Last quarter, 9.1% of the people who signed up for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) identified as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander.

This is the highest percentage in the history of the NDIS, the quarterly report noted. It is growth, but disability is twice as common for our people. So that means many of our mob are still not accessing support and services.

The Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability looked at some of the issues around disability for our people in its interim report.  This included the term ‘disability’ itself and compounded discrimination. It also considered other barriers to seeking support. The Royal Commission’s work continues, but it also acknowledged that a lack of culturally appropriate services and supports continues to be an issue. 

We couldn’t agree more. That’s why we started AuriHealth. Our culture is important. Culturally appropriate services and supports improve outcomes for our people.

The NDIS is about giving people with disability choice and control to live a full and meaningful life – including our mob. Right now in our communities, there are people who have registered for the NDIS, but don’t know how to use their Plan. Many more are yet to apply or don’t know how to apply. Our team is helping them.

We are pleased more people are signing up to the get the support they need, but let’s also keep some perspective and continue to encourage more of our mob to do the same.  

Get in touch today to find out how we can help you or someone you know.