[Greens-Media] Greens pursue WA’s NDIS hold-out in Senate Estimates

[Redman, Chris (Sen R. Siewert)]

29 May 2013

Greens pursue WA’s NDIS hold-out in Senate Estimates


The Australian Greens say the WA and Federal Governments should engage with the community and experts in an attempt to solve the impasse over DisabilityCare.

“In questioning to the Human Rights Commission in Senate Estimates today, it is clear that there is strong support for the NDIS to become a truly national program, but WA continues to hold out,” Senator Rachel Siewert, Australian Greens spokesperson on disabilities said today.

“Disability Discrimination Commissioner Graeme Innes told today’s Estimates hearing that it would be ‘very disappointing’ if this national scheme couldn’t be rolled out across Australia.

“Mr Innes also identified the fact that it seems philosophical issues not financial issues that are the problem.

“WA’s involvement in the NDIS is important for delivering better outcomes for people with disability, families and carers alike.

“There are a range of experts across the sector, along with community members and people with disability who have a very clear understanding of why the NDIS is so important for addressing the unmet needs that currently exist in WA.

“Mr Innes has signalled his willingness to become engaged in this process, and I am sure people in the sector feel the same.

“The WA Premier should to listen to the community and the experts and make sure our state is part of this national scheme from the outset,” Senator Siewert concluded.