The Federal Election is coming up, and it’s an important time for all Australians, especially people with disability, to make their voices heard. Your vote can help shape the future of the NDIS and make sure your concerns are listened to.

Why Your Vote Matters

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is a vital support for many Australians with disability. The upcoming Federal Election is a chance to push for changes that will make the NDIS better and keep it meeting people’s needs.

Key Dates

• Start of early voting: Tuesday 22 April
• Close of postal vote applications: Wednesday 30 April
• Election Day: Saturday 3 May

Know Your Local MP or Candidate

It’s important to know where your local MP or candidate stands on issues that matter to you. Finding out their position helps you make the right choice when you vote.

Start by finding out who your local MP or candidate is using the Australian Parliament website: Find your local MP 

Once you know who represents your area, check if their views match yours by using ABC’s Vote Compass: Vote Compass – ABC

Assistance and Resources for Voting

The Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) offers support to make voting accessible for everyone. This includes help for people with disability, multilingual services, and accessible voting options.

Visit the AEC’s assistance page to learn more: https://www.aec.gov.au/assistance/

How to Register for Postal Voting

Can’t make it to a polling place? You can still vote by post.

Anyone can apply for a postal vote – it’s a good option if you:

• Have disability access needs 
• Are caring for someone 
• Will be away from home

Deadline to apply: 6pm, Wednesday 30 April.

How to apply:
Visit the AEC website and fill out the form: aec.gov.au/election/pva.htm

Your voting pack will be mailed to you. Follow the instructions and return your vote as soon as you can.

Make Your Voice Heard

Talking to your local MP or candidate about NDIS issues helps hold them accountable and makes sure they understand your concerns. Here are some sample questions to ask:

1. How will you make sure people with disability are included in shaping NDIS policies?
2. What will you do to protect the right of NDIS participants to choose their own providers?
3. How do you plan to fix the NDIS support lists to give participants more choice and control?
4. What will you do to make sure support needs assessments are fair and respectful?
5. Will you push for fair and clear processes in NDIS eligibility reassessments?
6. How will you make sure that people who don’t qualify for the NDIS still get the support they need?
7. What is your stance on making sure people with disability aren’t forced into group homes?

Take Action: Contact Your Local MP or Candidate

Sending an email or letter is a good way to share your concerns and ask questions. Here are some templates to get you started:

Template 1: Email to Your MP/Candidate

Subject: Your Commitment to NDIS Participants

Dear [MP/Candidate Name],

As a voter in [Your Electorate], I am worried about the future of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). I would like to know your views on important issues affecting people with disability, including [mention one or two key issues from the list above].

Your response will help me make the best choice in the upcoming election. Thank you for your time.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Template 2: Social Media Post to Your MP/Candidate

@ [MP/Candidate Handle], as a voter in [Your Electorate], I’d like to know your thoughts on NDIS reforms. Will you support measures to include people with disability in decision-making? #ProtectOurNDIS #EveryAustralianCounts

Useful Links

• Find your local MP: https://www.aph.gov.au/Senators_and_Members/Contacting_Senators_and_Members
• Vote Compass to see how your views compare: https://www.abc.net.au/news/vote-compass
• Australian Electoral Commission assistance for accessible voting: https://www.aec.gov.au/assistance/
• Postal Voting: aec.gov.au/election/pva.htm

By getting involved and speaking up, you help make sure disability rights are part of the election conversation. Your voice counts – make it heard!

Your Top 5 NDIS Priorities – What You Told Us

Thousands of you shared what matters most when it comes to fixing the NDIS – and we listened.

From restoring choice and control, to stopping forced group home placements, your top 5 priorities are now shaping our election advocacy.

Find out what they are and why they matter: Read the full article

Let’s keep the pressure on. Together, we can make sure the next government takes real action.