Productivity Commission Draft Report into long term disability care and support

The Australian Government has welcomed the Productivity Commission’s draft report released as part of its inquiry into care and support for people with disability.

The Minister for Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs Jenny Macklin said the Government understood a major rethink was needed and had tasked the Productivity Commission with undertaking the inquiry into the costs, benefits and feasibility of a national long term care and support scheme for people with disability.

“We know people with disability are often some of the most disadvantaged people in our nation today and we must do more for these Australians,” Ms Macklin said.

“I encourage all those with an interest in this area to provide comment on this draft report to the Productivity Commission to help inform the final report.

“We know that major change does not come quickly and easily. There are barriers to change, such as a very complicated system, and a limited workforce.”

The Government will carefully consider the Productivity Commission’s final report when it is delivered in July.

Parliamentary Secretary for Disabilities and Carers said any major change made to the disability care and support system must be sustainable.

“It must provide better opportunities for people with disability and their carers to fully participate in our community, including in the workplace,” Senator McLucas said.

The Assistant Treasurer Bill Shorten said any change must also be financially sustainable.

“Any major change to the system needs to be sustainable and affordable to meet the needs of people with disability right into the future.” Mr Shorten said.

All Australians are encouraged to read the draft report and provide feedback on the draft recommendations.

The draft report may be found at Productivity Commission website and people wanting to contribute to the next stage of consultations can do so by visiting the Disability Care and Support page