Opened the debate
Butler supported the agreement to the Senate amendments, noting they resulted from meaningful engagement with the Senate Community Affairs Legislation Committee and the disability community. Butler stated that the 63 amendments strengthened participant safeguards and clarified laws, particularly regarding support determinations for those requiring continuous care. Butler explained that the changes clarified parental expectations for children with disabilities, ensuring the NDIA considers risks to informal supports. Butler also highlighted that the amendments banned kickbacks, added integrity offences, and improved whistleblower protections to combat fraud and exploitation.