The Federal government’s new First Nations-focused NDIS strategy promises culturally safe and accessible support.

The NDIS First Nations Strategy 2025-2030 was released just days after the government’s first National Autism Strategy.

Former NDIS Minister Bill Shorten said the First Nations strategy is a key step to improving the lives of First Nations people with disability.

“We recognise the multiple challenges and barriers First Nations people have experienced in accessing the NDIS, including culturally safe and effective NDIS services and supports,” he said.

“We know changes need to be made and they need to be made together with First Nations people. The strategy represents a commitment to meaningful action to address systemic barriers and challenges for First Nations people who are already on the Scheme, and for those who need supports but may not yet have them.”

He added the new focused strategy responds to recommendations in the Disability Royal Commission and NDIS Review, as well as the government’s Closing the Gap agreement.

It was developed with a First Nations Strategy Working Group that comprised First Nations NDIS participants, providers and partners in the community, as well as First Nations peak bodies and advocates.

First Nations Strategy Working Group Member Suzy Trindall, a proud Gadigal woman with disability, said it has been a privilege to help shape the strategy.

“I take this responsibility seriously as I want to do right by First Nations people with disability who need a voice. What stood out to me about this process was the people, we each brought different perspectives, and our deep sense of connection made our contributions more meaningful,” Tindall said.

First Nations reference group to strengthen advice

At the same time, Shorten announced the creation of a new NDIA Independent Advisory Council (IAC) First Nations Reference Group.

He said the Reference Group, which will hold its first meeting in February 2025, will play a vital role in strengthening strategic advice to the NDIA Board on policies and services affecting First Nations people.

The NDIS is now supporting over 52,000 First Nations participants.

Read more about the First Nations Strategy on the NDIS website via the following link: First Nations Strategy | NDIS.