Coalition's Additional Comments

1.1Coalition Senators note that while the majority of what is outlined in the report is reasonable, it would be remiss not to point out Minister Bill Shorten's inconsistencies regarding his stance on the National Disability Insurance Scheme. Before the election, Mr Shorten asserted the NDIS was sustainable in its existing form and promised that no cuts would be made to the scheme if he assumed the position of minister. However, since coming into power, he has seemingly shifted his narrative by consistently emphasising the financial challenges and describing the NDIS as unsustainable.

1.2This apparent contradiction calls into question the transparency and reliability of this government's political promises and its ability to make good on any of the recommendations outlined in the report. They point to the significant impact of the NDIS on individuals with disabilities and their families, highlighting the need for consistency and clarity in the political messaging.

1.3In opposition, Labor stood in the way of the Coalition's attempts to put the scheme on a sustainable footing. Bill Shorten even accused the Coalition of 'pearl-clutching kabuki theatre', claiming the NDIS was 'tracking just as predicted' and that the Coalition was 'hyping fictional cost blowouts'.

1.4Since then, the sustainability of the Scheme has been all Bill Shorten can talk about, increasing the uncertainty the more than 600,000 participants and their families must manage.

1.5The Coalition acknowledges the release of the long-awaited National Disability Insurance Scheme Independent Review report, the 10,000 people who shared their lived experience, the 4,000 formal submissions, the 26 recommendations and the 139 actions that aim to make the Scheme more sustainable for the future.

1.6The Opposition remains steadfast in our dedication to a NDIS that is responsive, efficient, and person oriented. The commitment to ensuring the NDIS operates sustainably and effectively while meeting the needs of its participants is a shared priority that should transcend all sides of politics.

Senator Hollie HughesSenator Dave SharmaMs Jenny Ware MP

Deputy ChairMemberMember