DSDSATSIP210 Research Partnerships Synthesis Report

• Main Authors: Kendall, Elizabeth, Hanley, Janis, Campbell, Shawna, Ahmed, Tahera
• Format: Report
• Language: unknown
• Published: Griffith University 2023
• Subjects: Queensland; First Nations
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/10072/427648; https://doi.org/10.25904/1912/5117

Queensland's investment in disability services has experienced significant growth from 2016 to 2020, with annual expenditure tripling during this period. The commitment to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) in Queensland now surpasses $4 billion per year. This funding is divided evenly between the Queensland Government and the Australian Government, showcasing a joint effort to support individuals with disability. The NDIS serves over 125,000 Queenslanders who have approved plans. Additionally, there are 137,000 participants with NDIS access who meet the access requirements but do not yet have an active plan. Notably, children aged 0-6 constitute the largest group without an active plan, accounting for 30% of the total. Queensland's diverse and geographically dispersed population creates some challenges for the NDIS. Notably, there is a gender imbalance in NDIS participation, with only 39% of women and girls accessing the scheme compared to 61% of men and boys. This disparity is most noticeable among children aged 0- 6, where 69% are male and only 31% are female. However, this gender imbalance gradually evens out until reaching parity in the 45-64 age group. Several other distinguishing features of Queensland's NDIS include a relatively higher proportion of First Nations participants receiving their first plan and a lower prevalence of certain disabilities, such as autism and sensory impairments, within First Nations communities. Moreover, one-third of NDIS participants reside in socio-economically disadvantaged areas, raising concerns about housing availability, poverty awareness among NDIS providers, and the impact of social disadvantage on accessing and navigating the NDIS process. The NDIS has had a positive impact on the lives of approximately 80% of Queensland participants, improving social participation for around 70%, and enhancing the well-being of about 60% of participants. Over three-quarters of participants reported better support in daily living activities, a significant improvement ...