Media Release by Senator the Hon Linda Reynolds CSC

Statement on Australian Foundation for Disability allegations

The allegations raised by the ABC about the Australian Foundation for Disability are very concerning.

“On becoming aware of these allegations, I contacted the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) Commissioner who confirmed that the Commission is looking into these matters,” Minister Reynolds said.

“All NDIS providers and their workers must abide by the NDIS Code of Conduct. If providers are required to be registered by the NDIS Commission, they must also comply with conditions of registration. This includes an obligation to act with integrity, honesty and transparency.”

Australians rightly expect NDIS providers to be held to the highest standard and provider behaviour that falls short can be subject to regulatory action by:

  • The NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission. The Commission is an independent agency established to improve the quality and safety of NDIS supports and services. The Commission actively regulates providers and promotes safety and quality services to people with disability in the NDIS.
  • The NDIS Fraud Taskforce is a multi-agency partnership between the Australian Federal Police (AFP), the National Disability Insurance Agency and Services Australia which focuses on high risk and serious fraud targeting the NDIS. Although fraud is not alleged in this instance, the NDIS Fraud Taskforce plays an important role in the integrity of the NDIS.

Anyone who wants to make a complaint about the conduct of an NDIS provider or worker can contact the NDIS Commission on 1800 035 544.