NDIS in Crisis: A Look at Wasted Taxpayer Money
Australia’s National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is facing a crisis of wasted taxpayer funds. Jeremy Cordeaux discussed this in The Court of Public Opinion, describing it as a “42 billion dollar disgrace.” He criticised how taxpayer money has been used for unapproved services, highlighting the mismanagement within the scheme.
Jeremy pointed out the absurdity of the situation by asking, “Why would anyone think that goat therapy, online dating, a wedding or a honeymoon could just be put on a list for the taxpayer to pay?” This raises serious concerns about how such claims were approved in the first place.
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How Unapproved Services Slipped Through the Cracks
The NDIS was set up to support Australians with disabilities, but it appears to be riddled with loopholes. According to Jeremy, it took “ten years to make up and publish this list” of what the NDIS covers. He questioned why it took so long to identify unapproved services like “clairvoyance, cuddle therapy, and wilderness therapy.”
Jeremy argued that the scheme seemed almost designed to be misused. He said, “The very fact that these extraordinary items are on Bill Shorten’s list tells me that people have been claiming them, and yes, we have been paying them.” His comments suggest a lack of oversight in the NDIS approval process.
Calls for Reform and Accountability
Jeremy Cordeaux is not alone in his call for reform within the NDIS. He mentioned that even the Minister responsible, Bill Shorten, acknowledged the issue by saying, “the NDIS is in the hands of criminals.” This admission by the Minister raises serious questions about the government’s handling of the scheme.
Cordeaux urged for more transparency and accountability in managing taxpayer funds. He asked, “Why wasn’t it means tested? If somebody can look after himself or herself, why should the taxpayer?” His call for a means-tested approach could be a step towards reducing waste and improving the system’s efficiency.
What Needs to Change in the NDIS?
The NDIS requires a major overhaul to prevent further misuse of funds. Jeremy suggested that the government should have started with a clear list of approved services from the beginning. He said, “Why weren’t these things included or, as you’ve put it, excluded in the first place?”
Cordeaux believes that the focus should be on what is permitted under the NDIS, rather than listing everything that is not. He argued, “What is permitted? Instead of this huge list of things that are not permitted.” This proactive approach could help streamline the approval process and ensure that funds are allocated to those who genuinely need them.
Conclusion
The NDIS scandal highlights a severe misuse of taxpayer money on unapproved services. Jeremy Cordeaux’s analysis on The Court of Public Opinion calls for urgent reforms and greater accountability. To restore public trust, the government must take immediate action to tighten the rules and improve the scheme’s oversight.
Join Jeremy Cordeaux for The Court of Public Opinion LIVE every Friday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., streaming round the dining room table at jeremycordeaux.com and via Auscast Radio at auscastnetwork.com.
