28/05/2026
A really great snapshot of where the NDIS started and where it may head if the changes being tabled are passed into law.
If you haven't got your submission in - don't panic, there's a few extra days to pop your thoughts down and have your experiences and worries included for the Senate Inquiry.
The Original NDIS Pillars 2013
A Human Rights & Individualised Support Model
1. Choice & Control
Disabled people directing their own lives and supports.
2. Individualised Support
Funding based on the person’s actual needs, goals and circumstances.
3. Inclusion & Participation
Supporting people to participate in community, education, employment and relationships.
4. Rights, Dignity & Independence
A system built around autonomy, equality and safeguarding against segregation and institutionalisation.
The “New” Direction Emerging From Current Reforms
A Welfare & Cost-Containment Model
1. Sustainability
Containing costs and slowing scheme growth.
2. Eligibility Restriction
Narrowing who is considered “disabled enough” for support.
3. Standardisation & Surveillance
Functional assessments, reassessments, tighter controls and increased compliance measures.
4. Reliance on Natural Supports
Shifting responsibility back onto families, carers and unpaid labour.
The concern many disabled people and families have is that the National Disability Insurance Scheme is shifting away from an individual human rights framework and back toward a traditional welfare model.
A human rights model asks:
“What supports does this person need to live an equal life?”
A welfare model asks:
“How much support can the system afford to give them?”
