Don Farrell (SA, Australian Labor Party, Minister for Trade and Tourism) Share this | Hansard source

The government continues to reiterate its view that it cannot agree with this motion. We do, however, acknowledge the interest in the chamber in continuing to reform the NDIS to get it back on track and ensure its sustainability for future generations of Australians.

On 8 February 2024, the government tabled the final report of the Independent Review into the National Disability Insurance Scheme, which was publicly released on 7 December 2023. The review delivered 26 recommendations and 139 supporting actions to respond to its terms of reference. In delivering its recommendations, the review provided exhaustive analysis and proposals to improve the operation, effectiveness and sustainability of the NDIS. The independent NDIS review panel has said that its reforms can improve the scheme and meet National Cabinet's annual growth target of no more than eight per cent growth by 1 July 2026.

The NDIS bill was the first legislative step by this government towards ensuring this annual growth target is achieved. Our government will continue to make changes to improve the NDIS, including making sure that it delivers better, more consistent and fairer decisions, that it protects the safety and upholds the rights of participants and that every dollar allocated to NDIS participants reaches them and is spent in a meaningful way that makes a difference in their lives so that people with disability can continue to live with dignity and exercise control over their future through the scheme.

In relation to the order being discussed, the government has previously outlined that we have claimed public interest immunity over the requested documents, as disclosure would prejudice relations between the Commonwealth and the states and territories. The Minister representing the Treasurer has already tabled key documents for the benefit of the Senate, in addition to the aforementioned review.