In March, we submitted a response to the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission, advocating for the mandatory registration of Supported Independent Living (SIL) providers. We strongly believe that all SIL providers should be registered to ensure they meet high-quality, safety and human rights standards – and that these standards are regularly monitored. We also recommended that the Commission prioritise accessible outreach and support for residents of congregate housing, working to improve standards and oversight in these settings. Read our full submission.
We’ve also been supporting other Disability Representative Organisations (DROs) on important initiatives. For example, the Australian Autism Alliance is pushing for a national framework for assistance animals. Currently, the NDIA guidelines exclude vital animals, such as epilepsy seizure dogs and PTSD support animals, from funding. We’re calling for a national, consistent approach to regulating and accrediting assistance animals.
The DSA Consortium has also endorsed Inclusion Australia’s submission on self-directed supports registration. While we support the registration of self-directed support providers, we’re concerned about the automatic categorisation of higher-risk supports under the Advanced Registration category, particularly in cases involving restrictive practices and behaviour support.
Finally, on 25 March, the Federal Government released its 2025-26 Budget. Alongside other DROs, the DSA Consortium raised concerns about the lack of investment in people with disability. The budget proposes significant cuts to the NDIS and leaves many questions unanswered about how ongoing support for people with disability will be provided. In crucial areas such as cost-of-living measures, housing strategy and income support, people with disability are largely overlooked. We need a clear, inclusive plan to ensure that no one is left behind. Read our full statement.
