Conclusion

The Government has listened to the concerns of people with disabilities who are looking for work and/or other ways of participating in their communities, and to those providing services. Our intention is to build the capacity of the sector in a planned, coherent way to ensure more effective delivery of services. The measures outlined in this document will be progressively implemented over the next five years as resources allow. New funding ($3.98 million) was allocated in the recent Budget (May 2001) to help build the capacity of the sector. People with disabilities have the same right to participate in their communities as other citizens, particularly through employment opportunities. There will be no compromise on this fundamental principle.

Key Facts

  • The Department of Work and Income currently has contracts with about 180 service providers.
  • DWI annual budget for vocational services - approximately $60 million.
  • In most cases DWI provides partial funding contributions, which providers supplement from other funding sources.
  • Some providers, such as Workbridge and IHC are national organisations; most are local, community-based providers.
  • The number of people accessing vocational services through DWI funding is approximately 22,000.
  • At present only a minority of services are focused on paid employment outcomes. For many years the range of services currently funded have been known as:
    • Day activities.
    • Vocational training.
    • Sheltered work.
    • Supported employment.
    • Open employment placement.
    • Job support.
    • Self-employment support.
    • Training support.
    • Funding for identified school leavers with very high support