A NEW Disability Workforce Hub has opened its doors in Mount Gambier to help meet growing calls for workers within the sector.
Funded by the Department of State Development, the Limestone Coast Disability Workforce Hub is one of six sites across the state in conjunction with the rollout of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).
The NDIS is a new way of delivering services and support for people with permanent disability in Australia after it was predicted the demand for disability services in the Limestone Coast is projected to rise from 654 clients to around 1300 participants.
Disability Workforce Hub coordinator Melissa Hunter said around 275 additional workers are needed in the region and the push in on the secure a sufficient and diverse workforce supply to fill allied health, direct care positions, ancillary roles and self-employment options.
“The current local workforce is expected to increase from between 150 to 200 full-time equivalent workers to up to 500 by 2018/19, however the actual number is expected to be higher with casual and part-time positions,” she said.
“If you are looking for work, thinking about returning to work, want to increase your hours or wish to change careers to work in the disability sector, there are considerable opportunities out there.”
Regional Development Australia Limestone Coast will operate the Disability Workforce Hub from its Jubilee Highway headquarters, but service delivery will extend to all seven local government areas in the region.
“The hub will contribute to building workforce capacity and capability by connecting job seekers with local employers, training providers and employment agencies to help full job opportunities,” Ms Hunter said.
