Canberrans with disability fear NDIS changes will cut vital support

The federal government has announced a significant NDIS overhaul aimed at reducing spending and participant numbers, sparking concerns among disability support recipients regarding their future independence and access to community activities.

For recipients like Ellie Kaduszyn, a Kaleen resident living with autism, the proposed changes create uncertainty about her ability to maintain a normal life. Ms. Kaduszyn, who has received in-home support since her teens, relies on the scheme for activities including disability soccer, tennis, and Special Olympics training.

“I wouldn’t be able to live independently or do things that everyone else does without [the NDIS],” Ms. Kaduszyn said, noting that community engagement is vital for both mental and physical health.

Concerns Over Stability and Inflation

Canberra resident Christina Ryan, who uses an NDIS package for essential equipment and support, emphasized that disabled people require certainty to organize their lives. She noted that securing specialized gear and support staff can take months to coordinate.

Ms. Ryan urged the government to account for inflation and the rising cost of living when calculating average package costs. She stated that half of all disabled people live in poverty or well below the poverty line on very low incomes.

Federal Disability Minister Mark Butler confirmed the government intends to reassess all current plans as part of the effort to reduce the scheme’s financial footprint.

ACT Government Response

The ACT government is currently evaluating how to fill potential gaps in the system to ensure residents are not left worse off. ACT Disability, Carers and Community Services Minister Suzanne Orr stated the government has “a lot of questions” regarding the changes.

Ms. Orr noted that the response may involve re-prioritizing, expanding, or creating new programs. As part of this effort, the ACT government will roll out the Thriving Kids program starting in October.

The Thriving Kids program will replace some supports for children up to age eight who have autism or mild to moderate developmental delays. The rollout is expected to take 18 months.

Federal Defense of the Overhaul

Federal Finance Minister Katy Gallagher defended the overhaul, arguing that the current system often acts as a “one-way ticket” for those with non-significant support needs who cannot afford private sector interventions.

Ms. Gallagher stated the changes are necessary to ensure that those who truly need the scheme receive the appropriate support while keeping the social program financially manageable.

While the federal government has committed to working with states and territories to provide “quality local supports” for those who lose eligibility, some recipients remain skeptical that local systems can be rebuilt quickly enough to prevent a lapse in care.