Diverse group of professionals in a modern conference room seated around a long wooden table, listening to a presenter on a large screen. (informative)

The Cultural and Linguistic Diversity (CALD) Expert Advisory Group held an online meeting on Tuesday, 10 March 2026.

The group was established by the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) in 2024 to provide expert knowledge and advice aimed at improving the experiences and outcomes of CALD people with disability within the NDIS.

Below is a summary of the key discussion points from the meeting:

1. CALD Engagement Insight Report

The NDIA presented a report detailing the experiences of the CALD community with the NDIS, based on engagement activities conducted between October and December 2025.

  • Purpose: The report is intended to provide a clear picture of what participants from diverse backgrounds are saying about the scheme.

  • Member Feedback: The advisory group suggested changes to make the report easier to understand and more accessible.

  • Ongoing Updates: The NDIA sought feedback on whether the group would like to receive a similar insight report at every meeting.

2. CALD Expert Advisory Group Website Content

The NDIA proposed publishing specific details about the advisory group on the official NDIS website to increase transparency. The information to be shared includes:

  • The role and purpose of the group.

  • A list of current members.

  • Summaries of formal meetings.

  • Outcome: Members supported the proposal to make these details public.

3. CALD Strategy 2024–2028 Action Review

The group discussed the ongoing review of the Action Plan associated with the CALD Strategy. This review aims to:

  • Clarify actions: Ensure all goals and responsibilities are well-defined.

  • Align with reforms: Ensure the strategy remains relevant as the NDIS undergoes broader system changes.

  • Member Feedback: Members emphasized that the NDIA must remain focused on the core priorities of the CALD Strategy and ensure that actions remain applicable to both current and future planning frameworks.

Next Steps

The NDIA will continue to work with members on the action review outside of formal sessions. The next formal meeting of the CALD Expert Advisory Group is scheduled for Tuesday, 2 June 2026.