Submission to the Productivity Commission Inquiry into Long-Term Disability Care and Support
Having read the draft report overview and recommendations I am optimistic that a better system for disability care and support is possible.  Thank you for your efforts in producing the report.
I would ask the Commissioners to further consider the suggestion of co-payments.  While some people with disabilities and/or their families may be able to financially contribute toward assistance, there are many who would find a co-payment a real impost and therefore may be forced to go without a service if a co-payment is required.  I am sure that those who could afford the co-payment would be able to spend that money to improve their situation even more, rather than have their income depleted by a prerequisite co-payment. 
I also ask that the Commissioners recommend that the increased costs for people from rural and remote areas be taken into account when an assessment tool is being developed.  As many submissions have stated, the added costs relating to travel and accommodation expenses when trying to access services should be included in the individualised funding assessment.

Yours faithfully

NARELLE HUGHES