Getting the NDIS Back on Track Bill passes through Parliament

The recent NDIS Bill changes seek to improve the NDIS and make it more effective for people with disability. These changes include updates to how NDIS plans are assessed and budgeted, the introduction of a new navigator role, changes to plan management services, and improvements to the overall integrity of the NDIS. 

The NDIS are emphasising the role that people with disability will play in shaping these changes through a process of co-design. As such they have encouraged feedback and input. 

You can contribute your feedback here by joining the Participant First – Portal Here  

While the specific details of the changes are still being finalised, it’s important to know that current NDIS plans and processeses will remain the same for now.  

CSBS is here to support you through this transition and provide updates as more information becomes available.  

Be sure to stay tuned.  

22 August 2024, the National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Getting the NDIS Back on Track No. 1) Bill 2024 was passed by the Parliament. 

The Bill provides the framework to deliver on the NDIS Review’s vision to restore the NDIS to its original intent and deliver better outcomes for Australians with permanent and significant disability within a broader ecosystem of supports. 

Some of these changes will take time to develop together with people with disability but, once implemented, participants will experience the benefits. 

The task ahead for the Agency is to now deliver these reforms in partnership with people with disability. 

The bill proposes that it is absolutely essential people with disability continue to have a voice in how the detailed design is done and how these changes are implemented.  

The NDIA has been delivering reform in partnership with people with disability and the disability community over the past two years and co-design will continue to form the cornerstone of implementing change as we move forward. 

This includes a long-term program of work alongside people with disability on: 

• assessment and budgeting reforms 

• functions of new navigator role 

• changes to the way plan management services are delivered 

• a range of integrity improvements 

• design of the new psychosocial early intervention service. 

In addition to NDIS participants, the Independent Advisory Council, industry experts, the NDIA and other Government agencies, each co-design reference group will have dedicated representation from Disability Representative and Carer Organisations (DRCOs).  These organisations collectively represent people with disability and their families. 

This work will also happen in partnership with state and territory governments. 

This Bill has not come into effect yet, so there is not any immediate change. 

The passing of the Bill means there will be changes in the coming weeks once the laws come into effect. Until then: 

• all access and planning processes, decisions and supports will continue in line with current operational guidance. 

• participants should continue spending in accordance with their plans and existing policy guidance. 

• providers should continue to claim for supports in line with current operational guidance. 

The NDIA will work continue to share information in the coming weeks to: 

• explain what specific changes mean for you 

• explain when the changes will impact you 

• explain what you need to do to get ready for the changes 

• support you if you need help with the changes 

• give you opportunities to play a role in developing the detail and in implementing the changes. 

The NDIS has assured that all future changes will be supported with transparency and communication. And not all change will happen at once. 

The NDIS insist they will use ‘co-design’ to amplify the voices of people with disability – to ensure they get these improvements right.