meaningful and independent life.
If you missed the announcement and are interested in learning more about the changes, I would recommend watching the full coverage yourself and not relying on the media, as I have found many media organisations are changing the narrative. you can watch the full announcement on ABC Iview: https://iview.abc.net.au/video/NC2611C013S00
People With Disability Australia have also started a petition to stop these cuts, you can sign by heading to: https://pwd.org.au/disability-rights/stopndiscuts/
Let's stand together against the continued deterioration of the NDIS.
Bryce Pace
Autism Advocate, Consultant, Speaker
