Disability support faces scrutiny in Australia and the UK

In Australia, the South West Autism Network has alleged that families facing funding cuts to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) are being referred to child protection services after complaining about support reductions. The group reported over 20 instances where authorities conducted unannounced visits following NDIS assessments. While the National Disability Insurance Agency has denied these allegations, advocates claim parents are being told that failing to manage support gaps due to funding cuts is a failure of parental responsibility.

In the United Kingdom, a report by Policy Exchange has proposed a £11.9 billion reduction in welfare spending by restricting eligibility for the Child Disability Living Allowance (DLA). The proposal suggests limiting awards for conditions such as learning difficulties and behavioral disorders to manage rising costs. Disability charities, including Sense, have criticized the suggestion, describing the potential cuts as ‘shockingly cruel’ and warning that restricting access without improving social care and education systems could drive families into hardship.