In May 2026, Audiology Australia provided a submission to the Senate Community Affairs Legislation Committee on the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) Amendment (Securing the NDIS for Future Generations) Bill 2026. This submission supported efforts to strengthen the Scheme while raising concerns about unintended impacts for people with hearing loss.
We emphasised that hearing loss is a lifelong, often invisible, disability and that reforms must not limit access to essential communication and participation supports.
Our key recommendations include:
- clarifying the boundaries between the NDIS and existing programs to avoid service gaps
- incorporating hearing-specific expertise and communication measures in assessments
- recognising that hearing technology does not remove the need for ongoing supports
- ensuring evidence and treatment requirements are fair and accessible
- maintain strong human oversight in decision-making and planning.
Audiology Australia will continue to advocate for reforms that support both Scheme sustainability and equitable access to essential services for people with hearing loss.
To view the full submission, click here.
For more information, please contact info@audiology.asn.au