4 June 2026
Catholic Social Services Australia (CSSA) today calls on the Australian Government to support a more robust, comprehensive, and transparent enquiry into two significant legislative matters: the proposed changes to taxation arrangements, and the reform of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).
In recent years, there has been a positive rise in public demand for transparency and good governance in legislative processes. This trend strengthens our democracy by ensuring that reforms are well-considered, effective, and reflective of community needs. Legislation and reform are invariably stronger when debate and enquiry are given the time and rigour they deserve.
“The Senate Committee system is one of the strongest pillars of our democratic Parliamentary framework,” said Dr Jerry Nockles, CEO of CSSA. “It must be allowed to do its work thoroughly and without undue pressure to rush decisions. Robust scrutiny and open dialogue are essential to crafting policies that serve the common good.”
Dr Nockles also reflected on the recent remarks by Pope Leo XIV concerning the importance of truth in governance. “The Pope’s emphasis on truth in his encyclical resonates deeply with our call for transparency. Truth is the foundation of trust between government and citizens, and it is only through honest and open enquiry that we can build policies that truly reflect the needs of all Australians.”
Highlighting the human dimension of the NDIS reforms, Dr Nockles added, “The people impacted by NDIS reform are among the most vulnerable in our community. Any changes must be approached with the utmost rigour and transparency to ensure their dignity and wellbeing are protected. There is no room for haste or opacity when lives and futures are at stake.”
The current discussions around taxation and NDIS reform are complex and far-reaching. CSSA urges the Government to embrace a process that respects democratic principles and allows for comprehensive examination by parliamentary committees.
“Good government is not about haste; it is about integrity and accountability,” Dr Nockles added. “We encourage political leaders to support a transparent and appropriate enquiry process that honours these values and builds for the common good.”
ENDS
Read the media release here