Community leaders and National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) participants from Ipswich, Lockyer, Scenic Rim and Somerset are gathering in Ipswich on May 30/31 to learn how the NDIS will bring significant opportunity to people in the region.

Disability Services Minister Coralee O’Rourke said soon to be NDIS participants were already preparing to take advantage of opportunities the NDIS would bring and encouraged local businesses to find out more.

“When the NDIS is fully rolled out, it will contribute to an estimated $360 million into the region’s economy each year, to help around 8,000 people with disability,” Mrs O’Rourke said.

“This could support up to 1,750 additional jobs in the region, and those looking for an exciting career opportunity will have plenty of choice in the disability services sector.

“Businesses will have opportunity to branch out as demand grows, and should consider tailoring to the demand for new exciting services people with disability are looking for.

“Those visiting the NDIS Expo today will soon be dictating their own plans, looking for all types of services like gyms and personal training, recreation and holiday activities, financial services and employment and training.

“This is a great place to open up a dialogue to let businesses know exactly what services are needed in Ipswich, and a great place to spot a new niche in the market.

Member for Ipswich West, Jim Madden said that existing users of Queensland Government disability services in the Ipswich, Lockyer, Scenic Rim and Somerset can access the NDIS now, earlier than originally expected which is great news for the community.

“I was pleased to hear last week the Queensland Government, in conjunction with the Commonwealth, have brought the rollout forward for existing service users in the area which means the NDIA will be able to approve participant plans now.”

Mr Madden said that as well as supporting successful implementation of the NDIS in Queensland, the Queensland Government was also working to create more inclusive communities across the state, to increase opportunities for people with disability.

The NDIS has started rolling out this week in Ipswich, Lockyer, Scenic Rim and Somerset areas. To register as a service provider for the NDIS visit www.ndis.gov.au or call on 1800 800 110.

Source
Minister for Disability Services, Minister for Seniors and Minister Assisting the Premier on North Queensland
The Honourable Coralee O’Rourke

See also: All Abilities Inclusion