What we talked about:
Topic 1: Co-design reset
We discussed the proposed co-design reset, which will focus on what needs to be done in 2025 to develop and deliver the New Framework Planning.
The group said they felt heard by the reset. One member said the co-design work now seems ambitious but doable.
The group is keen to ensure they receive updates on progress from the other continuing groups with opportunities to provide feedback where possible.
Topic 2: Co-design approach
We talked about different ways that people experience risk and how the Agency might better identify and support participants at risk of violence, abuse, neglect, and exploitation. We used an example of someone requiring supports to manage their funding to discuss how we might make sure that safeguards are proportionate and relevant to the risk.
What we heard:
Group members had different views about the Agency’s role in managing risk.
Some people said the NDIA was causing harm by giving people responsibility to manage their own funds and should have a detailed understanding of their risk profile.
Other people said dignity of risk was an essential part of safeguarding (“We do not want people safeguarding so we can’t live our lives. Everyone should be able to make mistakes and take risks.”)
Some group members said that the NDIA should seek input from the disability community as early as possible, so that lived experience is reflected (for example in the recent tender for the Support Needs Assessment tool).
What we agreed on:
Members agreed the system should allow for both dignity of risk in managing funds and supporting participants to manage their funding.
NDIA will contact NDIA Participant Critical Incident Team and report back on critical incident reporting process and data.
NDIA will provide information and links to updates from the other three working groups to Participant Safeguarding group members.
NDIA will seek information about the program of work and opportunities to influence the Assessment and Budgets Initiative.
The Department of Social Services are drafting a National Safeguarding Framework that sits across the whole safeguarding ecosystem. They are launching a consultation paper in May. They will share this with the group.
What we will do next:
We will publish a summary from this meeting on our website once endorsed by the Co-Chairs.
The Participant Safeguarding Co-design Working Group will meet again on Tuesday, 13 May 2025, from 2-4pm Australian Eastern Standard Time.
Who we met with
Participants, Disability Representative and Carer Organisations, Independent Advisory Council and Reference Group members, subject matter experts and NDIA staff.
