6 September 2024
Life Without Barriers extends our sincere appreciation to the Hon. Bill Shorten MP following his announcement today to retire from the Federal Parliament in February 2025.
Throughout his career, Mr. Shorten has been a driving force for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). His leadership and unyielding commitment have been crucial in transforming disability support services across Australia, which he has championed since he was a junior minister in 2009.
In his own words, Mr. Shorten emphasised “The NDIS represents what’s best about this country. It fulfills a sense of collective responsibility – the essence of the fair go – and is integral to our national identity. Its value is measured in human terms, not economic. People with disability should have the support they need to participate in the community.”
CEO of Life Without Barriers, Claire Robbs said “We thank Mr. Shorten for his considerable service in Federal Parliament over nearly two decades, particularly for his role in advancing the NDIS and improving the lives of people with disability.”
“Life Without Barriers will continue to advocate to ensure people with a disability remain at the heart of decision-making in the design of the NDIS.” added Claire Robbs, CEO of Life Without Barriers.
“There is more work to do to ensure the NDIS is informed by and serving the very participants the scheme was designed for.” Ms Robbs said.
Under Mr. Shorten’s stewardship, the NDIS has achieved substantial milestones, bringing about transformative changes that continues to benefit many individuals and families across Australia.
“On behalf of Life Without Barriers, we express our gratitude to Mr. Shorten for his service and advocacy. We wish him all the best in his next role.”
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