NDIA Pricing Arrangement Reference Group (PARG) Membership - Independent Member

⁠⁠⁠Overview

The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) is seeking to appoint up to four independent members to the Pricing Arrangement Reference Group (PARG). This opportunity is being administered by Services Australia.

About

The NDIA uses evidence-based pricing assessments and reviews to balance participant outcomes, provider viability, and scheme sustainability. PARG does not have decision-making authority; responsibility for pricing policy, recommendations, priorities, and final decisions remains with the NDIA.

The National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Securing the NDIS for Future Generations) Bill 2026 has been introduced, proposing powers relating to pricing determinations and NDIA advice to the Minister on pricing matters.

Purpose

PARG's role is to provide independent expert advice and peer review on NDIS pricing policy and arrangements. PARG is an independent advisory and peer-review body, not a decision-making body, and its primary purpose is to strengthen the quality, transparency, and evidence base of NDIA pricing analysis and recommendations through expert review and constructive challenge.

The Role

Members will provide feedback on pricing methodologies, analysis, findings and proposed recommendations. Members are expected to attend up to eight meetings per year. Further details are set out in the Terms of Reference.

Key Functions

PARG provides review and feedback on:

• Pricing methodologies and assumptions
• Analysis and findings
• Proposed recommendations
• Terms of Reference
• Consultation papers
• Annual Pricing Review reports
• Consultation feedback reports
• Other pricing-related documentation under the NDIA pricing work program

Membership

• Comprises up to four independent members
• Chaired by NDIA personnel
• Members are appointed based on expertise for terms of up to three years, with the possibility of reappointment
• Recruitment is through an open, merit-based selection process at the NDIA's discretion

Meetings and Remuneration

• Meetings are held as required via videoconference
• The NDIA provides secretariat support, agendas, papers, minutes, and action tracking
• A quorum is three members including the Chair
• Independent members are paid per meeting according to their contracts
• Members are expected to prepare for meetings and contribute collaboratively
• Certain full-time state government office holders and employees are not entitled to remuneration

Conflicts of Interest and Confidentiality

• Members must sign a Confidentiality Deed
• Actual, potential, or perceived conflicts of interest must be disclosed promptly
• Appropriate mitigation measures will be used to preserve the integrity and independence of advice

Role Requirements

Desired Expertise

The group should collectively demonstrate:

• Independent and objective judgement
• Strong analytical and critical review skills
• Experience interpreting quantitative and qualitative evidence
• Understanding of policy, regulation, service delivery and market environments
• Knowledge of pricing, funding, reform or regulatory initiatives
• Awareness of implementation and operational considerations affecting pricing changes

Conditions for Participation

Respondents must demonstrate relevant expertise and experience in one or more of the following areas:

• Ability to exercise independent and objective judgement in the provision of advice and peer review
• Strong analytical skills, including the ability to provide constructive review and advice on assumptions, methodologies, findings and recommendations
• Experience critically reviewing and interpreting from a range of quantitative and qualitative sources
• Understanding of the broader policy, regulatory, service delivery and market environment relevant to the care and support economy context
• Experience contributing to, reviewing or advising on significant policy, regulatory, funding, pricing or reform initiatives
• Understanding of implementation, operational or market considerations that may influence the feasibility and effectiveness of proposed pricing changes

Contract Terms and Conditions

• Indicative commencement: 28 September 2026
• The contractual term is three years, ending 28 September 2029

Enquiries

Contact Officer, email: tenders@ndis.gov.au