The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is under scrutiny following a report by the Grattan Institute, which warns that the program has expanded too rapidly, threatening its sustainability. The report, titled “Saving the NDIS: How to rebalance disability services to get better results,” highlights that while costs must be controlled, this should not compromise the support available to disabled Australians.
According to the report, the NDIS expenditure reached nearly $42 billion in the 2023-24 period and is projected to exceed $58 billion by 2028. Dr. Sam Bennett, Director of the Grattan Institute’s Disability Program, emphasized the urgency of reform, stating,
“The problem is the NDIS has become the only game in town: you either get an NDIS package, or you get minimal mainstream services.”
The report suggests that the federal, state, and territory governments, who agreed in 2023 to fund new ‘foundational supports’ outside of individual NDIS packages, must act swiftly to implement these changes by the July 2025 deadline. These supports are crucial to ensuring that disabled individuals receive appropriate assistance without solely relying on the NDIS.
Proposed Reforms and Financial Implications
The Grattan Institute’s blueprint proposes significant policy changes to redefine the boundaries of the NDIS, aiming to clarify eligibility and the needs it addresses. The report advocates for more choice and flexibility in the use of NDIS funding and stresses the importance of establishing a robust tier of foundational supports.
Under this plan, the existing NDIS budget would fund these foundational supports without requiring additional financial resources. The proposed changes are expected to reduce NDIS payments by approximately $12 billion over the next decade, with further savings of $34 billion by avoiding new funding allocations.
Government’s Response to Online Gambling Criticism
Meanwhile, Employment and Workplace Relations Minister Amanda Rishworth has defended the government’s actions regarding online gambling reforms. Despite criticism over delays in implementing recommendations from a two-year-old inquiry, Rishworth highlighted the Albanese government’s proactive measures, including banning credit card use and introducing activity statements.
Rishworth acknowledged the complexity of minimizing online gambling harm, stating,
“We will continue to recognize and look at how we can best support people when it comes to minimizing the harm of online gambling, but there’s no silver bullet.”
Critics, however, argue that the government’s inaction is “costing lives.”
Shark Attack on NSW North Coast
In other news, a teenage boy was airlifted to Gold Coast University Hospital after a shark attack on New South Wales’ north coast. The incident occurred at Cabarita Beach, where the boy sustained injuries to his hand and arm. Emergency services responded promptly, and further updates on his condition are awaited.
Controversy Surrounding Former Greens Candidate’s Arrest
Former Greens candidate Hannah Thomas has been charged with resisting police following an arrest at a pro-Palestinian protest in Belmore. Thomas, who suffered facial injuries during the arrest, shared her ordeal on social media, expressing concern over potential permanent vision loss in one eye.
NSW Greens MP Sue Higginson has called for an investigation into the incident, highlighting the need for accountability. In a statement, NSW police confirmed that Thomas received a court attendance notice for hindering police duties and failing to comply with dispersal directives. She is scheduled to appear in Bankstown local court on August 12.
Quad Meeting in Washington, DC
On the international front, Foreign Minister Penny Wong is set to attend a Quad meeting in Washington, DC, alongside counterparts from the US, Japan, and India. Hosted by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, the meeting underscores the strategic importance of the Indo-Pacific region.
Wong emphasized the significance of the alliance, stating,
“The United States is our closest ally and principal strategic partner. Our alliance contributes to the peace, prosperity, and stability of our countries and the region we share.”
The meeting also coincides with discussions on defense spending and efforts to arrange a meeting between Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and the US President.
Queensland Nurses Threaten Strike Action
In Queensland, the Nurses and Midwives’ Union has issued an ultimatum to the state government over pay negotiations. The union demands a 13% pay rise over three years, rejecting the government’s offer of 8%. Union Secretary Sarah Beaman warned of potential strike action if their demands are not met by July 2, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing dispute.
Beaman criticized the government’s negotiation tactics, stating,
“This is a government who knows the cost of everything but the value of nothing. The government needs to do better by putting forward a better EB12 offer.”
The possibility of strike action looms, with nurses poised to take industrial action for the first time since 2002.
As these stories unfold, they highlight the diverse challenges and developments facing Australia, from domestic policy reforms to international diplomacy and labor disputes.
