Illawarra NDIS participants have voiced strong opposition to proposed cuts to the National Disability Insurance Scheme, warning that the changes would leave vulnerable Australians without essential support. At a community forum in Wollongong, dozens of people with disabilities, their families, and advocates gathered to express their concerns about the potential impact of the federal government's review.
Community Forum Highlights Concerns
The forum, organized by local disability advocacy groups, heard emotional testimonies from NDIS participants who rely on the scheme for daily living supports, therapies, and assistive technologies. Many speakers described how the NDIS had transformed their lives, enabling greater independence and participation in the community.
“Without the NDIS, I would not be able to work or study,” said one participant, who asked not to be named. “These cuts would take away my freedom and dignity.”
Proposed Changes Under Fire
The proposed cuts, part of a broader federal government review of the NDIS, aim to rein in costs and improve sustainability. However, critics argue that the changes would disproportionately affect people with complex needs and those in regional areas like the Illawarra, where access to services is already limited.
“The NDIS was designed to provide individualised support,” said Jane Smith, a local advocate. “These cuts would turn it into a one-size-fits-all system that fails to meet the needs of many participants.”
Call for Action
Participants and advocates are calling on the federal government to abandon the proposed cuts and instead invest in improving the efficiency of the scheme without reducing support. They have launched a petition and plan to meet with local MPs to voice their concerns.
“We will not stand by while our rights are eroded,” said Mark Johnson, a spokesperson for the advocacy group. “The NDIS is a lifeline for thousands of Australians, and we will fight to protect it.”
The forum concluded with a commitment to continue campaigning against the cuts and to raise awareness of the importance of the NDIS in the Illawarra community.
