Closing the Gap: What It Means for First Nations People and the NDIS
Closing the gap
At Bridges Alliance, we believe everyone deserves fair access to supports that help them live the life they choose. That’s why we welcome the National Disability Insurance Agency’s (NDIA) renewed commitment to Closing the Gap for First Nations people with disability.
A shared commitment to better outcomes
The NDIA’s Statement of Commitment to Closing the Gap is about making sure First Nations people can access the right supports, at the right time, in a way that feels safe and respectful of culture, community and identity.
This work is part of a national agreement developed in partnership with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations and governments. It recognises that improving outcomes is a shared responsibility—and one that requires listening, learning and working together.
Building a culturally safe NDIS
A key focus of the commitment is creating a more culturally safe NDIS. This means:
Respecting culture, values and community connections
Making services easier to understand and access
Supporting people to make their own choices and build independence
Working in partnership with First Nations communities
At Bridges Alliance, we support these principles by delivering services that are person-centred, inclusive and respectful of cultural diversity.
The First Nations Strategy 2025–2030
The NDIA’s First Nations Strategy sets out a clear plan to improve how the NDIS works for First Nations participants, families and communities over the next five years.
This strategy has been shaped by real voices and lived experiences—including feedback gathered over many years, as well as insights shared through national reviews and inquiries.
Four priority areas for action
The strategy focuses on four key areas:
1. Fair and equitable access
Making it easier for First Nations people to access the NDIS and receive the supports they need in a culturally safe way.
2. Shared decision-making (‘our way’)
Ensuring First Nations people have a stronger voice in how the NDIS is designed and delivered.
3. Better connections across services
Improving how different systems work together so participants experience smoother, more coordinated support.
4. Learning and improving over time
Tracking outcomes, listening to feedback, and continuing to improve the NDIS based on what works.
Turning Strategy into action
Turning the strategy into action
The next step is developing an implementation plan in partnership with First Nations communities. This will focus on:
Local, place-based approaches
Long-term, sustainable change
Community leadership and input
What this means for participants
For First Nations participants, this commitment is about greater choice, better access, and support that respects culture and community.
At Bridges Alliance, we are proud to stand alongside this vision. We remain committed to delivering supports that uphold the NDIS Practice Standards, promote independence, and respect the unique journey of every participant.
If you’d like to learn more about how Bridges Alliance can support you or your loved ones, get in touch with our friendly team today.
FAQ
What is Closing the Gap in the NDIS?
Closing the Gap is a national commitment to improve outcomes for First Nations people, including better access to disability supports through the NDIS.
What is culturally safe disability support?
Culturally safe support respects a person’s identity, culture, community and lived experience, ensuring they feel safe, heard and understood.
How does the NDIS support First Nations participants?
The NDIS aims to provide fair access, tailored supports and improved pathways that reflect the needs of First Nations people and their communities.
What is the First Nations Strategy 2025–2030?
It’s a plan by the NDIA to improve how the NDIS delivers services to First Nations participants through equity, community input and better coordination.
How does Bridges Alliance support First Nations participants?
Bridges Alliance delivers inclusive, person-centred supports that respect cultural identity and promote independence, choice and community connection.
