MEDIA RELEASE - NDIS

Monday 15 Apr 2019

Today’s announcement that a Shorten Labor Government will pilot a new approach to training workers under the NDIS is a big step towards better services and support for people with a disability, their families and carers.

Australian Services Union NSW & ACT Secretary Natalie Lang said the initial pilot sites of Perth, Canberra and Townsville will provide learnings that can be used across the broader national workforce in the future.

“Workers in the sector have been campaigning hard for better training and development so they can develop careers in the NDIS.

“We’re looking for this new workforce development approach to be rolled out nationally and the pilot sites are the first step toward that.

“The Morrison Government has bragged about the money it’s saved this year on the NDIS but the reality is that money has been taken straight out of the pockets of people with a disability to prop up their budget bottom line.

“The plan announced today is a refreshing change – it includes free induction courses, free certificate III and ongoing professional development for all NDIS workers.

“We wouldn’t allow our children to be taught by unqualified teachers and you wouldn’t allow a family member to treated by an unqualified nurse. People with disability should have the same right to a qualified, professional workforce.

“Importantly, workers will be paid for their time to complete study so they don’t have to choose between a shift or further training to gain a specialisation and career path.”

Ms Lang said the announcement recognised the way that disability workers are employed has changed with the NDIS

“This is a much more modern approach to workforce development - it applies to all NDIS workers whether they are in full time, permanent jobs, have multiple employers or work a sole trader.”

“People with disability deserve a sustainable, high quality NDIS – that can only be delivered by a skilled workforce who have secure jobs and career paths. Investing in training and the workforce who are the heart and soul of the NDIS is long overdue.”