States on edge about NDIS cuts as Chalmers flags they will be ‘easily the most important’ part of budget savings
Summary
The Australian government plans to reduce spending on the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) to control its rapid growth. Officials from different states have expressed concerns about these cuts and their impact on the program and state budgets ahead of detailed announcements in a national speech.Key Facts
- Treasurer Jim Chalmers said NDIS cuts will be the main part of the upcoming budget savings.
- Health Minister Mark Butler will explain changes to the NDIS growth rate in a speech to the National Press Club.
- States are worried about the size of the changes and possible new costs they might face.
- Western Australia, representing states, has raised concerns about structural changes to the NDIS.
- The government plans a new national scheme called Thriving Kids for children with autism and developmental delays, replacing some state programs.
- The NDIS budget is $52 billion and grew over 10% last year; it could reach $63 billion by 2028-29.
- The government wants to slow growth of NDIS spending to 5-6% annually.
- Labor rules out introducing means testing for the NDIS but may tighten rules for service providers to improve quality and compliance.
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