The Tasmanian 2023-24 State Budget, announced Thursday 25 May, will see continued funding for the establishment of the Tasmanian Disability Commissioner and ongoing peak body funding, but no new funding for the disability sector.  

Despite Tasmania having the highest rate of people identifying with a disability at 26.8 per cent (approximately 140,000 people) there is no new significant spending aimed at people with disability or the sector.  

There are approximately 13,000 Tasmanians with active NDIS plans. While NDS welcomes Tasmania’s contribution (determined by the Bilateral Agreement) to the NDIS, it is worth noting that there are approximately 126,000 Tasmanians with disability who do not have services they can access. There is significant need for further funding for several disability initiatives, especially tier two supports.