The abilityNEWS Daily
The Big Story
Inquiry into Disability Services
A multi-year investigation by the Fair Work Ombudsman is underway, targeting the systemic underpayment and confusion in disability support services. Employers and workers are being asked to speak up.
The disability support sector has become a casualty of its own complexity.
Workers are underpaid. Employers are overwhelmed. And not even the Fair Work Ombudsman pretends to fully understand the Award meant to protect them all.
Now someone’s finally paying attention, but it won’t be a quick fix.
In what it calls a “multi-year inquiry”, the Fair Work Ombudsman has begun investigating the employment practices of disability support providers across the country. It’s not a targeted crackdown. But it is a recognition of widespread problems across a sector defined by high demand, high staff turnover, and low margins.
“We’ve seen large-scale non-compliance,” the Ombudsman’s statement concedes. “People aren’t being paid properly.”
The problem isn’t just rogue employers. It’s a perfect storm: rapid sector growth, unstable funding, and a byzantine industrial award that few understand and fewer can implement. The Social, Community, Home Care and Disability Services Industry Award (SCHADS) has become a byword for ambiguity. But arcane awards are just the sort of thing that excites former Uniob official Anna Booth.
Now Ombudsman, she says the inquiry will begin by listening. Employers, employees, contractors and participants will all be asked about their experience. But enforcement will follow. And the implications will be serious.
The Briefing
Launching the NCDA’s Advocacy Sector Workforce Survey Results
by Disability Advocacy Network Australia
The National Centre for Disability Advocacy has released findings from its 2024 survey, capturing workforce trends across Australia's disability advocacy sector. As demand for services continues to grow, experience and expertise remain vital. 77% of organisations have reported increased demand over the past 12 months, and 35% said demand had surged by 26% or more. In many cases, demand has outpaced available resources, with 69% of respondents listing unmet demand as the most challenging aspect of their work. One in three respondents identified as a person with disability and 37% provide unpaid care for a person with disability. The report highlights rising demand and recruitment challenges amid growing concerns over sector sustainability.
World-first study uses DNA to investigate who develops MS and why
by Multiple Sclerosis Australia
Researchers have launched a pioneering DNA study to understand who is more likely to develop multiple sclerosis. The project aims to uncover genetic and environmental links that influence disease onset and progression.
Australian researchers lead at world’s largest childhood disability congress
by Cerebral Palsy Alliance
Australian researchers are at the forefront of the world’s largest congress focused on improving outcomes for children with disabilities. The global event highlights Australia’s leadership in advancing childhood disability research and clinical practice.
Making Aged Care work for Older People with Disability
by Multiple Sclerosis Australia
MS Australia highlights ongoing challenges faced by older people with disability navigating the aged care system. The organisation urges reforms to ensure dignity, independence and tailored support for this growing population.
Adapting Toys
The Wrap
Why the Disability Support Pension's partner income test is once again under scrutiny
by ABC JJJ
Advocates are calling for the removal of the partner income test from the Disability Support Pension, which they say puts people with a disability at risk of financial abuse. A spokesperson from the Department of Social Services says partner income testing is based on the principle that couples are able to pool their resources and share living costs.
VIDEO: Coaching Athletes with Intellectual Disability of Autism: What You Need to Know
by Australian Athletics
Understanding how to support athletes with intellectual disability (ID) or autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is essential for creating positive and inclusive track and field environments. In conjunction with Special Olympics Australia, we recenty hosted a webinar providing practical coaching strategies and insight into how these athletes may experience athletics.
Scott McNaughton steps up as NDIA CEO
by The Manderin
McNaughton steps into the acting CEO role at a challenging time for the NDIA, as the government looks for savings. McNaughton joined the NDIS as a general manager soon after it was established in 2014. He was promoted to deputy CEO of service delivery in 2023.
Discover strategies for disability inclusive workplaces
by Corowa Free Press
A Disability Employment Inclusion Morning Tea, delivered in partnership with Intereach, Personnel Group and Omnia Inclusive, is inviting employers, service providers, jobseekers, and community members to come together in support of greater workplace diversity and inclusion.
The Diary
