Premier Warns States Cannot Replace NDIS Services
NSW Premier Chris Minns has cautioned that state governments will be unable to provide equivalent services for individuals who are removed from the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).
Speaking ahead of an announcement by Health Minister Mark Butler, Minns voiced support for reforming the NDIS while acknowledging the program's substantial cost.
"Reform is difficult, and I’m not going to throw sand in the gears of the federal government ... I think that they’re grappling with an issue that, if I were in their shoes, I’d be doing the same thing."
However, the Premier drew a firm line on the capacity of state systems to absorb participants leaving the NDIS. He stated clearly:
"We can’t provide the kinds of services ... in the state system that are currently being provided by the NDIS. There’s not a substitute effect. It’s not possible for us to do it."
Minns emphasized that states will not be able to offer "like-for-like services" if individuals are removed from the scheme, underscoring a significant gap in the potential transition of care.