National Disability Services (NDS) WA has welcomed comments by Premier Colin Barnett today that the long-overdue No Fault Insurance Scheme is expected to be part of this year’s State Budget, but warns the estimated cost for motorists needs further investigation.

While NDS WA strongly supports the scheme’s introduction, it shares concerns raised by the RAC that the estimated levy of $109 on vehicle registrations is inflated in comparison with other States and requires further independent analysis.

An independent survey commissioned by the RAC found that although most West Australians support a No Fault Insurance scheme in principal, the level of support was very sensitive to cost.

More than 2000 public submissions were made to the Green Paper on the issue at the end of last year. The WA Insurance Commission is reviewing the submissions and will prepare a report for the State Government in the next few months.

Julie Waylen, State Manager of NDS WA, said although the scheme needed urgent introduction, the costing must be independently and transparently reviewed. This should include a breakdown of costs including those allocated to legal, administration, care and support, modifications and travel.

‘’We too have serious concerns about the proposed costs of this reform,’’ she said.

‘’A Productivity Commission report in 2011 estimated costs at $37 per person, or a 15 per cent increase – far lower than $109. What has happened since then?

‘’We have asked for a detailed breakdown of the estimated costs but we have not been given enough information to assess this is any great detail.

‘’We would like to see the levy calcuations released and reviewed publically to justify the cost to be shouldered by motorists.

‘’Because this reform is about more than just the cost to vehicle owners, a critical part of this analysis needs to include further consultation with key stakeholders about exactly how this scheme will work.’’

For further information please contact:

Melissa Kent

Strategic Media Consultant, NDS WA

T: 08 9208 9817

M: 0432 498 445

About NDS WA

NDS WA is the peak industry association representing disability services providers state wide.  Collectively, NDS WA members operate thousands of services for West Australians with all types of disability.

Through three community service programs; ACROD Parking, Companion Card and Community Living and Participation Grants, NDS WA has significant positive impact on the lives of people with disability. Through these programs, more than 70,000 West Australians with a disability get better access to services and supports, are able to confidently attend a venue or event, purchase equipment or participate in a program to support diverse needs. 

Disability Facts

Disability affects one-third of the Western Australian population. An estimated total of 405,500 Western Australians have a disability and approximately 246,800 Western Australians are carers for people with a disability.