The Australian Government is investing in the future careers of disability workers by announcing $375,000 in grant funding for a recruitment initiative and leadership diploma, which aims to upskill young people entering the disability workforce.  

The $300,000 workforce recruitment initiative, ‘Growing a skilled disability support workforce,’ will reshape public perception and spotlight disability support work as a rewarding career path.

Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), Bill Shorten, said the initiative will highlight the fulfillment that comes from providing vital services and having a positive impact on the lives of people with disability.

“This initiative celebrates Australians with disabilities as active, contributing members of their communities and seeks to elevate understanding of the significant role support workers play,” Minister Shorten said.

“Through this initiative, we aim to inspire a new wave of compassionate, dedicated individuals to join the disability support worker ranks, enriching their own lives and those they support.”

The National Workforce Collaboration group lead by the Young People in Nursing Homes National Alliance will deliver the recruitment initiative that targets school leavers, professionals considering a career shift, and the wider community.

The Government has also announced disability provider advocate AbilityFirst will receive $75,000 in funding to continue its accreditation of the Diploma of Leadership in Disability Services, including management and evaluation of the program.

The Diploma of Leadership in Disability Services addresses the needs of frontline leaders and emerging leaders, helping to build workforce capability, workforce attraction, retention, and career development.  
“Leadership is as important in the disability sector as it is in any other, and the Government is committed to building a professional, experienced workforce,” Minister Shorten said.
“The future of the disability workforce, and for all people with disability will be brighter, when we have more leaders with the capability to drive the sector forward.”

For information about the ‘Growing a skilled disability support workforce’ initiative, contact Sheryl Boniface, Project Manager, National Workforce Collaboration at [email protected].

Information about the Diploma of Leadership in Disability Services is available on the AbilityFirst website.