Adam Kupics has been using a prosthetic leg for over ten years, and he credits the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) with significantly improving his quality of life. However, recent changes to the scheme have drastically reduced his funding by more than $30,000, adversely affecting his ability to meet basic needs.
The alterations to his plan have left him struggling to afford essential maintenance for his prosthetic leg. He expressed concerns about being unable to get approval for catheter invoices, stating, “I have to worry about whether I open a new catheter or not, or whether I can still continue to sterilise one that I’ve used 15 times before. It’s terrifying me.” Furthermore, he has been asked multiple times to prove the permanence of his disability, which he finds frustrating and unnecessary.
Kupics believes that the NDIS has shifted away from what it used to be, prompting him to call for a significant overhaul. He suggests that employing individuals with disabilities within the NDIS could lead to a more compassionate approach in handling participants’ needs. “Hire me. Let me help you fix the problem,” he urged, highlighting the importance of empathy in the process.
In response to his claims, the NDIA has stated that Kupics does have funding available for catheters, which he has not yet utilised. They also mentioned that he has previously used NDIS funds for items not directly related to his disability and has not provided adequate documentation to support some of his requests. The organisation emphasised that all participants must utilise NDIS funds strictly for disability-related items and provide necessary evidence for their claims.
This ongoing situation illustrates the challenges faced by individuals reliant on the NDIS, particularly when funding cuts threaten their access to essential resources and support.