Workforce Design and the NDIS

With the government set to invest billions and formally roll out the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) in the new financial year, the spotlight has been burning bright on the social sector. Conversations with clients we work with has been for the most part positive. It is an empowering initiative.

The NDIS gives greater choice and control to those who live with disabilities and aims to support a better life for hundreds of thousands of Australians with a significant and permanent disability and their families and carers.

While the consumer is set to benefit from the reform, the significant impact upon the providers of these services and in particular those working within the sector is clear.

The financial ramifications of funding gaps and increased competition within the sector will force unprecedented changes across community organisations in Australia, with the urgency to review workforce strategies and organisational design especially high.

The Public Service Association has predicted that many carers within Ageing Disability and Home Care staff will leave the sector due to concerns regarding lower wages and less stable working conditions. Skilled workers are now forced to ask themselves: Do they stay in disability or do they go elsewhere?

While there is no easy solution for employers in the social services sectors, there are steps we can put in place to avoid imploding. Utilising flexible working arrangements and the gig economy while taking advantage of opportunities created by the NDIS rollout and the ageing population structure will ensure we are focussed on developing a workforce that is fit for purpose.

At Johnson Recruitment we are social sector specialists. Our close partnerships with organisations in the social sector allow us to fully grasp the impact of policy change both to the business and to those working within it. At our heart, we are consultants and work with organisations around designing a flexible workforce that is equipped to withstand the future uncertainty of the NDIS.

If you would like to discuss your organisational design and how to introduce workplace flexibility, please contact us on 03 9946 7320 or info@johnsonrecruitment.com.au.