The abilityNEWS Daily
Author’s Note
It might have been because of the coming election, or perhaps it was just because the review into Art & Music therapy was overwhelmed with supportive submissions. For whatever reason, Dr Stephen Duckett’s had his reporting deadline extended by a couple of weeks until April 17.
Now we’re just waiting to see if the election will be held on May 3rd, 10th or 17th. For what it’s worth, our bet is it will be the 10th . . .
Best, Nic Stuart
The Briefing
Art and music therapy (courtesy Dr Chi Lo)
Review into music and art therapy update
by NDIS
A review into the effectiveness of music and art therapy is progressing, examining their impact on emotional and psychological well-being. Authorities are assessing how these therapies support mental health and whether further integration into healthcare is warranted.
Advocacy efforts lead to changes in NDIS Eligibility Assessments
by Disability Advocacy Network Australia
Disability groups pressured the NDIA to extend the deadline for eligibility reassessments from 28 to 90 days. A tribunal case highlighted concerns about sudden support termination, prompting further calls for transparency and procedural fairness.
Reimagining The World Through Design - Melanie Tran on Innovation, Inclusion, and Impact
by Cerebral Palsy Alliance
Melanie Tran explores how inclusive design can drive innovation and social impact, reshaping the world for greater accessibility and equality. Her work challenges conventional approaches, advocating for design that prioritises diverse experiences and empowers underrepresented communities.
Capacity Building Supports budget: Improving health and wellbeing
by NDSP Plan Managers
Improved Health & Wellbeing is a National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) budget category focused on enhancing functional capacity through therapeutic supports. It includes services like dietetics and exercise physiology but does not cover everyday costs such as gym memberships or food.
Deafblind tips 21 – Blind seating for sporting events
by Deafblind Australia
Deafblind Victoria member Robert Lokmer attended the Australian Open with discounted tickets and priority seating close to the court. He shared his experience of enjoying the matches despite visual challenges and navigating transport delays after the late-night event.
Pre-budget Submission: Now is the time to reinforce and build on solid foundations
by Disability Advocacy Network Australia
The Federal Government's delayed funding for disability advocacy groups threatens essential services as NDIS plans are reduced. DANA urges immediate investment to safeguard advocacy networks during the transition to Foundational Supports.
The Wrap
How the NDIS is wasting millions
by Daily Telegraph
Mark Toomey's 35-year-old son Geoff suffered a spontaneous brain haemorrhage 10 years ago, which destroyed half his brain. Every year Geoff is asked to provide medical reports to re-prove his disability. Even though these reports are written by clinical specialists, they're often dismissed or ignored by NDIS staff, forcing them to get more. Mark estimates all these reports showing his “unchanging diabilities” over the last 10 years have cost taxpayers around $200,000.