NDIS Reform Advisory Committee Expression of Interest – Background and Frequently Asked Questions
Background
In May 2024, the Australian Government announced the establishment of the NDIS Reform Advisory Committee (the NDIS RAC) to monitor and advise the Disability Reform Ministerial Council (DRMC) on the implementation of reform to the NDIS. This includes:
- governments’ responses to the Independent Review into the NDIS (NDIS Review)
- NDIS-related recommendations from the Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability (Disability Royal Commission).
The NDIS RAC will:
- monitor and advise on the implementation of NDIS reforms
- advise DRMC on effective processes for engaging with people with lived experience
- ensure the diverse voices, views and lived experience of people with disability are heard by DRMC
- formally report to DRMC every six months and provide additional ad hoc reporting and advice.
We are seeking nominations for representatives from the disability community to join the NDIS RAC through an open Expression of Interest (EOI) process.
Nominees may choose to be considered as a representative for their state or territory (one per jurisdiction), or as one of three community members appointed by the Commonwealth. Nominees may choose to be considered for both opportunities.
Successful candidates will be appointed to the NDIS RAC by the Commonwealth Minister for the NDIS, following consultation with the NDIS RAC Co-Chairs and states and territories. NDIS RAC members will be appointed in a private capacity, not as representatives of any organisation.
Where nominees consent, applications made through this process may also be used to select people to participate in other relevant working groups, roundtables or focus groups.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the role of NDIS Reform Advisory Committee members?
The NDIS RAC has been established to ensure the diverse views and perspectives of people with disability on reform and transition are elevated during the implementation of NDIS reforms.
The NDIS RAC will monitor implementation of NDIS reforms and provide advice to the Disability Reform Ministerial Council (DRMC) on engagement with people with lived experience and implementation of reforms.
Committee members will draw on their personal and professional experience and networks to provide advice and ensure the diversity of experiences and challenges faced by the disability community are conveyed to Disability Ministers.
The NDIS RAC will meet regularly to discuss reforms underway and develop advice for DRMC.
The Terms of Reference for the NDIS RAC can be found here: Terms of Reference. The Terms of Reference and ongoing role of the NDIS RAC will be reviewed annually.
Who will be on the NDIS Reform Advisory Committee?
The NDIS RAC will consist of two Co-Chairs, eight members to represent each state and territory Disability Ministers and three community representatives nominated by the Commonwealth. This EOI is for both state and territory representatives and community representatives.
The NDIS RAC will be made up of disability community and sector representatives with diverse lived and professional experience. The majority of the members of the RAC will be people with disability.
Collectively, the NDIS RAC will have a range of expertise and experience, including on disability matters, dealing with government, connecting with and representing people with disability and understanding the disability-related experience of diverse communities (including but not limited to First Nations, culturally and linguistically diverse, LGBTIQA+SA, regional, remote and rural communities).
At least two members will be carers of people with disability, and at least one member each will: be a First Nations person; have experience in relation to rural or regional areas; and have experience in the provision of services to people with disability.
The inaugural Co-Chairs of the Committee are El Gibbs and Dougie Herd.
Who will decide who is on the NDIS Reform Advisory Committee?
The Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme will appoint members to the NDIS RAC. Appointments will be made in consultation with state and territory Disability Ministers and the inaugural NDIS RAC Co-Chairs. Applications will be assessed based on demonstrated knowledge, skills and experience.
How can I express my interest in being involved in the NDIS Reform Advisory Committee?
To express your interest in the NDIS Reform Advisory Committee, please complete an Expression of Interest form. You will need to provide information about yourself and your experience.
Expressions of Interest can be submitted on the DSS website here: online EOI form.
If you wish to submit a handwritten form, please:
- Download and print off a copy of the EOI form.
- Write your answers clearly in blue or black pen in the spaces provided.
Scan and email your completed form to NDISRACenquiries@dss.gov.au by 11:59pm on 24 March 2025.
If you wish to submit a video application, please email NDISRACenquiries@dss.gov.au for instructions on uploading your video.
How long will expressions of interest be open?
Applications will open from 24 February 2025 and close 24 March 2025 at 11:59pm.
All applications must be submitted through the online EOI form, or in the instance of handwritten or video applications, to NDISRACenquiries@dss.gov.au by this time. Late applications will not be accepted.
Should I apply as a community member or state or territory representative?
You may choose to be considered as a representative for your state or territory, or as one of three community members. You may be considered for both opportunities. The roles and responsibilities of state and territory representatives and community members on the NDIS RAC are the same.
Community members may have broad experience and skills relevant to the roles and responsibilities of the NDIS RAC.
State and territory representatives may be particularly connected to the disability community and sector within their state. State and territory representatives may also meet periodically with the relevant government. This will be at the discretion of each state and territory.
Can I express my interest if I work in the disability sector?
Expressions of interest from people working in the disability sector are welcome. However, all members will be appointed as individuals, not as organisational representatives. Members will not be able to delegate responsibilities to proxies. Members will be asked to sign a deed of confidentiality and will not be able to share confidential information provided to them in their NDIS RAC role with their organisation.
Can I express my interest if I work in government?
Expressions of interest cannot be accepted from individuals working in closely related roles in government, such disability policy roles. Government employees in unrelated roles or existing advisory roles may apply. However, public servants employed by either the Australian Government or state or territory governments are ineligible for payment for services.
How long are terms of appointments?
The Committee will operate for five years, with members appointed for a term of 2.5 years.
How often will the Reform Advisory Committee meet?
The NDIS RAC is expected to meet up to monthly while NDIS reforms are underway. The first meeting is expected to be held within a month of members being appointed. NDIS RAC members may be asked to comment on documents, provide input and take part in engagement activities between meetings.
It is likely that this will involve on average 2-3 days of work per month.
Meetings will usually be virtual via Microsoft Teams. Auslan interpreters will be available for meetings as required, and Co-Chairs will chair meetings to support all members to be included and contribute to discussions.
Will members be paid for their time?
NDIS RAC members will be appointed in a non-statutory capacity and remunerated for their time in line under the Remuneration Tribunal (Remuneration and Allowances for Holders of Part-time Public Office) Determination 2024. Remuneration includes meeting and preparation time. Other expenses, including travel costs, will also be covered. Public servants employed by either the Australian Government or state or territory governments who may be appointed to the NDIS RAC will be ineligible for payment for services.
How will I find out if I’m chosen for the Reform Advisory Committee?
All applicants will be notified of the outcome of their application following the assessment process, which may take 1-2 months following the close of the EOI.
The Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme will write to selected nominees to offer a position on the Committee.
What will happen with the information I provide in my EOI?
In applying for the EOI, you will provide the Department of Social Services (the department) with some personal information, including sensitive information. The department will handle your information in accordance with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth).
Applications may be shared with the NDIS RAC Co-Chairs, the Minister for the NDIS and relevant Commonwealth officials. If you are applying to be a state or territory representative, your information will also be shared with Minister and senior officials from the relevant jurisdiction.
More information can be found in the Privacy Collection Notice here: Privacy Collection Notice.
How will I know my EOI has been received?
After submitting your EOI, you will receive an email confirming receipt of your application. If you do not receive a notification, please confirm you have submitted the form then follow up with the Reform Advisory Committee secretariat team.
Where can I go if I have additional questions?
You can request more information by contacting the Secretariat team at NDISRACenquiries@dss.gov.au.
More information can also be found in Easy Read versions of the EOI Form, Terms of Reference, Privacy Consent Notice and FAQs here: DSS Engage.