Disability insurance scheme a gateway to change

Put simply, The Gateway is a single, visible entry point, information source and referral pathway for adults, children and professionals. Instead of multiple assessments through multiple agencies, families have one contact point that assesses, plans and arranges care and support. We run the system on behalf of the Tasmanian Government, which has independently evaluated and verified its effectiveness.

On 30 April the Every Australian Counts campaign will hold simultaneous rallies across the country, calling on Canberra to "Make it Real" by committing to funding and setting up the administrative body to implement the NDIS. Baptcare will rally in Hobart and in Melbourne, alongside people with a disability, carers and other disability organisations.

We know from our experience of reforming disability services in Tasmania and establishing the Gateway model the enormity of this change for people with disabilities and carers.

We are on the verge of a reform that will make monumental meaningful and tangible changes the lives of many citizens sorely in need of a social safety net. If successful, it is a reform that will speak volumes to our national character and a reform of which Australians and their Parliament can be truly proud.

As one submitter told the Productivity Commission, the prospect of an NDIS means hope that carers like her may look forward to "departing this world in peace [knowing] that their adult family member will receive consistent quality of life care".