Media Release by Senator the Hon Linda Reynolds CSC

NDIA Board Chair appointment

Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) Senator the Hon Linda Reynolds CSC today announced the appointment of Dr Denis Napthine AO as Chair of the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) Board.

“Dr Napthine is an eminently qualified Australian with the passion, commitment, leadership and experience to ensure the NDIS continues to deliver on its promise to people with disability, their families and carers,” Minister Reynolds said.

“As Premier of Victoria in 2013, it was Dr Napthine that reached agreement with the Gillard Labor Government to establish the NDIS in his state. As the father of a son with disability, Dr Napthine also brings very personal lived experience to this crucial role.

“Through his work with local and regional disability services, which includes hands-on experience as a direct care provider, Dr Napthine has shown his commitment to making tangible improvements to the lives of people with disabilities.

In 2020, Dr Napthine was recognised with an Order of Australia for his service to the people and Parliament of Victoria, particularly as Premier, and to the broader community.

In addition to his role as Victoria’s Premier, Dr Napthine also served as the state’s Minister for Youth and Community Services, which included Disability Services.

“Dr Napthine has already been contributing to the success of the NDIS through his appointment to the NDIA Board in December of last year, demonstrating a strong commitment to this world-leading scheme.

Dr Napthine will serve a three-year term as Chair effective from 1 April 2022. Mr Jim Minto who has been acting Chair since 1 January 2022 will remain on the Board and continue his positive contribution to the NDIS.

“On behalf of the Government, I congratulate Dr Napthine on his appointment, and thank Mr Minto for his leadership of the NDIA Board over the past 3 months,” Minister Reynolds said.