An official statement was made on June 11th, 2022, by the new Minister for the NDIS Bill Shorten announcing the NDIA CEO Martin Hoffman would be stepping down from his position.

I have been informed that the Board of the National Disability Insurance Agency and the Chief Executive Officer, Martin Hoffman, have agreed Mr Hoffman will step down effective July 2, 2022.

The controversial boss of the NDIA has quit, leaving his $720,000 a week role after Bill Shorten was sworn in as Disability Minister. He was originally appointed by former minister Stuart Robert in 2019. In April, Mr Shorten said he had not “spoke to anyone in the disability sector who has a good word to say about Mr Hoffman”.

Although Minister Shorten wished Mr Hoffman well in his future endeavours, he has been critical of Hoffman in the past particularly in relation to plans for compulsory independent assessments.

Mr Hoffman apologised to the disability community in June last year for the “fear and concern” caused by an attempt to introduce independent assessments, which the sector labelled a dehumanising exercise in cost cutting.

A statement released on 18th July 2022, announced that the former Victorian premier, Dr Denis Napthine AO resigned as Chair of the NDIA Board. Mr Shorten labelled the appointment of Dr Napthine a “disgrace” when it was announced in February.

During Hoffman’s leadership the scheme grew significantly with now more than 520,000 participants receiving NDIS plans.

“He led the agency with passion, grace and commitment, including managing through the impacts of the COVID pandemic,” Former NDIA chair Denis Napthine said.

Following his resignation, Mr Hoffman said, “It has been an absolute privilege to have served in this role for the last three years.

“I wish the Scheme, and its participants, families, carers, and providers all the very best for the future.

“I thank the amazing staff of the Agency for their dedication and support.”

Deputy CEO for Markets, Government and Engagement Lisa Studdert has now stepped into the role as acting chief while recruitment for the next CEO is in progress.

The disability community is calling for someone with disability to be appointed to the role.

We will announce an update when the next NDIA CEO has been announced.