Australia's NDIS reform set to clear parliament after Coalition deal

Australia's government has secured passage of its disputed National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) reform through the Senate overnight, following a deal struck between Labor and the opposition Coalition. Health and NDIS minister Mark Butler said 63 government amendments were introduced across both houses of parliament to win the Coalition's backing for changes aimed at reining in the scheme's spending.

The bill is expected to clear the lower house later today, completing its passage through parliament. Butler was doing media rounds following the deal to discuss the outcome.

Other political developments

The government also secured support for a separate gambling bill in the same 24-hour period. Meanwhile, debate continues over access to superannuation savings, with politician Pauline Hanson pushing for easier early access to retirement funds so people can cover living costs. She has clashed with treasurer Jim Chalmers, accusing him of misrepresenting her position as favouring scrapping the scheme entirely.

Economics commentators are examining whether allowing earlier access to superannuation would be workable and beneficial for people facing financial pressure.