In The Media | 18 April 2017

Warning: watch out for dodgy operators in NDIS

Disability workers, unions and advocacy groups are raising the alarm over the likelihood that less experienced, less qualified staff, and even dodgy operators could pour into the sector under the National Disability Insurance Scheme.

As concerns mount over the implementation of the Labor-initiated scheme under a Coalition government, many of those in the disability field say they are being told the only way services can be provided on budget is by cutting staff costs, including training and supervision.

The Health and Community Services Union says many of its members working in disability have already been told by providers that they are under extreme pressure to cut costs to meet the NDIS’ strict pricing. They argue this is fuelling a growing casualisation of the disability workforce and cutbacks to supervision and training.

Mr Williams said like many involved in the disability sector, unions were highly supportive of the NDIS, but frustrated over the way it was being implemented.

 

Source: The Sydney Morning Herald