The NDIS – already launched in other parts of Australia – is set to arrive in Wagga in June 2017. In the lead-up, industry experts are currently debating the role of carers in the transformed system.

They fear that carers could be left in the lurch. 

“I think the biggest concern will be what happens to carers in an emergency or crisis situation,” Intereach Wagga manager Deborah Russell said.

“We’re not sure where that person with a disability is going to fit. Who will care for them if something goes wrong?”

Ms Russell said while there was still a need for fine tuning of the NDIS ahead of its arrival, the shift to a new funding model had the overwhelming support of the industry.

Under the scheme, funding will be individualised, which allocates money directly to an individual so they can choose the support that best meets their disability needs. 

The block funding model – long criticised as creating shortfalls in local respite care – will be unwound.

Respite care is the temporary care of a person with a disability, giving their usual carer a break when they need it.

“In Wagga, we have some great respite care providers such as Kurrajong Waratah, The Leisure Company, Northcott and others, but there is never enough supply to meet the need,” Ms Russell said.

“There has always been long waiting lists.

“So once we move away from block funding to individual funding, I think it’s going to get a lot easier.”

Asked about the role of carers in the life of a person with a disability, Ms Russell said they were heroes.

“They are so important,” she said.

“You and I get four weeks holiday a year, carers don’t get that.

“Carers don’t get that opportunity to say I’m going to take a break.

“Often they will have two jobs: their normal day job and caring for a person with a disability.

“It’s important to remember that anybody could become a carer at any stage of their life.”