Australian Greens: Senator Steele-John’s response to NDIA Leadership changes

After years of campaigning with a united voice of Nothing About Us Without Us, the disability community and Australian Greens Senator Jordon Steele-John welcome the appointment of more disabled people into leadership positions in the NDIA. 

Lines attributed to Senator Jordon Steele-John, Disabled Person and Australian Greens spokesperson for Disability Rights and Services. 

“Today, like many in our community, I am feeling relief that finally, we have some more disabled people in leadership positions within the National Disability Insurance Agency.

“Many are pleased to see Kurt Fearnley take on the Chair of the Board for the NDIA. His experience as a physically disabled person will add a great perspective, and I hope that he continues to listen to people with a range of disabilities and advocate for major, transformative change in the culture and operations of the NDIA. 

“The appointment of the new CEO is progress, it’s good to have a woman with a background in public service take on the role. I see it as a missed opportunity to have a disabled person as CEO. 

“It remains that two of the three leadership roles; the Minister, the CEO and the Chair, who make decisions every day that impact the lives of disabled people do not have lived experience of being a disabled person.

“The Australian Greens continue to call on the new leadership team to make big changes to the culture of the NDIA, ensuring that the scheme is no longer one of fear for participants.  Disabled people, wherever they are across the country, regardless of how old they are, must be able to get the supports they need through the NDIS.  

Media Contact
Steele-John – Sophie Greer – 0488 316 387