Australia’s National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is facing sustainability challenges due to a significant number of children experiencing developmental delays, learning difficulties, or disabilities. Professor Bruce Bonyhady, co-chair of the NDIS review panel, has raised concerns about the scheme’s ability to support these children effectively. The review, which is set to report to state and federal ministers in October, is calling for urgent action to address the growing demand for developmental support outside the NDIS.
Developmental delay refers to children who demonstrate slower development in various areas compared to their peers, such as communication, physical abilities, social skills, emotional growth, and cognitive functions. The causes of developmental delays can vary, including genetic conditions and environmental challenges.
Statistics show that around 20% of Australian children under the age of five experience developmental delays, learning difficulties, or disabilities. This figure includes both NDIS participants and children not covered by the scheme. Recent data from the Australian Early Development Census indicates a slight decline in the number of children who are developmentally on track, as well as an increase in those who are developmentally vulnerable in at least one area.
The fragmented nature of health and disability systems across state, territory, and Commonwealth levels has hindered a comprehensive understanding of the scale of children facing developmental challenges. The NDIS, while shedding light on the percentage of children with delays, was initially designed to supplement existing systems and provide additional support for children with severe disability impacts.
To address the support gap, a unified effort is needed across government systems beyond the NDIS. It is crucial to provide support to children and families in their everyday environments, such as their homes, childcare centers, kindergartens, and local communities. Focusing on these natural contexts can strengthen protective factors that enhance child development, including community connection and parental empowerment.
While the NDIS has had a significant impact and benefited many Australians, including children with disabilities, its future success depends on effective support for children with developmental delays through alternate channels. By accommodating the specific needs of these children and their families, the NDIS can continue to be a life-changing system that complements and enhances existing support structures.
As the NDIS review approaches completion, it is essential to re-evaluate and re-calibrate the scheme to meet the developmental support requirements of children across Australia. Taking a balanced approach that combines the strengths of health, education, and disability systems will pave the way for sustainable and inclusive support for all children with developmental delays. Collaborative efforts are necessary to ensure that every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential.
