Released 25/05/2018
The upcoming ACT Budget will invest in better support for Canberrans with disability by providing new funding for people who have high or complex support needs that are not currently being met by the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). The funding will also support additional advocacy services for people who need assistance to navigate the NDIS.
The ACT is proud to be the first Australian jurisdiction to roll out the NDIS, which is delivering choice and control for thousands of Canberrans with disability. In this year’s Budget, the ACT Government will contribute $137 million towards the scheme.
This transition to an entirely new service model is complex and the ACT Government is committed to ensuring that no-one seeking support gets left behind. That is why we will deliver $1.8 million for an Integrated Service Response as we continue to support the transition to the NDIS.
Of this investment, $1.1 million will be available in 2018-19 to purchase necessary supports for people with a disability who have high and complex support needs that are not being fully met by the NDIS.
The measure will also fund coordination staff within the Office for Disability to work with the NDIA and the mainstream service system to ensure that those people with complex support needs receive a coordinated service response.
In response to the challenges experienced by some NDIS participants, this funding includes $400,000 over two years for independent individual advocacy for people who require assistance to navigate the NDIS.
The Integrated Service Response program will monitor service gaps and issues arising from the implementation of the NDIS and work with the NDIA and across the ACT Government for further action.
We want to ensure the NDIS is a success and makes a meaningful difference to Canberrans with disability. As the scheme continues to roll out, it is important that our agencies are working closely with the NDIA to resolve issues and deliver a scheme that works in the interests of those who need it.
The Government will engage with community stakeholders and disability advocates to ensure the Integrated Service Response program reaches the Canberrans most in need and that clear channels exist for referrals. Community stakeholders and service providers play an important role in supporting the daily needs of Canberrans with disability and we will continue to work closely with them during this transition to the NDIS.
With the 2018 Budget, the ACT Government is growing our investment in frontline services and support for Canberrans who need it most.
- Statement ends -
Rachel Stephen-Smith, MLA | Media Releases