NDS in WA Year in Review 2019/20

NDS in WA has supported our members across our vast state through an unprecedented year.

In 2019-20, we have responded with timely, accurate advice and support during the pandemic; advocated for sound policies; promoted the value of quality and safe services; assisted members in preparing for the NDIS Quality and Safeguarding Framework; and provided training & development resources.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the disability sector, creating high levels of uncertainty for people with disability, service providers and the workforce and adding another layer of complexity to a sector already feeling the strain of several years of system and policy change.

We have worked closely with the NDIA and mainstream government agencies that provide critical services in support of people with disability, including the Departments of the Premier and Cabinet, Public Sector Commission, Treasury, Finance, Training and Workforce Development, Housing, Transport, Health, Child Protection, Mental Health Commission and Education. Our members have been directly involved in providing input and policy advice on a range of issues through our NDS subcommittees.

NDS in WA supports committees on access and inclusion, accommodation and housing, clinical and allied health, employment, finance and sustainability and workforce. We have also supported communities of practice in Quality and Safeguarding and Training, a peer-to-peer network for small to medium specialist disability service providers and established an NDIS Provider Support Network. NDS in WA also supports CORDS – the Council of Regional Disability Service organisations.

NDS is fortunate to receive a range of grants from State and Commonwealth Governments and Lotterywest. Our project work includes researching and developing solutions to challenges faced by people with disability in employment, supporting people to be active community members and improving service quality and safety. NDS in WA recognises that social and economic participation helps build inclusive communities. We could not do this important work without funding support.

The disability sector is experiencing rapid growth with new jobs and higher demand for services, there are great opportunities to provide economic stimulus while also building social capital and improving the everyday lives of people with disability.

As we look to full NDIS rollout in WA, it is time to take action to ensure the future of disability services in this State is clear, purposeful and appropriately resourced.