Job-matching a boost to sector

The State Government this week announced a new National Disability Insurance Scheme job-matching service to support the disability sector and address skills and recruitment needs in the South West from October 1.

Busselton’s South Regional TAFE campus is working with stakeholders to meet industry demand while prospective students can apply for Certificates II, III and IV in Disability Care at the Bunbury campus for half the usual fee.

Non-government organisation National Disability Services will also seek to engage and upskill people with disability for careers in disability services.

Disability Services Minister Stephen Dawson said the service would identify workforce needs and assist in providing access to “trained and skilled” staff.

“People living with a disability in the South West region will benefit from an increase in NDIS staff that have the specialist skills and personal attributes needed to deliver quality support services,” he said.

“The program will also partner with employers to connect people interested in joining the disability care workforce with government initiatives, including through relevant short courses and full qualifications.”

Other services will include identifying courses and training opportunities for existing workers to improve their skills and help employers access available incentives.

Forrest Personnel chief executive Anna Bagshaw applauded the job matching service for supporting the disability sector.

“We continue to grow our NDIS program so there is no doubt there will be more demand for workers,” she said.

“Our primary focus around the NDIS is employment and whatever that looks like for the person when they come to us with an NDIS plan.

“When a work opportunity arises as a result of NDIS plans, we first look to the participants we have on our current caseload and aim to match skill sets to the opportunity.”

Workers with health conditions, injuries and disabilities can take up disability work.

For more information on the program visit nds.org.au.