NDIA Denies Reform Link After Participant Loses Support Funding

The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) has denied that recent funding cuts to a participant in the Hunter region are related to proposed government reforms. A 25-year-old man living with autism, ADHD, depression, and anxiety reported that his support was reduced from approximately three hours daily to five hours per week in June. The cuts included the total removal of funding for his psychologist and support coordinator.

The participant alleges the agency based these decisions on outdated 2024 reports and refused to accept updated assessments from 2026. While the participant was told the reductions were linked to NDIS reforms, the NDIA maintains that funding fluctuations are a normal part of the planning process as participant needs change over time.

These events coincide with the Australian Parliament passing a bill containing amendments to the scheme. NDIS Minister Jenny McAllister stated the government is establishing a new plan variation pathway to safeguard participants with high support needs, particularly those requiring 24-hour care. Conversely, Greens senator Jordon Steele-John warned that the legislation would cut supports that enable disabled people to access the community.