Hannah Beazley pictured at Dumas House discussing the new commissioners stepping in at the City of Nedlands.
UPDATE: In a dramatic turn of events, Western Australia’s Disability Services Minister Hannah Beazley has garnered support from Premier Roger Cook as she considers boycotting an upcoming meeting with Federal officials over the NDIS reforms. The meeting, slated for next week, has sparked controversy as Beazley and several other State ministers push back against perceived limitations on their input.
Beazley is among a coalition of State ministers who have expressed outrage at the agenda presented by Federal Health Minister Mark Butler and NDIS Minister Jenny McAllister. They argue that the proposed schedule allows for only two minutes of speaking time for each jurisdiction—far too brief to address vital changes affecting the disability sector, including the introduction of the ambitious $2 billion Thriving Kids program.
In a joint letter co-signed by Beazley to Butler and McAllister, the ministers declared they could “no longer confirm our attendance” at the Disability Reform Ministerial Council meeting. They emphasized that limiting their speaking time was “not reasonable or acceptable,” and undermined the purpose of the forum meant to advocate for their communities.
Beazley stood firm on her stance, stating, “It’s a fair expectation of State Disability Services Ministers to be able to discuss matters on the key priority of Foundational Supports with the Commonwealth.” She reinforced the message that State and Territory Ministers are united in demanding that their voices are heard regarding the welfare of children with disabilities.
The urgency of this situation cannot be overstated. The proposed reforms are aimed at reshaping the NDIS system, a move that has caught many States by surprise since Butler announced changes in August. The Thriving Kids program is intended specifically for children aged eight and under with developmental delays and disabilities, as well as those with low to moderate support needs.
Premier Cook commented on the situation, acknowledging the disagreements without diving into specifics. “My understanding is that some of the concerns were around the lack of opportunity on the agenda for each of the Ministers to state their concerns or put forth their State’s issues,” he said. Cook underscored the importance of having a voice in the national forum, urging that these issues be resolved swiftly.
When pressed about his support for Beazley should she ultimately choose not to attend the meeting, Cook was resolute: “My ministers always have my full support.” This statement illustrates the growing tension between State and Federal authorities over critical issues affecting Australians with disabilities.
The stakes are high, as the Disability Reform Ministerial Council is tasked with addressing pressing matters resulting from the disability royal commission, ensuring provider viability, and tackling fraud and abuse within the NDIS. A spokesperson for Minister Butler stated, “People with disability across Australia expect States and the Commonwealth to get on with this important work.”
As the clock ticks down to the scheduled meeting, all eyes are on Beazley and her fellow ministers. Will they follow through with their boycott, or will a compromise be reached to ensure that critical discussions on disability reform can proceed? The outcome of this standoff is poised to have significant implications for the future of the NDIS and the support of vulnerable communities across Australia.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
