Stuart Robert (Fadden, Liberal Party, Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme) Share this | Hansard source

On 30 September this year the number of AAT applications represented 0.4 per cent of the total number of participants. As a percentage, it's exactly the same as last year—0.4 per cent. Whilst the total number has increased over the last few years, the growth has aligned with the growth in the number of participants in the scheme. The total number of AAT applications increased from 1,220 in 2018-19 to 1,780 in 2019-20, again largely in line with the growth of the NDIS. Of the 4,319 cases received by the NDIA since scheme inception, 3,356 have resolved prior to a contested hearing, 890 remain open and 73 went on to receive a substantial decision of the AAT. Of cases resolved, 65 per cent were resolved by agreement, 33 per cent were withdrawn by the applicant or dismissed, and two per cent were resolved by a contested hearing.

With respect to the first question the member asked, as a general rule we don't comment on AAT cases. However, if information is brought into the public domain and it needs further clarification, we'll do so, and I believe the case the member has made has been brought into the public domain, not in here but outside. Accordingly, a letter to the editor was sent from Mr Martin Hoffman, the CEO of the NDIA. I'll read part of that: 'Mr Lawrence Laikind submitted an AAT request to review a decision regarding home modifications to his property. He is represented by a senior counsel and junior counsel. The proposed work to Mr Laikind's backyard included a request for a personal boat pontoon, extensions to a pool deck, related landscaping and the rebuilding of a retaining wall. The estimated cost of this work was more than $200,000. This request was denied, on the basis that Mr Laikind's request did not meet the criteria under section 34 of the NDIS Act and therefore is not reasonable and necessary support to be funded by the taxpayer. The NDIA is committed to ensuring participants receive their reasonable and necessary disability related supports and that the scheme remains equitable and sustainable for all participants now and into the future.'

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