Impact of NDIS on Victorian disability advocacy sector project

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) has transformed the way disability services are delivered in Victoria. Since its introduction, Victorian disability advocacy and self-advocacy organisations have been struggling to meet growing demand for their services. To better understand the challenges they are facing, the Institute collaborated with VCOSS on a research project exploring the impact of the NDIS on the Victorian Disability Advocacy Sector. We found that the introduction of the NDIS has led to a sustained increase in demand for advocacy and self-advocacy services that has not been adequately supported by additional resourcing. This issue has been exacerbated by confusion around the roles and responsibilities of advocates, with many being expected to perform tasks outside their remit.

The Institute provided recommendations for NDIA, Commonwealth and Victorian Governments and the Victorian disability advocacy sector to address systemic issues identified in the research. We also provided research findings to the Disability Advocacy Resource Unit (DARU) and the Self Advocacy Resource Unit (SARU) to support the development of new resources and tools to alleviate pressure arising from increased NDIS related activities.