NDS CEO Laurie Leigh today appeared at the hearing of the Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability, and provided evidence on the topic of supported employment, along with NDS Head of Employment Kerrie Langford.

NDS acknowledges reform for the sector is needed, however supported employment should remain a valid choice for those who need the additional support it offers.

We must strike the right balance between open and supported employment to ensure people with disability are given personal choice.

Supported employment provides social, caring communities for those who would otherwise miss out and we have seen the positive impact it has on the lives of Australians with disabilities.

We will continue to work with industry to evolve and develop and are committed to improved wage outcomes for supported employees and we call on the Federal Government to support the sector through this transition.