17/12/2024
Hi
You may be aware that there have be recent changes to NDIS.
A couple of changes have affected Vik's use of his support workers.
NDIS no longer cover Workers Compensation Insurance. Workers Comp has been the requirement in WA since NDIS began. Therefore Vik cannot use Kelly and Ben, his current workers, who are independent workers. Work Cover has declared VIk's workers as employees and therefore they require the family to take out workers compensation insurance. This is not viable for families supporting their adult children who have disabilities.
Kelly and Ben are now undertaking the rigorous process of becoming NDIS registered workers so they can continue to work with Vik under different employment conditions with NDIS registered agencies and platforms such as Humdrum. This will take some time and, meanwhile, Vik cannot access support with those who know him well and can cater to his needs.
It is a very confusing time for Viktor and we are grateful for the understanding shown by the Perth western suburbs community as their can not be collected by Vik at this busy time of the year.
This is the first of many change to NDIS that includes the introduction of debt collection from participants. Those who were affected by will be understandingly very concerned by the potential for Robodebt.
NDIS has been invaluable in Vik's development as a young man. As Vik move into another phase of his life as a man over 25 years old he will continue to require support especially as he works towards his goal of independent living. We are grateful for the opportunities NDIS provides but watch with trepidation as changes to NDIS have impact. This includes the "impairment notice" that will be issued to Viktor to indicate his impairments. NDIA was always about potential growth but now it is about incapacity.
Bill Shorten Don Punch Katrina Stratton PhD, MBA Kate Chaney MP
Kate Chaney MP Don Punch MLA Bill Shorten Dr Katrina Stratton MLA
