ndis funding here we go again

Here we go again!

Visiting Sydney as

Queensland Representative

for Supported Art Studio

The National Disability Insurance Scheme known as the ndis is not a luxury. It is not about better lives. It is a system to ensure people with disabilities; their families and carers; have the same access to a lifestyle enjoyed by other Australians.

The Liberal Governments announcement to propose the reallocation of funding intended for the ndis to drought proofing Australia or other agendas tells people with disabilities what society thinks.  'We do not fully belong to society.' Our needs can only be met in times of affordability.

The ndis has the potential to contribute to the economy in the same way company tax cuts do.  Just because the big end of town has disposable income to support major political parties, does not lessen the contribution people with disabilities and their families can make.  The ndis is very much about lifting the poverty rates of the 460 000 Australians set to benefit.  Regardless of community views we have the right to accessible accommodation; not see 80 year old parents care for 56 year old children; or forgo income to care for an adult child; the right to an education; not be financially disadvantaged to pay for costs associated with access needs; not to sit in nursing homes when we turn 45; access to training and employment. 

How many times do we need to prove the ndis will save money on our care long term, create employment and lessen the burden of family members being dependent on Centrelink,  Why would you choose to 'future proof' one industry over another?  Both the agricultural and disability sectors need economic security, both groups have the same right not to experience the emotional toll of financial insecurity.  

The government has a responsibility to honor the bi-partisan agreement to fund the ndis in full into the future.  Those with disabilities and families have enough uphill battles to fight to keep funding every time money is needed elsewhere which is precisely why it needs to be funded in full by a medicare Levy as originally intended.  Mr Morrison stop robbing Peter and ensure our standard of living too. 

Celebrating the signing of the ndis

agreement between the then 

Federal and State Governments

Photo curiously of ALLARA Queensland and Judy Dixon

Rest assure Scott Morrison and future governments we will demand our voices are heard.