Agreeing on further NDIS launch sites would signify the triumph of public interest over politics

27 July 2012

National Disability Services is delighted that Victoria and NSW are likely to join with three other States and Territories in hosting NDIS launch sites.

Difficult negotiations between the Commonwealth and the Victorian and NSW governments seem set to reach a happy conclusion.

Victoria has agreed to commit an additional $17 million over three years and a once-off payment of $25 million.  This meets the Commonwealth's request for an additional contribution of money from the State.  The Victorian launch site will be located in the Barwon Region.

Negotiations with the NSW Government over what should be a fifth launch site in the Hunter Region have not yet concluded; but the NSW Government has offered an additional $35 million over three years, signifying a willingness to reach agreement.

To have five States and Territories hosting launch sites would provide a strong platform to establish the NDIS nationwide, as well as rigorously testing and refining the NDIS policy settings.

NDS congratulates the political leaders on the progress they have made and looks forward to further negotiations with NSW reaching a positive outcome.  Progress has depended, as the Prime Minister herself indicated, on putting aside political differences and focusing on the interests not just of people with disability and their families but of all Australians who will ultimately benefit from having an NDIS.

Contact:
Ken Baker, Chief Executive, NDS National, Ph 02 6283 3200, ken.baker@nds.org.au