The abilityNEWS Daily
Editor’s Note
The television crews are lining Dunrossil Drive as they wait for the Prime Minister’s car to make the short trip from the Lodge to Yarralumla, where Anthony Albanese’s expected to ask the Governor General to call an election for 3 May.
As a result today’s edition of abilityNEWS will be a short one.
As the PM no doubt intended, his visit to the GG has completely overshadowed Opposition Leader Peter Dutton’s budget reply.
We will, of course, bring you all the news and information you need to know about the way disability issues are playing out in the election campaign over the coming weeks.
All the best,
Nic Stuart, editor
The Briefing
2025/26 Budget Reaction
by Advocacy for Inclusion
The 2025/26 Budget has sparked debate as policymakers, businesses and households assess its economic impact and fiscal priorities. Critics and supporters weigh in on key measures, including tax changes, spending allocations and long-term financial implications.
PWDA responds to Opposition Budget Reply: People with disability missing in action, cuts to NDIS workforce on the table
by People with Disability Australia
People with Disability Australia has criticised the Opposition Budget Reply for ignoring people with disability and raising concerns about NDIS workforce cuts. The organisation warns that public sector job reductions and ongoing uncertainty over NDIS funding could undermine essential services and disability rights.
Disabled young people forgotten in ‘cost-of-living’ budget
by Children and Young People with Disability Australia
Treasurer Jim Chalmers' budget prioritises cost-of-living relief but offers little specific support for disabled children and young people. Critics argue the measures fail to address financial hardship, education barriers, and gaps in essential disability services.
Join Our Pre-Election Forum: The Future of the NDIS with Senator Jordon Steele-John
by NDIS
With the election nearing, Every Australian Counts is hosting a forum with Senator Jordon Steele-John on the NDIS's future. Participants can hear commitments, discuss recent developments, and raise concerns in an interactive online session.
The Impact of the Budget for First Peoples with disability
by First Peoples Disability Network
The First Peoples Disability Network (FPDN) acknowledges the federal budget’s $365.4 million investment in foundational services for Indigenous Australians with disabilities. Concerns remain about ensuring these funds deliver meaningful improvements for those most in need.
Media Release: Federal Budget 2025–26
by Australian Federation of Disability Organisations
The Australian Federation of Disability Organisations acknowledges funding for disability initiatives in the Federal Budget but criticises the lack of structural reform. Key concerns include the absence of a dedicated Disability Inclusion Minister and failure to implement recommendations from the Disability Royal Commission.
People in poverty left high and dry in Federal cash splash
by ACTCOSS
The federal budget delivers tax cuts and energy rebates but neglects to raise JobSeeker payments, leaving those in poverty struggling. Critics argue the government prioritises tax breaks for high earners over meaningful support for low-income Australians.
The Wrap
Seven in 10 new NDIS participants are children
by Australian Financial Review
The article reports that 70% of new NDIS participants are under the age of 15, with the number of children covered nearly doubling original forecasts. This trend raises concerns about the sustainability of the scheme and suggests that current efforts to control its growth may be insufficient.