Advocacy for Inclusion was approached by Disability ACT in June 2012 to assist with preparations for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). After some consideration Advocacy for Inclusion decided to undertake a research project on the readiness of people with disabilities to exercise control and choice over their own lives and supports. Control and Choice is the central underpinning of the NDIS. Advocacy for Inclusion had raised concerns based on our advocacy work that control and choice of people with disabilities is not currently well supported, or strongly exercised, and that the NDIS would not fulfil its intentions without this being remedied.

The findings from this research paint a very concerning picture of the lack of control and choice people with disabilities have over their supports and over their lives. Most had also never heard of the NDIS. It illustrates cultural issues in the community and the disability services sector, which can deny people with disabilities their right to “respect for inherent dignity, individual autonomy including the freedom to make one’s own choices, and independence of persons.” This study also uncovers small signs of what is working well and what is helping people to gain more control and choice in their lives.

In this report we draw attention to these issues not to criticise individual approaches of paid and unpaid support people, who are vital in the lives of people with disabilities. Rather, the purpose is to identify potential solutions and invite a total rethink of the current approach to people with disabilities in our community and how supports and services are provided to them, especially in light of the imminent NDIS.

Advocacy for Inclusion strongly recommends that extensive work be undertaken directly with people with disabilities to prepare them to exercise control and choice over their supports and their lives when the NDIS is introduced. Extensive work with support networks and workforce is also required to ensure control and choice is supported.