THE mantra of senior Labor Party Minister, Bill Shorten, for his NDIS portfolio is to find out what’s best for people living with a disability by listening to them.
And that’s what he did in Ipswich last week at a forum organised by Federal Blair MP, Shayne Neumann.
The forum at the Jets Leagues Club was attended by local NDIS clients, carers and providers as well as disability advocates.
In a wide-ranging discussion, Shorten touched on reform, the current review of the scheme, NDIS financial sustainability, fraud and over-pricing in the disability sector.
He also spoke on the latest breakthroughs in assistive technology, the role of service providers, disability housing issues, and interactions with the aged care system.
Minister Shorten told attendees that the government’s restructure of the NDIS would ensure that every dollar would go to participants.
The former Labor leader said being the Minister responsible for delivering the NDIS during the previous Labor government was one of the proudest moments of his career.
“The introduction of NDIS has seen a fundamental shift in the way we support people with disability,” he said.
“The NDIS is a life-changing piece of economic and social policy, and it is our duty to make sure it’s here for generations to come.
“I truly believe that the NDIS is the best change politics has delivered in the 21st century.
“Together, we need to make sure the NDIS reflects our vision – and that it works for all participants.
The review of the NDIS, which is aimed at ensuring the scheme is working effectively to deliver services and supports to people with disability, will be released in October.
The review submission process is fully accessible, so all people with disability can take part and have their say, including online, on the phone, via video or by writing in.
