TAFE NSW and the Physical Disability Council of NSW are encouraging people to consider undertaking fee-free training in disability support courses to help meet an unprecedented demand for workers in the Hunter.
The sector is Australia’s fastest growing, with the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) National Workforce Plan indicating an additional 83,000 workers will be needed to meet demand in the next two years.
TAFE NSW’s Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability) is currently free to eligible people under JobTrainer to help bolster the NDIS workforce in NSW.
Physical Disability Council of NSW CEO Serena Ovens said there has never been a better time to consider a career in the disability services sector.
“There is a crucial need for more disability support workers in NSW communities, particularly in regional and remote areas, and TAFE NSW is key to meeting future workforce demand,” Ms Ovens said.
“By 2024, it is forecast that around 500,000 people will be accessing the NDIS across Australia. We need thousands more trained, skilled workers who can hit the ground running to ensure people with disability can access the essential services they need. This course is a great way to start.”
The Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability) includes training to empower clients to reach their independence and social inclusion goals, and to provide individualised support to increase client skills and community participation.
TAFE NSW Head Teacher of Community Services Vicki Field said the entry-level qualification provided practical, hands-on training so that thousands of NDIS participants to access the individual support services they need.
“With the JobTrainer subsidy now available, this is an excellent opportunity for anyone thinking about starting a new career or changing careers to join the disability services sector,” Ms Field said.
“The work is incredibly rewarding and TAFE NSW offers a nationally recognised qualification you can take with you anywhere. There is also plenty of scope for career progression.
“If you’ve ever considered working in the industry, our free training options offer people a unique opportunity right now to step up and help make a difference in people’s lives.”
TAFE NSW Glendale graduate Zoe Grant completed the Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability) last year and is now working at ConnectAbility Australia at Warabrook where she completed her work placement.
“After 12 years in customer service, I chose disability support to play to my strengths as a social person who likes human connection and helping others,” said Zoe.
“I loved studying at TAFE NSW. The teachers had industry experience and connections which made you feel like you had insider knowledge before you started work. They were flexible and caring, and those are the attributes you need for disability support work.
“I learned valuable practical skills during the course which I’ve taken with me to my role, including first aid and how to safety transfer people with a disability, and I most enjoyed the work around diversity and inclusion.
“It really helped me to learn about other perspectives and to first consider what motivates and interests my clients.”
For more information visit www.tafensw.edu.au or phone 131 601.
