National Disability Insurance Scheme Introduced to Parliament

The much awaited National Disability Insurance Scheme Bill 2012 the legislation which establishes the framework for the National Disability Insurance Scheme and the National Disability Insurance Scheme Launch Transition Agency was introduced into the Federal Parliament on the last sitting day of the year (Thursday 29 November 2012).

The main effect of the legislation is that it will enable the NDIS scheme to be launched and the Agency to operate that launch in five sites across Australia from July 2013.

The press has quoted the Prime Minister as saying that the legislation is “a once in a generation opportunity” to change the treatment of less able citizens in Australia. The scheme is expected to cost about $15 billion a year when it is fully implemented in either 2018 or 2019, an amount that has been criticised by the opposition and those against the scheme as being beyond the capacity of the Australian economy to fund.

The legislation sets out the process for a person becoming a participant in the scheme. It also details how participants can develop a personal, goal-based plan with the Agency and how reasonable and necessary supports will be assured to participants. People in the scheme will be able to decide for themselves how to manage their care and support and choose how they want to manage their supports.
Additionally participants will be able to access assistance from local coordinators should they require help.

The legislation also provides that the Agency will be responsible for the provision of support to people with disability, their families and carers. This could include providing funding to individuals and organisations to help people with disability participate more fully in economic and social life. An independent review of the new Act commencing after two years of operation will be legislated through this Bill.

The first stage of the National Disability Insurance Scheme will on the governments estimates cost the Commonwealth $1 billion over four years from 2012-13.

While this is only a first stage it is pleasing to see action and efforts beyond rhetoric to finally deliver a national scheme.