Tesch seeks submissions on disability scheme

Member for Gosford Ms Liesl Tesch has encouraged residents in her electorate impacted by the National Disability Insurance Scheme to make submissions to a new parliamentary inquiry.

According to Ms Tesch, the NSW Opposition secured a parliamentary inquiry into the implementation of the Scheme and the provision of disability services in NSW.

She said there was concern within the community that people were struggling to access the services that they needed.

"I have had many local people who suffer from a disability, as well as carers and loved ones, raise with me the significant difficulty they are having with navigating the system," Ms Tesch said.

"While the Scheme is a transformational initiative for people with a disability, unfortunately its implementation has impacted negatively on too many," she said.

"The feedback received across the state indicates that people are experiencing delays in accessing and altering Scheme plans, late or non-payment of invoices, inconsistent funding plans, a poorly supported workforce and people with complex conditions are being denied access to the scheme."

It is estimated that more than 80 per cent of people with a disability in NSW will not qualify for the Scheme, she said.

"I am concerned that there are gaps in services and local families are suffering as a result," Ms Tesch said.

"I strongly encourage local families who have concerns about the implementation of the Scheme and the provision of disability services in NSW to make their voices heard and participate in the inquiry," Ms Tesch said.

For further information about the inquiry's terms of reference and how to make a submission visit the inquiry web page at parliament.nsw.gov.au/committees/inquiries/Pages/inquiry-details.aspx?pk=2496.

Submissions close 9 August 2018.

SOURCE:

Media release, 24 Jul 2018

Emma Murphy, Office of Liesl Tesch MP