Reflecting on NDIS Changes: Balancing Accountability, Support, and Care

 Hi everyone, I've been reflecting a lot on the recent NDIS changes. As I went through the list, I found myself torn between thinking some cuts seem reasonable and questioning why certain things are being removed. On one hand, I see the need to reduce waste within the NDIA system, but on the other hand, some of these cuts are concerning.

For those who are higher-functioning, caregivers legally responsible for someone with a disability, or providers, it's important to give feedback. We need to refocus on what is reasonable and necessary. Our taxes aren't unlimited, and it makes sense to remove items that lack scientific evidence of effectiveness. However, person-centered care should remain a priority. Some services, like certain health treatments, could be funded by the health department. If you want something like getting your nails done, that should be paid for out of pocket—just like everyone else. There are various ways to earn money, whether through a job, running a business, working from home, content creation, data entry, or transcription. While each comes with its own challenges, supported workplaces also have their place.

Cutting waste and introducing support staff registration are steps in the right direction, but registration is a complex topic that requires careful discussion. This is especially true for support workers who go independent, as ethics can sometimes become questionable. However, it's important to note that this doesn't apply to all independent workers—many provide excellent care.

Support coordinators also play a crucial role in the system. They act as a valuable buffer, pushing both service providers and the NDIS to ensure good service, reduce costs, and adhere to reasonable timelines for planning. This is especially important when timelines blow out, as people are understandably worried about whether service providers will offer grace periods.

Introducing registration for support staff would align the profession with health staff requirements, such as continuing professional education and social media guidelines. I've noticed many people on TikTok who think it's acceptable to call out others and engage in mean-spirited behavior, but this is not okay. Specifically, it's not acceptable to label support workers who don't or can't do personal care as "pseudo-support workers." It's just mean, and we all need to take a bit of accountability for the way we treat others in this profession. In nursing, such behavior could result in disciplinary action, and I believe similar standards should apply here.

Support workers who assist higher-functioning clients often face more complex tasks, such as handling business-related activities, providing transportation, and navigating complex social situations. This type of support can be more emotionally draining and requires identifying and filling skill gaps in the client's life.

Let's provide our feedback and be grateful that we live in a country where caring for the disabled is considered a shared responsibility.