The NDIA recently released its Annual Report for 2017-18. This report definitely put a positive spin on achievements and there is always more than a little bit of data burying. Nevertheless, the data they provide gives a vital insight into how the Scheme is actually performing.
THE FEEL-GOOD STATS
It is easy to get caught up in what is going wrong with the NDIS and the magnitude of the problems we face. No statistic should be used to dismiss the real stress and grief that the Scheme has caused many people with disability and their families. But it is also important, for our own sanity, to remember that there are also some things that are going right. Here are some examples for the annual outcomes’ framework questionnaire:
• 91% of parents of children between 0-6 believe the NDIS has helped their child’s development.
• 82% of parents of children between 0-6 believe it has increased their child’s ability to communicate their needs.
• 69% of parents of children between 7-14 believe the NDIS had improved their child’s ability to develop and learn. It is interesting to note the difference between this and the 0-6 aged group. This makes a strong case for early intervention.
• 71% of Participants over 25 said the NDIS had helped them with activities of daily living.
NON-BLOWOUT
Just a timely reminder that the ‘NDIS blowouts’, which we keep hearing about in the press is completely fake news. This year the Scheme came in under budget, as it has every other year since its inception. Moreover, projections show that it is likely to remain within the Productivity Commission’s estimates in the coming years.
INDEPENDENT PRICING REVIEW
The review report includes interesting information about the impact that the recommendations from the Independent Pricing Review (IPR) have had on providers. Apparently, changes implemented so far have improved providers’ margins by 2-4%. Margins are even higher in rural areas, and for providers working with people with complex support needs. infrastructure.
– Jacques Stap
Chief Executive Officer