The Greens are strongly urging the government to be a voice for Tasmanians with disabilities.
We call on Premier Rockliff and Minister Palmer to attend upcoming hearings on the National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Getting the NDIS Back on Track No. 1) Bill 2024. The proposed amendments to the NDIS could significantly reduce access to essential services for Tasmanians with disabilities.
These hearings present a perfect forum for the State Government to advocate for the needs and rights of the 26% of Tasmanians living with disabilities.
Federal concerns from both the Greens and the Liberal party have led to the Bill being referred to a Community Affairs Legislation Committee inquiry. It is vital that the voices of Tasmanians are heard at this inquiry. All state and Territory Governments have an opportunity to provide evidence, with hearings scheduled on the 24th and 25th of July.
The Liberal government have often pointed the finger at federal Labor over NDIS funding failing to adequately support key disability services in our state. If the Rockliff government are serious about lobbying Labor for a better deal, then now is their chance.
Off the back of key disability services losing their federal funding, now is the time for the state government to push for a better deal for people living with disabilities in Tasmania.
With key disability rights legislation about to hit the floor of parliament, a failure to attend would signal loudly the true priorities of this government. The Premier and Minister Palmer have this chance to prove they are willing to fight to protect the rights of Tasmanians with a disability. The Greens urge them to follow through.
