National Disability Insurance Scheme

What is a National Disability Insurance Scheme?

People who acquire a disability through a workplace or a motor vehicle accident generally receive financial support. However, for those who acquire permanent disabilities in other accidents, are born with a permanent disability, acquire a permanent disability through a medical condition or have a permanent mental illness, there is no automatic support to meet their needs.

An NDIS is a no-fault insurance-based scheme providing cover to all Australians as and when they need it. Funding for essential care, support, services, therapy, aids, equipment and training would be provided through the scheme, which would be funded by all taxpayers through general revenue or extending the Medicare levy.

It’s expected that the main beneficiaries of an NDIS would be those with profound and severe disabilities; those who have moderate disabilities would be eligible for some assistance based on their needs.

Eligibility standards for the scheme should be nationally consistent; the system should be focused on the individual, based on their needs and choices, as well as those of their families and carers. The system should centre on early intervention, long-term support and maximise each individuals opportunity for participation.

Why do we need a National Disability Insurance Scheme?

As a nation we need to move beyond the current crisis-driven system which makes access to basic services such as early intervention, housing, educational employment and recreation difficult for people with a disability and their families.

We need to ensure adults with a disability can move away from their families if they wish to; that ageing parent carers can retire from caring by supporting the transition of their son or daughter to supported community living.

Sustainable and predictable funding for disability services is critical to provide comprehensive life time care for eligible people with a disability and their families.The number of people with a disability is increasing and the number of people able to provide unpaid care is falling. This means the cost to government is expected to escalate dramatically in the future - an NDIS would provide a secure funding resource for disability services and support.

Carers SA together with Carers Australia, and a large number of people with a disability, carers, disability services providers, peak organisations, academics and experts, has pledged its support for the introduction of a National Disability Insurance Scheme.

This is a key opportunity for real system reform. Join the growing campaign for a National Disability Insurance Scheme, pledge your support and take action now!

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