IAC meeting bulletin, 25 June 2026
The Independent Advisory Council (IAC) met online on 25 June 2026. At the meeting, they discussed:
What they have heard in their communities
The IAC’s ‘Home and Living’ and ‘Justice’ advice
Supported Independent Living commissioning
Principal Member Leah van Poppel led the meeting.
What Members have heard in their communities
Members reported a change in general community feelings about the Agency and Scheme. Sentiment around the NDIS is shifting, with many in the wider community seeing it as a financial burden. They also shared observations and concerns about how media reporting and public discussions about fraud within the NDIS are negatively impacting the public perception of the NDIS and participants. This is having a real impact on participants and their families.
Members asked what the Agency was doing to help shift this feeling through its communications.
The Agency noted that part of its function is to build community awareness and provide education about the Scheme. It said the IAC can help by giving advice on how the Agency can improve communications and educate the community about the NDIS.
The Agency’s work on fraud and integrity ensures it prevents offenders taking funding from participants. The Agency feels much of the media’s reporting does not include important details.
Members highlighted ongoing community concerns about the NDIS legislation currently before the Parliament.
Members shared stories from participants who have made change of circumstances requests. Participants are reporting that they feel they need to complete change of circumstances requests because their plans are being rolled over without them knowing. Members also said participants with long-standing funding for necessary supports have experienced funding reductions without understanding why, and when their circumstances have not changed.
The Agency said it is focused on improving participant communications.
IAC Advice update
Members discussed and provided input into the IAC’s ‘Home and Living’ and ‘Justice’ advice, both of which are currently being developed.
Supported Independent Living commissioning update
The Department of Health, Disability and Ageing updated Members and led a discussion on Supported Independent Living (SIL) commissioning. SIL is in-home support required by some participants. The Department noted that the Government has not yet decided to proceed with SIL commissioning. It will consult members before any changes are introduced. The Department is keen to hear from people with high-level needs to make ongoing improvements to its processes.
IAC Work Plan 2026-27
Members discussed the draft IAC Work Plan for 2026-27. The Work Plan’s proposed primary focus areas are NDIS reform, home and living, justice, planning and support in emergencies and market issues.
More information on the IAC
The IAC will next meet on 13 August 2026 online. Find out more about IAC and Reference Group meetings and bulletins at the IAC website.
Information in Easy Read
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