The NDIS is really important and a giant leap forward. But organisations under the NDIS umbrella are service providers, not advocates.
An NDIS employment service can’t, for instance, independently go to bat for someone who is being discriminated against at work. The NDIS can’t help people facing difficult situations – whether relating to education, housing, violence and abuse, transport or child protection – to stand up for their own rights or find appropriate help for someone they love.
The NDIS won’t be able to help make the buses more accessible, get lift access finally on the Sydney Harbour Bridge or ensure children with disabilities are properly included in mainstream schools. NDIS representatives won’t have a seat at the table to help government plan and make better decisions, or address things we need to change.