NDIS Minister Bill Shorten has expressed optimism that the Senate will pass a bill designed to reform the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) within the next two weeks. 

The bill, which seeks to address the escalating costs of the $44 billion-a-year scheme, was introduced in March but has faced significant delays.

The legislation, which aims to curb the growth of the NDIS by $14.4 billion over four years, was delayed in the Senate after the Coalition and the Greens joined forces to postpone the vote until after the midwinter break. 

This delay, according to Mr Shorten, could cost taxpayers $1 billion.

Appearing on Sky News, Mr Shorten appeared cautiously optimistic about the bill’s future, stating that while he was “hopeful” and “positive”, he was not entirely certain that the opposition would support the bill in its current form. 

“The Senate is the master of its own destiny. If it makes amendments, then they’ll have to come back to the House of Representatives, but if we all focus on the best interests of participants and getting rid of the rorts, then I think we will get there,” he said. 

The bill has been met with criticism for its lack of detail on how the proposed spending cuts will be achieved. 

Despite this, Mr Shorten said he remains hopeful that the bill will pass without further significant delays.

Central to the controversy is a draft list of NDIS supports released by the government as part of the “Getting the NDIS Back on Track No 1” bill. 

This list outlines which supports will and will not be funded under the NDIS, raising concerns among disability advocates. 

The draft has been criticised for potentially excluding important supports like psychology and counselling services, specialised driving lessons, and sensory regulating devices such as noise-cancelling headphones. 

Critics argue that these exclusions could negatively impact NDIS participants, particularly those with complex needs.

As the government seeks public feedback on the proposed changes, disability advocacy groups have urged participants to voice their concerns. 

The consultation process, which closes this week, has been criticised for its broad approach, with advocates calling for more targeted consultation with those directly impacted by the scheme. 

Interested parties can give feedback directly to DSS by: 

  • Completing the DSS online survey

  • Emailing DSS via This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

  • Requesting a callback on 1300 653 227

  • Sending feedback to DSS by post at NDIS Consultations, GPO Box 9820, Canberra ACT 260