Hey everyone

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) has just gone through some significant changes with a range of exciting new reforms. These changes are designed to make the NDIS even more inclusive and effective, ensuring that it continues to empower and support people with disability across the country.

The Australian Government has announced over $724 million in funding for the NDIS over the next four years. This will ensure the National Disability Insurance Agency has the capability, capacity and systems to provide better support for participants.

There are six key initiatives that were announced a few months ago to ensure better support for participants. These initiatives are outlined on the NDIS website and include:

  • Addressing workforce capability to improve the consistency of access and planning decisions. This includes increasing the number of specialised planners.
  • Processes to support participants around better planning to manage their funding.
  • Implementing a lifetime planning approach so plans are more transparent and enable flexibility for life events.
  • Improving the consistency of supported independent living decisions. This will improve access to safe and supported living arrangements.
  • Helping participants understand and access evidenced-based supports. This will allow for specific individualised supports, as we don’t all fit in the same box and nor should we.
  • Supporting staff to detect, respond to, and reduce provider fraud and non-compliance.

So what do these reforms mean? On the 9th November 2023, I had the opportunity to participate in the National NDIS Roundtable on the Review and Royal Commission. At the event, there was a great deal of excitement around the changes. The panellists each outlined how providers will be more accountable for the supports they offer, which is a good thing. They also outlined how providers must individualise their supports to get the best outcome for every participant and to be inclusive in all aspects of their lives, which is something that can be taken for granted.

My key takeaway from the day …
One thing that surprised me the most was …

So, whether you’re directly impacted by these reforms, a family member, a carer or a passionate advocate for disability rights, these changes to the NDIS involve all of us. It’s time to come together, embrace these positive changes, and work towards a more inclusive, supportive, and accessible future.

Until next time, let’s keep living beyond limits!

Leigh

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