NDIS review fast-tracked
The federal government is bringing forward its planned review of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).
NDIS Minister Bill Shorten says the review will now be held this year, and will build on “all the work that has come before” while also considering the perspectives of First Nations participants, different cultures, socio-economic groups, age, gender and sexuality.
The fast-tracked review of the NDIS was announced alongside new figures that show the scheme will cost around $8.8 billion more than earlier estimates, over a four-year period.
Mr Shorten says it is time to look closer at “the value of what we're getting”.
“Australian taxpayers are generous and they do support providing a decent scheme for people with disability. People with disability have the right to an ordinary life,” Mr Shorten said.
“The best way to get value for the scheme ... is to focus on the outcome or the benefit.”
The review will be chaired by Bruce Bonyhady, the inaugural chairman of the NDIS, and Lisa Paul, a long-time public servant.
The first part of the review, led by Professor Bonyhady, will look at the design, operation and sustainability of the scheme.
Ms Paul will lead the second phase, which will analyse how to build “a more responsive, supportive, and sustainable market and workforce”.