IAC Meeting bulletin, 15 August 2024
The Independent Advisory Council (IAC) to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) met online on 15 August 2024. IAC members discussed:
what they have heard in their communities
their Work Plan for 2024-25
views about the IAC and Reference Group joint forum, held 3-4 July 2024
ways the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) can make the NDIS better for First Nations participants.
Ms Leah van Poppel, IAC Principal Member and NDIA Board Member, led the meeting. She welcomed Mr Jeff Smith, Disability Advocacy Network Alliance (DANA) CEO, to the IAC in his new role as Expert Advisor. She also welcomed attendees from the Agency, including Mr Kurt Fearnley AO, NDIA Board Chair and other members of the Board, Dr Denise Napthine AO and Dr Peta Seaton AM.
Representatives from the NDIA’s leadership team also came to the meeting to hear members’ reports from the community and to discuss ways to make the NDIS better for First Nations participants.
What members have heard in their communities
IAC members acknowledged the significant change period for the IAC and wider disability community, who are awaiting the Government’s response to the Independent Review of the NDIS (NDIS Review) and continuing to consult on proposed NDIS legislative reforms. There was recognition of the importance of accurate and timely information and communications from the NDIA being balanced and safe.
While there was positive feedback on the Agency’s co-design work to deliver newer format NDIS plans, there is some concern that participants may be experiencing issues with plan reviews and rollovers. There were reports that some ‘check-in’ phone calls from the NDIA lead to unanticipated plan outcomes for participants.
Members raised concern that some providers, especially those in rural and remote areas, are unable to deliver services under the changes to the NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits. There were reports that some providers are moving away from provision of NDIS supports.
There was positive sentiment around Queensland’s approach to reforms on foundational and educational supports, and optimism that other states and territories will follow their example.
Members also highlighted the importance of Garma Festival in better understanding First Nation’s culture, systems and customs.
IAC Work Plan and joint forum
Members shared their views on how to prioritise areas of advisory work, set out in the 2024-25 Work Plan. They agreed to strengthen overarching governance arrangements to better link the IAC with its Reference Groups. Members also highlighted the need for greater awareness about how the IAC and its Reference Groups interact with the Agency and Board to deliver its advice.
Members reflected on the inaugural joint forum of the IAC and its Reference Groups, held in July. They agreed the forum delivered positive outcomes and alignment for the IAC and its Reference Groups.
Ways to make the NDIS better for First Nations participants
The Agency and IAC discussed ways to support making the NDIS better for First Nations participants, by proposing to establish a First Nations Reference Group as part of the IAC.
Members unanimously supported the idea of establishing an IAC First National Reference Group. Members noted this is a positive step to strengthen and elevate the voice of First Nations people with disability in the Agency and Board.
More information on the IAC
The IAC will next meet on 11-12 September 2024. Find out more about IAC meetings and bulletins at the IAC website.