Age Limit Bars Quadriplegic Man from NDIS, Creating $220,000 Care Shortfall
Howard Williams, 65, became quadriplegic after sustaining a fall during a holiday in Hakodate, Japan, in May last year. The incident, which resulted in fractures to his C1, C4, and C5 vertebrae, occurred just 16 days after his 65th birthday.
This timing has rendered him ineligible for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).
His ineligibility for the NDIS results in an estimated annual shortfall of $220,000 for his basic support needs.
"Support access should be based on need rather than age."
— Mark Townend, CEO of Spinal Life Australia
The Heavy Cost of 24-Hour Care
Mr. Williams requires round-the-clock care and is unable to perform self-care activities without assistance. The estimated total cost for his comprehensive care is $290,000 per year.
Currently, he receives $73,000 annually through the federal government's Support at Home program. This leaves a significant gap in funding for his extensive needs.
His wife, Lorraine Williams, 70, provides substantial care, including crucial overnight assistance to prevent pressure sores. The cost of additional professional caring staff for this level of support is currently prohibitive for the family.
A Wife's Plea for Policy Change
Driven by her husband's situation, Lorraine Williams has initiated a parliamentary petition. The petition calls for the removal of the NDIS age limit for individuals with severe disabilities and has already gathered 4,500 signatures.
Experts Flag "Policy Failure" as Government Stands Firm
The challenges faced by Mr. Williams echo findings from the Aged Care Royal Commission. Its 2021 recommendations included that individuals with disabilities receiving aged care should receive support equivalent to that offered by the NDIS.
However, a government spokesperson stated that the NDIS and Support at Home are distinct programs. They are governed by different legislation and funding criteria, indicating no immediate change to the current system.
Mark Townend, CEO of Spinal Life Australia, described the situation as a "policy failure." He emphasized that individuals who acquire a disability later in life are compelled to use a system not designed for their requirements. Townend firmly believes that support access should be based on need rather than age.