SENATOR THE HON ANNE RUSTON

SHADOW MINISTER FOR DISABILITY AND THE NDIS

PHIL THOMPSON MP

ASSISTANT SHADOW MINISTER FOR THE NDIS

MEDIA RELEASE

20 AUGUST 2025

NDIS REFORM PLANS BIG ON RHETORIC, LIGHT ON DETAIL

The Coalition acknowledges the Government's promises to deliver further NDIS reforms but calls on the Government to move beyond words and now deliver real, practical action for people with disability, their families and the Australian community.

While Labor's NDIS changes passed Parliament last August, that was only the first step. Australians with disability, their families and the sector deserve certainty, not more confusion and delay.

Promises are not enough; it is the delivery that matters.

NDIS reform must be guided by strong clinical advice and a clear commitment to long-term budget sustainability, so that the Scheme remains fit for purpose for generations to come.

The Coalition will work constructively on sensible NDIS reforms, including its currently unsustainable growth rate, to secure the Scheme's future. This is in contrast to Labor's record in opposition of politicising NDIS reform for short-term political gain.

The Minister said that the NDIS cannot stand alone and requires a broader ecosystem of disability support to remain sustainable.

Too often, Labor makes announcements but fails on delivery.

There is still no agreement with the States and Territories on vital NDIS reforms in relation to foundational supports. Further to this, the States and Territories will carry much of the responsibility for broader disability and educational support services for children in particular under the Minister's plans.

Australians deserve certainty, not more headlines.

The Coalition is especially concerned about Australians in rural, regional and remote areas, who already face significant barriers in accessing disability services. Workforce shortages across the care sector remain the greatest obstacle for equity of access, and the Government must urgently act to ensure Australians can receive support no matter where they live.

The Coalition will continue to hold the Government to account, ensuring Australians living with disability receive the services they need.

We remain committed to working in good faith with people living with disability, scheme participants, their families, and support and health providers to ensure the NDIS is sustainable and true to its purpose into the future.

[ENDS]