Opened the debate
Thompson argued that the government had overlooked and underserved Australians with disabilities through rushed funding cuts and abrupt plan reassessments. Thompson described instances in his electorate where providers continued unpaid care worth significant sums after funding was cancelled, and where participants with complex needs were left without adequate support. Thompson contended that recent pricing review cuts disproportionately affected regional areas by halving travel allowances and reducing allied health services with minimal notice. Thompson further criticised the government's handling of the Thriving Kids program, highlighting concerns about unfunded state contributions and the resulting anxiety among families of children with autism. Thompson asserted that the government should focus on prosecuting fraudulent providers rather than reducing support for vulnerable participants.