Scheme lifechanger

CRANBOURNE’S James Plummer believes the National Disability Insurance Scheme could change his life.
James, who is confined to a wheelchair, was one of many audience members to pose questions at an NDIS forum at an overflowing Beaconsfield Neighbourhood Centre forum this week.
Senator Jan McLucas, the Parliamentary Secretary for Disabilities and Carers, joined La Trobe MP Laura Smyth at the forum for a robust discussion of the NDIS and its implications for the disabled.
The NDIS would create a Medicare-like reform of disability services.
“I think the scheme could be very good if it is done properly, I’m now wondering why we haven’t always had one,” James said.
“I will be able to do recreational things with a support worker… in ways that will allow me to be a more integrated person.”
Senator McLucas said the NDIS legislation, which will go before the Upper House next week, would enshrine in law that disabled people would be looked after.
“It’s very simple (and) that is the beauty of the system,” she said.
“The NDIS won’t fix all our problems we have overnight, but it will be a driver (for change).”
Questions were asked on various NDIS-related issues including the independent complaints process, transport assistance, house repairs, financial assistance and accommodation.
Disability service provider Outlook has been a strong advocate for the scheme, with chief executive Tony Fitzgerald delighted with the level of interest shown at the forum.
“As a service provider it was a really important meeting to hear from so many carers and people with disabilities,” he said.
Outlook has engaged the services of systematic advocate Tricia Malowney who said every Australian should be backing the NDIS scheme.
“It is not just people who have a disability now, but every Australian… we can all slip over in the bath,” she said.
Ms Smyth said the imminent arrival of the NDIS was a moment of genuine significance in her short parliamentary life.
“It affects quality of life, it’s not an abstract idea,” she said.
“It’s giving people a desire to do more with their lives.”
Anyone with questions about the NDIS can contact Tricia Malowney on 0400 640 624 or email tmalowney@gmail.com.