'Left feeling like a burden': How the government's new NDIS changes may impact you

The overhaul of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) has passed the Senate, with support from the Coalition. The changes, which will be sent to the Labor-controlled lower house for final approval, have raised concerns among disability advocates. The Grattan Institute predicts that hundreds of thousands of people may be removed from the scheme or denied entry.

Applicants will undergo a new assessment process to evaluate their functional capacity, replacing the existing diagnosis-based model. Megan Spindler-Smith, acting CEO of People With Disability Australia, expressed grief for her community, stating that the changes will lead to isolation and reduced access to necessary supports. The government claims the overhaul will save nearly $38 billion over four years, but the Greens argue that this financial focus has made many disabled individuals feel like a burden.

Greens MP Jordon Steele-John stated that during the debate, many people shared their feelings of being treated as a burden. Health Minister Mark Butler emphasized the need to curb spending growth to maintain the scheme's financial sustainability. The government struck a deal with the Coalition, incorporating 63 amendments, many of which are seen as minor tweaks.

Coalition amendments include creating new fraud offenses for NDIS providers offering inducements or kickbacks, and clarifying parents' responsibilities and rights to request reassessment. The Greens secured clarification that restrictive practices are not part of "all appropriate treatment." The focus will now shift to state and territory programs, which will provide alternative supports starting in January 2028, funded through a $10 billion commitment.

Despite the progress, challenges remain in designing and delivering these alternative supports, particularly for children with mild to moderate autism and developmental delays.