Reports that New Horizons has been denied a National Disability Insurance Scheme funding grant has raised many questions and concerns.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The respected disability service provider has become the latest in a growing list of organisations who are struggling to adapt the way it provides its service to suit the NDIS model. Or at least prove that it is worthy of financial support.
The final stage of the NDIS was fully rolled out in Tasmania from July 1 last year, marking a once in a generational shift to the way the costs associated with disability support are funded.
Funding for organisations like New Horizons that were once administered by the state government, now need to come from the NDIS.
One of the most significant impacts of this is that Tasmanian service providers must now compete with organisation across the country for grant funding.
All up 18 disability bodies in Tasmania - mostly advocacy groups - will be in the same position.
With funding already stretched to its limits, the latest blow was described by New Horizons chief executive Edwina Dick as their "worst fears" being realised.
Because sadly, almost a year ago to the day the organisation raised the concerns it could be shut down by mid-2020 without ongoing funding. And yet here we are.
There was some relief along the way. In April its short-term future was secured with an announcement of $155,000 in federal funding.
However, this was clearly a short-term fix when what's really needed is a long term solution.
The issue becomes even more concerning considering allegations of a $1.6 billion NDIS "underspend", with requests from the NSW and Victorian governments to release the money in order to keep organisations across the country open.
News that state Health Minister Sarah Courtney will raise the issues with her federal counterparts is welcome. Bass Liberal MHA Bridget Archer has also committed to further speaking with NDIS Minister Stuart Robert about the issues this week.
But will we see action?
Valuable organisations like New Horizons should be able to focus on advocating for their clients - not lobbying for funding.