The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has reminded people with disability to use their consumer rights when purchasing goods or services under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).
The ACCC said that a new independent Commonwealth body, the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission is being established and would be available to take complaints from participants in all Australian States and Territories, except Western Australia, from 1 July. Western Australia is to participate from 1 July 2020.
Deputy Chair of the ACCC, Delia Rickard said the new NDIS Commission would be a key Agency involved in the protection of people with disability.
“The NDIS Commission will provide a nationally consistent framework and its functions will include registering NDIS providers and overseeing provider quality and safety; responding to complaints and managing reportable incidents such as the abuse or neglect of participants,” Ms Rickard said.
“Since its roll out in 2016, there are now more than 180,000 participants in the NDIS and more than 16,700 registered service providers.”
She reminded new and existing businesses that they must also comply with their obligations under the Competition and Consumer Act, which includes the Australian Consumer Law.
“The NDIS has led to a range of new entrants in the market,” Ms Rickard said.
“While this is good for competition, we are concerned about the potential for unscrupulous traders to take advantage of vulnerable consumers,” she said.
“It is important for people with disability to understand their rights and where to seek assistance when things go wrong. Providers must address complaints promptly and treat consumers fairly and in accordance with the law,” Ms Rickard said.
