NDIS cuts almost $90,000 from paraplegic's support after commode request
After requesting a portable commode, a mother fights an almost $90,000 cut to her NDIS plan.
Maddie Roberts, 32, became a complete paraplegic after cardiac arrest during surgery in December 2024. She spent eight months in hospital.
She came home needing overnight care equipment and support workers for daily tasks she cannot do. When the NDIA approved her request for a portable commode, it triggered a full review of her support plan.
The agency then proposed cutting roughly $90,000 from her core supports. These funds pay for domestic help and community access.
Roberts says the NDIA based its assessment on paperwork rather than visiting her home. She paid $3,000 to $4,000 for an independent assessment.
That report suggests she actually needs more support, potentially 24-hour care. Her original funding had never been overspent.
- Almost $90,000
- Proposed cut to support plan
- 8 months
- Time in hospital after cardiac arrest
- $3,000 to $4,000
- Independent assessment cost
- 32
- Maddie's age
Why it mattersThis case raises questions about how NDIS reviews trigger funding cuts for people with severe disabilities, and whether assessments based on paperwork alone can accurately reflect real support needs.
AustraliaFor disabled Australians reliant on NDIS funding, this case highlights concerns that routine review processes may strip support suddenly, and that the agency's assessment method may not match real daily needs.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 9 d ago
