Australia's NDIS spending growth slowing, reforms still pending
The Australian government reports progress in controlling NDIS spending, with growth reduced to 10.3% from 22% since Labor took power. A $700 million boost to the federal budget is expected due to lower-than-anticipated costs. Over 706,000 Australians are now enrolled in the NDIS, with costs rising to $30.2 billion this financial year. The projected cost for 2033-34 has decreased from $100.5 billion to $92.7 billion, but key reforms are still being negotiated. The government plans to shift some autism support services to schools and childcare, but a funding agreement is pending. Opposition claims the government is failing to address fraud and increasing waiting times for participants.