Gerard Brody, Chair of the Consumer Federation of Australia, has examined the consumer issues about the NDIS, in collaboration with DANA and a range of other disability representative organisations, for a submission to the NDIS Review.
In his submission to the NDIS Review, Gerard Brody explores the critical issues facing NDIS consumers, the role of Australian Consumer Law, and the need for independent advocacy organisations to protect the rights and interests of people with disabilities.
The NDIS as a Marketplace
The NDIS was designed with the intention of empowering people with disabilities by treating them as consumers in a marketplace for disability supports. While this approach aims to provide choice and control, it raises questions about whether these consumers are adequately protected from unscrupulous service providers, unfair contractual agreements, or the non-delivery of expected supports.
Australian Consumer Law and the NDIS
One of the central questions Brody’s submission addresses is whether Australian Consumer Law effectively safeguards the rights of NDIS consumers. The NDIS operates within a unique framework, and it’s crucial to determine how existing consumer protection laws apply to this context. Brody’s research aims to shed light on gaps and challenges within the system.
The Role of Disability Advocacy Organisations
When individuals with disabilities encounter issues related to their NDIS plans, they often turn to independent disability advocacy organisations for assistance. However, the current complaints system frequently falls short in addressing these specific issues, leaving consumers without the support they need. Furthermore, there is a noticeable absence of systemic advocacy organisations dedicated solely to addressing NDIS consumer issues.
Summary:
In his discussion paper, Gerard Brody thoroughly examines the need for change within the NDIS.
He explores potential solutions to the challenges faced by consumers, including the establishment of a more effective complaints and monitoring system.
This system, if implemented, would hold NDIS providers accountable for the services they deliver and ensure that the rights and interests of people with disabilities are protected.
Consumer policy response to the NDIS Review, "What we have heard" report
Head over to our submissions page to read the full submission.
The submission has also been highlighted in an article by The Guardian