Arabic version: الحكومة تقترح إصلاحات كبيرة على نظام التأمين الوطني للإعاقة

Federal Health Minister Mark Butler has announced significant changes to Australia’s National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), which could result in more than 160,000 participants losing access to the program. The proposed reforms aim to reduce the number of participants from approximately 760,000 to 600,000 by the end of the decade, with an estimated cost reduction from $70 billion to $55 billion by 2030. According to ABC News, Butler stated that the new eligibility criteria will focus on a person’s “functional capacity that impacts their day-to-day living” rather than solely on diagnoses.

The overhaul includes a crackdown on unregistered providers and expands mandatory registration categories to cover higher-risk activities such as personal care and daily living supports. Additionally, a new digital payments system will be implemented for providers to enhance oversight and combat fraud, as current claims lack adequate supporting evidence.

Butler also indicated that funding for social and community participation will be scaled back to 2023 levels, citing concerns about the effectiveness of support workers. The average expenditure per participant in this area has significantly increased, prompting the government to aim for a reduction in costs while ensuring essential services are maintained.

To support community engagement, the federal government plans to establish a $200 million Inclusive Communities Fund, which will assist community organizations in providing new opportunities for individuals with disabilities to participate in their local communities. The proposed changes are set to be introduced to parliament next month.