On the 25th of August 2024, the responses to the DRAFT NDIS Supports List closed. Outdoors NSW & ACT Limited submitted a response on behalf of its members, emphasising a crucial oversight in the current draft. The response highlighted the importance of nature-based therapies, which have long provided health and well-being benefits to the broader population. We believe that the exclusion of these therapies from NDIS support is a short-sighted decision that needs to be reconsidered.
Championing Health and Well-Being Through Nature
The outdoor industry, as represented by Outdoors NSW & ACT, plays a vital role in promoting health and well-being by providing access to nature. This is not just for the adventurous or the physically active; it’s for everyone, regardless of age or ability. Our response to the DRAFT NDIS Supports List was driven by a profound concern: the exclusion of nature-based therapies from NDIS support overlooks the substantial benefits these services provide, both physically and mentally.
The Role of Outdoors NSW & ACT
As the state peak body for Outdoor Recreation, Outdoor Education, Adventure Tourism, and Outdoor Therapy in NSW and the ACT, Outdoors NSW & ACT represents a diverse and growing workforce of 57,003 people (as of January 2024). Among these sectors, Outdoor Therapy stands out as the fastest growing, driven by the increasing need for effective solutions to combat the rise in mental health issues across our communities. Our outdoor therapists serve people of all ages, and the results are consistent and compelling.
Evidence-Informed Nature-Based Therapies
It is crucial to recognise the evidence-informed nature of these therapies. The difference that nature interventions can make is profound, benefiting both healthy individuals and those dealing with various health challenges. We have requested that ‘Wilderness Therapy’ be removed from the excluded list and that the full range of effective outdoor health, well-being, and therapy services continue to be available to NDIS participants.
Addressing Misconceptions
We want to clarify that Outdoors NSW & ACT does not endorse unethical, non-evidence-based involuntary ‘Wilderness boot camps’ that are designed to be coercive and can harm participants and staff. These models do not reflect the practices of our members, who adhere to the Australian Adventurous Activity Standard and associated Good Practice Guides for best practices in the outdoors.
Collaboration and Support
Outdoors NSW & ACT, along with our National Peak Body, the Outdoor Council of Australia, is willing to assist in the vetting process of therapy practices. We can help the department design an approval process for the inclusion of these therapies, similar to the process we use for other stakeholders in our sector.
Ignoring the Evidence is Not an Option
The exclusion of wilderness therapy disregards a growing body of evidence demonstrating the health benefits and cost-effectiveness of outdoor-based therapies in Australia. The benefits are far-reaching, including improvements in cardiovascular, respiratory, and immune health, greater mobility, better sleep, enhanced mood, reduced stress, improved cognitive function, and stronger social connections.
A Call to Action
We respectfully urge the federal government to reconsider its position on the exclusion of nature-based therapies. We are eager to engage in a constructive dialogue and work collaboratively towards a resolution that supports the needs of the community. Our goal is to improve the health and well-being of all Australians, and we believe that nature-based therapies are an essential part of achieving that goal.
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