NDS recently provided a submission to the Minister for Disability, Ageing, and Carers, Anthony Carbines MP, and the Victorian Government calling for a number of funded initiatives to support the disability sector and improve the lives of Victorians with disabilities.

After enduring prolonged hardships under COVID-19, NDS encouraged the Victorian Government to use the state budget as an opportunity to help the disability sector to improve as well as rebuild. The submission calls for funded initiatives in housing, employment, civic inclusion, transport and justice, which will create a more inclusive community for all Victorians.

Investment in a disability workforce supply strategy as well as updates and expansion of the Zero Tolerance initiative were both included. The submission also sought recognition of NDS’s key role as a promoter of best practice and its bridging role between the state government and the disability sector.

The Victorian State budget submission also calls upon the Victorian Government to review its role in the complex regulatory environment for service providers, noting areas of duplicative safeguarding regulations, which should be addressed.

We also call for the development of suitable tenancy arrangements for Victorians with disability, and greater support for Victorian workers accessing the NDIS worker screening clearance.