A Murray Bridge disability service provider says families could lose access to vital therapy if the federal government pushes ahead with changes to the NDIS.
The Federal Government’s up-coming Thriving Kids program will replace individual funding for autistic children and those with developmental delay with block-funded services. Critics say it removes choice and puts smaller community providers at risk.
Tina Bambury, director of P.L.A.Y. With a Purpose in Murray Bridge, says the change could slash her client base from about 15 children down to just two.
“It is causing an enormous amount of grief for many of my clients and families… the impacts on not just my business but the implications for so many people, allied health professionals and families and employers are far-reaching,” she said.
Bambury says regional families will be hardest hit, with many small providers likely to miss out on funding.
Advocates have launched a petition calling for the rollout to be halted, warning the program promotes behaviour change models that lack evidence of long-term safety.
The federal parliament is now running an inquiry into the Thriving Kids initiative, with submissions open until the 3rd of October and a community survey available until the 10th.
We have reached out to the Federal Government for a response.
More information on making a submission is available via the APH website.
Hear Tina Bambury’s chat with ARN’s Adam and Jennie via SoundCloud.
