Tune review maps positive path for NDIS

The review of the NDIS Act, conducted by David Tune AO PSM, was released today. It contains 29 recommendations aimed at improving the operation of the NDIS for participants, families, carers and providers.National Disability Services (NDS) is pleased to see recommendations that address some of the challenges all parties have agreed need attention in order for the Scheme to reach its potential.The report makes several recommendations for improving decision making and process timeframes, including for participant eligibility, support access and plan reviews. “The recommended timelines will provide greater certainty for people with disability who are participants in the Scheme about when they can expect decisions. To ensure better and more transparent accountability, we hope the Government implements the recommended performance reporting against the timelines,” said NDS CEO, David Moody.Providing a clearer definition of what are ‘reasonable and necessary’ supports; clarifying what is funded through the NDIS; what remains the responsibility of other systems; and recognising the informal supports for children being provided by parents and carers, are all recommendations which NDS welcomes.NDS is also encouraged to see specific recommendations that will reduce bureaucracy. These include the NDIA having the ability to amend a plan without the need for a whole new plan to be developed. Implementing this recommendation will save service provider administration time and costs.NDS also supports the recommendation that participants who ‘plan manage’ their NDIS funding should be subject to the same requirements as those who seek to self-manage their funding, as this will improve safeguards.”Other recommendations, including real action to provide clarity, reduce administrative red-tape, reduce time frames for plan reviews, and greater support for participants to navigate the scheme will benefit participants as well as service providers,” Mr Moody said. “We’re very encouraged by the findings and recommendations made by the Tune Review. These changes will move the NDIS closer to the original vision for the Scheme, one of people with disability consistently receiving fair and appropriate support to lead ordinary lives. “We’ll now look forward to the Government’s response, and will work with the NDIA and providers to ensure the changes improve the Scheme’s operation as intended.”