Budget 2017: Scott Morrison moved by brother-in-law Gary Warren’s MS struggle

An emotional Scott Morrison has spoken of his brother-in-law, who has multiple sclerosis and ­relies on the NDIS.

Gary and Michelle Warren with Scott Morrison in Canberra. Picture: Kym Smith

An emotional Scott Morrison opened his post-budget address to the National Press Club by telling the story of his brother-in-law, who has multiple sclerosis and ­relies on assistance from the ­National Disability Insurance Scheme.

The government announced an extra 0.5 per cent Medicare Levy from 2019 to fully fund the NDIS.

Gary Warren, the brother of the Treasurer’s wife Jenny, and his wife Michelle, were visibly moved as Mr Morrison spoke of how Mr Warren was diagnosed with progressive MS as a young firefighter in 1999.

“His oldest son at that time was just eight years old,” Mr Morrison said. “The youngest son had not been born.”

Mr Warren continued his very physical role with the fire brigade for five years, and later continued to work there in a training role.

“He has sought to work every single day from then until now,” Mr Morrison said.

He said Mr Warren had told him Australians were extremely generous towards him, as someone with a disability.

“Not just happy to help, but keen to help,” Mr Morrison said.

“(Gary) said, ‘it’s not flash being disabled, it’s not flash. But if there’s anything good about it, he said, it’s that you’re disabled in Australia.’

“I don’t know a finer man than Gary Warren, so last night I was very proud to declare that as a Treasurer in the Turnbull government, we would fully fund the ­National Disability Insurance Scheme. That’s what this is about.”

Mr Morrison said the government was asking Australians to “chip in” for a compassionate cause.

“When the unfunded component of the NDIS starts (in 2019), that’s when we will ask Australians to come to the table and share with all of us to ensure that this program can be delivered,” he said.

“Australians look after their mates.”