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NDIS bill to pass Senate after deal
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
Senate committee recommended passing NDIS overhaul bill, saving $37.8bn over four years.
The deal with Coalition likely secures passage, but disability advocates warn of harm.
Background
The NDIS is a $52bn-a-year scheme supporting over 774,000 Australians. The government's bill, introduced in May, aims to tighten eligibility and introduce independent assessments from 2028 to curb cost growth. A Senate inquiry recommended passing it, despite widespread criticism from disability groups and crossbenchers who say it goes 'too far, too fast'.
How it unfolded
- May 2026Health Minister Mark Butler introduced the NDIS Amendment Bill to parliament.
- Jul 2, 2026The bill passed the House of Representatives after 30 amendments were accepted.
- Aug 12, 2026The bill was introduced to the Senate.
- Aug 14, 2026The Senate Community Affairs Legislation Committee tabled its report recommending the bill pass.
- Aug 17, 2026Senate debate begins; Labor seeks a deal with the Coalition to pass the bill this week.
Who’s saying what
- Official
- The committee found the reform 'strikes the right balance' between sustainability and safeguards.
- Caution
- Independent Senator David Pocock said the overhaul goes 'too far, too fast' and urged the government to be open to change.
- Support
- Coalition's Angus Taylor linked support to removal of the 'widow tax' loophole, calling delays 'unconscionable'.
- Public
- Disability advocacy groups warned caring responsibilities will shift to families, disproportionately affecting women.
Still unverified
The exact details of the deal between Labor and the Coalition are not yet public.