October 28th 2024.
The government has announced new laws that will significantly increase fines for NDIS providers who engage in dishonest practices. This move aims to enhance the safety of participants and crack down on those who try to exploit the system for their own gain. NDIS Minister Bill Shorten revealed that under the new legislation, providers could now face fines of more than $15 million if a participant is harmed while under their care. This is a significant jump from the previous fine of $400,000.
Shorten highlighted that this change was necessary to align the penalty for harming a participant with the penalty for harming a worker. He noted that it was long overdue and stressed the importance of ensuring that individuals on the NDIS are protected and receive high-quality support. "It's really absurd when you stop and think about it," he remarked. "We throw the book at those who harm workers, but the same level of protection should be extended to NDIS participants. That's exactly what we're aiming to achieve with these new laws – to guarantee the safety and well-being of everyone on the scheme."
Another crucial aspect of the new legislation is the power granted to the NDIS Commission to refer providers for criminal prosecution. Currently, this authority does not exist, but with the new laws, the commission will have the ability to take legal action against dishonest providers. Shorten emphasized that this measure was necessary to ensure that those who engage in fraudulent activities are held accountable for their actions.
"I want to make it clear to all dodgy NDIS providers that there is no place for you in this scheme," Shorten declared. "We don't want to see you here. Just leave, disappear. Go back to where you came from, and stop taking advantage of vulnerable individuals. The NDIS is not a source of free government money, and people with disabilities are not human ATMs. We are committed to making the NDIS the best scheme in the world, and we will do everything in our power to ensure that it continues to positively impact the lives of hundreds of thousands of people."
The federal government will seek feedback and input on the bill before presenting it to parliament for approval. This consultation process demonstrates the government's commitment to making informed and evidence-based decisions when it comes to the NDIS. The welfare and protection of participants are of utmost importance, and the government is taking every step necessary to safeguard their rights and well-being.
[This article has been trending online recently and has been generated with AI. Your feed is customized.]
[Generative AI is experimental.]
