Submissions

While QAMH fundamentally supports efforts to protect participant safety and rights through appropriate oversight, the proposed legislative reforms to strengthen the NDIS Commission’s regulatory powers must be considered within a challenging sector context. Recent data shows 80% of providers report concerns about continuing to provide NDIS services at current prices, while facing a high existing compliance burden.

The sector already experiences significant challenges in meeting current service demand, with over 493,600 Australians lacking access to needed psychosocial supports. Before implementing major regulatory reforms, careful consideration must be given to addressing underlying systemic issues in pricing and support to ensure any changes enhance rather than restrict service availability. This is particularly crucial for rural and remote areas where service viability is already precarious and alternative support options are limited. QAMH advocates for a balanced approach that strengthens both safeguarding and sector sustainability.