Changes Needed to the NDIS Bill

The Tasmanian Government is calling on Federal NDIS Minister Bill Shorten not to move the NDIS Bill through the Senate this week unless the states and territories concerns are addressed. 

Premier Jeremy Rockliff, alongside South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas, raised significant issues with the NDIS Bill as currently presented in person with Minister Shorten last week and highlighted the need for appropriate governance and risk-sharing in any changes.

“We are concerned the Bill as it is stands would allow the Federal Government unilateral oversight and ability to flex transition arrangements that could have significant cost and social impacts on states,” Premier Rockliff said. 

“Unilateral power to impact the lives of people with disability and their carers is a significant shift away from the original co-governance model, which shares responsibility between the Commonwealth and the States. 

“While the Tasmanian Government supports containing the growth and proper use of NDIS funds, this should not come at the expense of the co-governance principle.”

At the meeting, on behalf of all states and territories, the Premiers made clear that appropriate sequencing of any changes, including the development of a new intergovernmental agreement, is required.

“The Commonwealth must act in good faith to address the concerns raised by the states and territories to ensure the principles of the scheme are maintained and that the December 2023 National Cabinet decision is respected,” Premier Rockliff concluded.