Decisions about who is funded under the scheme, and to what extent, are generally made behind closed doors, with limited information available to the public and individuals about the basis for decisions by the National Disability Insurance Agency and the outcome of appeals.
Without this information, decisions can be difficult to challenge. And for those who do decide to appeal, difficulty getting legal assistance can make it hard to mount an effective case, particularly for people who have trouble navigating complex processes, or whose cases do not raise complex or novel legal issues.
There is also a lack of publicly available information about appeal outcomes, especially for the large number of cases that settle prior to hearing. Having access to this information would help develop principles for decision-making and assist with driving systemic improvements.
We are focused on addressing this lack of transparency and accountability, with the goal of equipping people with disability and advocates with information to fully exercise choice and control under the NDIS.
How we will create change
This project seeks to establish principles that can be applied consistently to ensure that applicants and appellants are treated fairly and get the support they need, no matter where they live or what their circumstances. We will also seek to improve the transparency and accountability of the NDIA’s decision-making processes.
We will employ a range of strategies, including:
- Representing individuals in cases of strategic importance
- Collaborating with disability advocates and groups, as well as other stakeholders
- Raising issues in public debate, including in the media
- Political engagement