PM Delivers NDIS Legislation

The Prime Minister has introduced legislation for a National Disability Insurance Scheme into Federal Parliament describing the Bill as complex, ambitious and urgent and the greatest change to Australian social policy in a generation.

Gillard told Parliament in the Second Reading Speech that while the Bill is complex, there is a need for a nation-wide, demand-driven system of care tailored to the needs of each individual and established on a durable, long-term basis.

“That can only be accomplished through the united effort of the community through the positive action of government, supported by the Australian people through our public revenues," Gillard said. 

“Therefore, this Bill will inscribe in our laws a substantial and enduring reform that will fundamentally change the nature of disability care and support in this nation: the National Disability Insurance Scheme."

Gillard said the Bill reflects the extensive work on design, funding and governance undertaken with states and territories and with people with disability, their families and carers, and with key stakeholders.

“This Bill will be subject to scrutiny, to further work, too. The Government intends to refer this Bill to a Senate Committee to allow consideration in detail.

“It is our intention to bring a final version of the Bill for a vote in the Budget session of Parliament next year ahead of the start of the first stage of the NDIS from July 2013.

“This National Disability Insurance Scheme represents a transformational approach to the provision of disability services in this country.

“Rather than attempt to patch and mend the existing system through further incremental change, we will build a new system from the ground up,” the PM said.

“The scheme will move away from the crisis model, where families only receive support if they are unable to continue in their caring role and there are no other options.

“Instead, it will work with families before they reach crisis to make sure that the valuable informal care they provide is sustainable.

“The scheme will also aim to foster innovative services that are delivered and coordinated by local people.

“The National Disability Insurance Scheme is the greatest change to Australian social policy in a generation.”

The Prime Minister also paid tribute to the Not for Profit sector for its efforts in securing an NDIS.

"I also pay tribute to a remarkable story of advocacy, led by Bruce Bonyhady and Rhonda Galbally, the National Disability & Carer Alliance, the National People with Disability & Carer Council, and friends, activists and advocates in communities right across the country."

The Bill creates the framework for a national scheme, including eligibility criteria, age requirements, and what constitutes reasonable and necessary support. 

The Bill is available at www.ndis.gov.au.