Capacity Building goals in young people with cerebral palsy in Australia: Analysis of publicly available National disability Insurance Scheme data

Background

The Australian National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) aims to provide person-centred care for individuals with disabilities, promoting independence and societal participation. Capacity Building supports are critical for young adults with cerebral palsy (CP) to develop essential lifelong skills.

Methods

A retrospective cross-sectional analysis was conducted using publicly available NDIS Participant and Payment datasets from the June 2023 quarter. Data for young adults with CP aged 15–34 years were extracted and analysed to examine characteristics and funding allocations for Capacity Building goals, with comparisons to peers with Down syndrome and spinal cord injury (SCI).

Results

99.5 % (n = 6,273) of NDIS participants aged 15–34 with CP identified at least one Capacity Building goal, totalling 110,234 goals. Average annual payments for Capacity Building supports increased with age, from $27,000 for those aged 15–18 to $59,000 for those aged 25–34. The most frequent Capacity Building goals identified were ‘Daily Living’, ‘Social and Community Participation’, and ‘Health and Wellbeing’. Variations were observed in the types and funding allocation of Capacity Building supports accessed by young adults with CP compared to peers with Down syndrome and SCI.

Conclusion

This study highlights variability in NDIS funding allocation for young adults with CP as they transition into adulthood, emphasising the need for tailored funding strategies. Individualised goal setting and supports align with international best practices, enhancing independence and quality of life. Further research is needed to evaluate the outcomes of NDIS-funded supports, ensure equitable resource distribution, and inform global discussions on inclusive policies for people with disabilities.