New NDIA CEO to shape future of scheme

The Australian Government has today announced Mr. Graeme Head AO as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA). The NDIA Board, headed by Chair Kurt Fearnley AO, appointed Mr. Head for a 3-year term following an extensive national recruitment process.

Mr. Head brings decades of experience in public administration and social policy to the role. He previously served as the inaugural National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) Quality and Safeguards Commissioner from 2018 to 2021. In his current role as Secretary of the New South Wales Department of Customer Service, Mr. Head has championed the needs of consumers, working to streamline service delivery.

Graeme Head, newly announced CEO of the National Disability Insurance Agency

As CEO of the NDIA, he will be responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the agency, including the administration of the NDIS. He will also work closely with the NDIA Board to ensure the scheme can continue to deliver for people with disabilities and their families. Mr. Head has been appointed following the conclusion of the current CEO’s term. Rebecca Falkingham PSM has held the position since October 2022. He will commence the role on 24 November 2025.

**Reflecting on the Current Situation for NDIS Participants**

The appointment of Mr. Head comes at a critical time for the NDIS. Recent media coverage, including the ABC Four Corners program, has highlighted ongoing issues within the system, such as the abuse and neglect of people with disabilities. These incidents underscore the urgent need for reform and stronger safeguards to protect the rights and dignity of NDIS participants.

The Disability Royal Commission has provided a platform for people with disabilities, their families, and advocates to share their experiences and call for systemic change. The Commission's findings have revealed significant gaps in the current system, including inadequate support for people with complex needs and insufficient consequences for providers who fail to meet standards.

**Path Forward for Reform**

Mr. Head's leadership will be crucial in addressing these challenges and implementing the necessary reforms to strengthen the NDIS. His experience as the former NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commissioner positions him well to lead these efforts. Key areas of focus will include:

1. **Enhancing Safeguards and Accountability:** Ensuring that providers who do the wrong thing face appropriate consequences and that the system prioritizes the safety and well-being of participants.

2. **Improving Support for Complex Needs:** Designing the NDIS with people with complex support needs at the center, ensuring they are not an afterthought but a priority.

3. **Strengthening Advocacy and Communication:** Enhancing the role of independent advocates and improving communication with participants, particularly those in group homes or with communication support needs.

4. **Implementing Royal Commission Recommendations:** Taking decisive action on the recommendations from the Disability Royal Commission to create a more inclusive and accessible system.

**Quotes Attributable to Minister Butler:**

“I’m pleased to welcome Mr. Head as CEO of the NDIA. His leadership will be crucial as we deliver the reforms needed to strengthen the NDIS and ensure it continues to improve the lives of Australians with disabilities.”

“I also thank Ms. Falkingham for her significant contribution during a period of major transformation and wish her every success in the future.”

**Quotes Attributable to NDIS Minister Jenny McAllister:**

“Graeme Head will provide the strong and experienced leadership of the NDIA that NDIS participants expect. His distinguished career speaks for itself, and his expertise will be invaluable as we continue to reform the scheme.”

**Quotes Attributable to Mr. Graeme Head:**

“I am very excited to be given the opportunity to play this significant role in the NDIA as key reforms to the Scheme are being shaped and rolled out.”

The path forward for the NDIS requires a commitment to listening to the voices of people with disabilities and their families, learning from past mistakes, and making the necessary changes to ensure a more inclusive and supportive system for all.