Opinion: Devastating NDIS change latest blow to regional recipients

Buried deep in the latest NDIS report is a change that will be devastating for some recipients, writes Michelle Landry.

This week, the federal Labor government delivered another blow to Australians living with disability in the regions.

Buried deep in the National Disability Insurance Agency’s Annual Pricing Review is a devastating change that slashes travel reimbursements for allied health professionals by 50 per cent.

Under Recommendation 12, it no longer matters if a provider drives two hours or 20 minutes, the rebate is the same. That may work in the suburbs of Melbourne, but in regions like Capricornia, it’s a disaster.

The NDIA might call this efficiency, but in reality it’s a direct hit to regional Australians.

Labor’s decision makes it financially unsustainable for providers to keep servicing rural and remote communities.

There’s no doubt the NDIS has been targeted by unscrupulous operators rorting the system and that must be addressed. However, in the process, providers who are doing the right thing are being punished for the greed and misconduct of others.

The consequences are already unfolding. One long-time health provider has already confirmed they will no longer travel to outlying towns. Why? Because they would be forced to operate at a loss, making travel to these communities financially unviable.

The result of this recommendation is heartbreaking but predictable: fewer visits, fewer services and people with disability left with nowhere to turn.

This is not a policy tweak. This is a wrecking ball taken to disability care in the bush. In regional Australia, allied health professionals are lifelines. They already drive long distances and face higher costs to reach people who desperately need their help.

Punishing them for going the distance isn’t reform – it’s neglect.

Labor talks a big game on inclusion and fairness but their actions tell another story.

With this decision, they’ve created a two-tiered system where your access to disability support depends on your postcode.

Let’s be clear. Eight per cent of NDIS participants live outside metropolitan areas. They already face longer wait times and fewer choices. This move widens the divide and sends a chilling message: if you live in the regions, your care doesn’t count.

This policy strips dignity and opportunity from some of our most vulnerable. It shows how out-of-touch Labor has become with life outside the capitals. Regional Australians living with disability deserve a government that backs them, not one that cuts them off.

Michelle Landry is LNP federal Member for Capricornia