Educational support for students with disabilities—including extra exam assistance, rest breaks, and specialized accommodations—has surged across every Australian state and territory, a trend strongly linked to greater awareness around mental health and the expansion of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).
By Paul Karp – Financial Review
The Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority reports significant growth in disability-related exam support over the past decade. Experts attribute this to the NDIS’s influence, with more students being formally diagnosed and qualifying for funded assistance.
In New South Wales, for example, almost one in seven HSC students now receive adjustments—most commonly rest breaks to manage pain, anxiety, or concentration challenges. While many view this as a positive stride toward inclusive education, critics caution that disparities exist—non-government schools tend to offer more generous accommodations, raising questions of equity.
What This Means for Disability Connect Readers:
- 🧑🎓 Access & equity gains: NDIS funding removes barriers for many students with mental health and cognitive conditions.
- ⚖️ Persistent inequality: Differential access by school type means not all students benefit equally.
- 🎯 Opportunity for reform: Inclusion must extend beyond diagnosis to ensure fair, consistent support across public and private settings.
Key Takeaways for Parents, Educators & Advocates
- Be proactive in assessment: Engage early with mental health professionals and school support teams to determine NDIS eligibility.
- Understand rights and supports: Know what the NDIS covers—including exam adjustments, rest periods, and classroom aids—compared to what schools are legally required to provide.
- Push for system-wide consistency: Advocate for a standard baseline of support across all schooling sectors to ensure every student has a fair chance.
Bottom line:
The NDIS has undeniably expanded access to vital exam support—representing a major step for educational inclusion. But achieving true equity will require bridging gaps between sectors and ensuring that every student, regardless of school type, can benefit from these accommodations.