The Coalition has outlined the conditions under which it will support the Albanese government's controversial National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) reforms, demanding the release of official modelling to justify the proposed cuts.
Coalition's Stance on NDIS Reforms
Opposition NDIS spokesperson Melissa McIntosh revealed on Tuesday that the Coalition will back the reforms if the government provides its modelling. The reforms, announced by Health Minister Mark Butler in April, aim to overhaul the scheme amid concerns over sustainability and allegations of rorting.
Under the proposed changes, more than 160,000 participants would be removed from the scheme, with growth capped at 2 per cent. The reforms are set to face a parliamentary inquiry on Tuesday, with the Greens calling for an extended probe that could affect budget projections. Labor needs crossbench support in the Senate to pass the legislation.
McIntosh Accuses Government of Hoodwinking
Speaking on Tuesday, Ms McIntosh said: "The government promised there would reduce growth by 10 per cent, then 8 per cent, 5 per cent, now it’s 2 per cent. So if you’re getting to 2 per cent, show us some modelling, show us how you’re going to get there, and then they’ll have our support."
She accused the government of "hoodwinking" the disability community, adding: "We fought hard for this because we want a sustainable NDIS. But clearly the government did not consult with the disability community. They were hoodwinked by the announcement and now they’re trying to consult after the facts."
Opposition Leader Calls for Sustainable NDIS
Opposition Leader Angus Taylor said the inquiry aimed to ensure the legislation delivered a sustainable outcome. "I think every Australian wants to see a sustainable NDIS," he said. "And, right now, it’s not, and that’s why we’ve supported an inquiry to make sure the legislation that comes to the parliament for a vote – in the end, in the Senate – is legislation that will deliver a sustainable outcome."
The Albanese government has stated that the reforms would save the budget $35 billion over four years. However, advocates have warned against stripping benefits from current participants, and state governments have yet to fully back co-funded measures outside the scheme, such as the Thriving Kids program for children with ADHD.
