PERTH
NATIONAL DISABILITY WORKFORCE SYMPOSIUM 2023
'Shaping a Resilient Future'
Thank you to all who attended this incredible event at the Pan Pacific Hotel Perth on 25th Oct 2023!
We thank all our Speakers and Sponsor Tania Gomez Consulting who contributed to the success of the event.
Sponsored by
Topics and Speakers
Shaynie Paton
Director Campaigns and Projects, Regulatory Operations NDIS Commission
Own Motion Inquiry conducted by the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission into Supported Living (SIL) Outcomes
In August 2021, the NDIS Commission initiated our first Own Motion Inquiry into aspects of supported accommodation in the NDIS (the Inquiry). The Inquiry examined reportable incidents and complaints made to the NDIS Commission in connection with the supported accommodation services (specifically group homes).
The Inquiry’s purpose was to enable the NDIS Commissioner to identify trends in issues occurring in supported accommodation, what is causing those issues, models of best practice to eliminate or address these issues, and how the NDIS Commission can use its powers to support the delivery of higher standards of support in these settings.
The Inquiry was completed in December 2022.
Shaynie will discuss components of the report
Shaynie Paton
Director Campaigns and Projects, Regulatory Operations NDIS Commission
Revised High Intensity Support Skills Descriptors,effective Dec 2022
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The NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission has revised its skill descriptors for high intensity supports.
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Reflecting contemporary practice and expert advice, the new descriptors are supplementary guidance for providers and workers who support participants with high intensity daily personal activities (HIDPA).
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The descriptors for each area of support outline the skills and knowledge needed to prepare and deliver the support and to carry out the support plan.
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They provide specific guidance on training and keeping training and practice current.
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The descriptors came into effect on 1 February.
Shaynie will present on the above
Workforce capability framework tools and resources as material that is providing guidance.
Rowena Langridge
Director, External Relations and Regulatory Policy
NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission
Paul Bryan
NDIS Head Coach & Business Consultant
Action and Intent
Anticipating and addressing the impending shortage of skilled disability support workers
In this presentation, Paul Bryan, a renowned NDIS business coach, delves into the critical issue of the impending shortage of skilled disability support workers. Drawing from his extensive experience in the disability services sector, Paul explores three key factors contributing to the shortage:
1. The Impact of Small Providers: Paul highlights the challenges arising from the increasing number of small providers starting up without an established client base. This situation has created a highly competitive landscape in the industry, affecting the availability of skilled workers.
2. Dealing with a Transient Workforce: The current workforce trend shows a significant number of support workers holding multiple casual jobs, leading to staff turnover and leaving providers understaffed. Paul examines the implications of this transient workforce and offers insights on effective retention strategies.
3. Navigating the Complex Award System: Paul sheds light on the complexities and misunderstandings surrounding the award system in the disability services sector. He addresses the difficulties providers face due to the lack of accurate information and an abundance of misinformation, impacting their ability to attract and retain skilled workers.
Some questions to be raised here are, how do we incentivise workforce participation? Is skilled immigration as the government is suggesting a possible solution and what does the future hold for the regulation of small businesses in the sector. Paul emphasizes the role of immigration providers in assisting disability service providers in acquiring a committed and qualified workforce.
Attendees can expect to gain a comprehensive understanding of the impending skilled worker shortage and practical strategies to proactively address the challenges. Through real-life examples and actionable insights, Paul equips providers with the knowledge and tools to build a sustainable and skilled workforce, ensuring continued excellence in disability support services.
Paul Bryan
NDIS Head Coach & Business Consultant
Action and Intent
Strategies that address the recruitment of workers across all roles in the sector
In this dynamic presentation, Paul Bryan, The NDIS Business Coach, takes the stage in his playfield—the realm of Workforce Development strategies in the disability services sector. Drawing from his extensive experience collaborating with providers, Paul shares an arsenal of proven strategies and tools designed to help providers find, retain, support, and train staff, transforming them into
top-tier employers.
These strategies play a pivotal role in delivering robust support and care across the sector.
Key Takeaways:
1. Becoming an A-Grade Employer: Participants will gain invaluable insights into the strategies that elevate their status as A-grade employers. Paul highlights the importance of attracting, retaining, and nurturing talented staff, ultimately leading to exceptional service provision and positive outcomes for participants.
2. Addressing Workforce Shortages Proactively: Attendees will learn how to navigate the challenges posed by workforce shortages through proactive planning and being ahead of the curve. Paul's expertise empowers providers to stay informed and prepared, mitigating the impact of the shortage and maintaining a skilled workforce.
3. Operating Above Reproach Amid Changes: Paul emphasizes the significance of staying abreast of industry changes and operating above reproach to lead the sector. Participants will understand how compliance and adaptation to changes reinforce their reputation as trusted and reliable employers.
Moreover, the presentation delves into practical and actionable strategies for talent acquisition, staff retention, ongoing training, and support. Paul's engaging approach, supported by real-life success stories, will inspire providers to adopt innovative and effective approaches to recruit and retain workers across all roles in the disability services sector.
Participants can expect to leave this presentation with a comprehensive toolkit of strategies, equipping them to overcome recruitment challenges, elevate their employer status, and deliver exceptional care and support within the sector.
Tania Gomez
NDIS Consultant and Advisor
Tania Gomez Consulting
Creating a culture of quality.
In this presentation, we will explore the importance of cultivating a quality culture within NDIS businesses. We will delve into the distinction between quality and compliance, emphasising that quality goes beyond mere adherence to regulations. By highlighting the business case for quality, we will demonstrate how investing in robust staffing systems and processes can yield a favourable return on investment (ROI). Furthermore, we will discuss strategies for fostering a quality mindset and culture, enabling NDIS businesses to consistently pass audits and establish themselves as leaders in delivering exceptional services.
Key points:
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The difference between quality and compliance
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The business argument for quality
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The ROI of having quality staffing systems and processes
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Creating quality mindset and culture
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Passing audit every time
Tania Gomez
NDIS Consultant and Advisor
Tania Gomez Consulting
Setting the stage for success - developing an NDIS induction and onboarding program
In this engaging presentation, we will delve into the crucial role of induction and onboarding in NDIS provider organisations. By emphasising the significance of a well-designed and comprehensive onboarding process, we will demonstrate how it sets the stage for long-term success. We will explore the benefits of effective induction, including increased staff engagement, improved retention rates, and enhanced service delivery. Join us to learn practical strategies and best practices that will empower NDIS providers to create a strong foundation for their staff, driving organisational excellence and client satisfaction.
Key points:
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Designing an onboarding process
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Regulatory requirements
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Beyond regulatory requirements
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Best practice around supervision and buddy shifts
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Evaluating and enhancing the process
Cadences and communication
Paul Bryan
NDIS Provider
Head Coach & Business Consultant
Action and Intent
The need to keep with the changes: why it's important to maintain communication to participants and providers
In this enlightening presentation, Paul Bryan, an NDIS business coach, delves into a critical area of concern: the vital importance of maintaining effective communication with participants and providers in the disability services sector.
Recognizing the prevalence of misinformation, Paul emphasizes the need for providers to be well-informed experts in their scope of work. He advocates for establishing robust communication channels to keep participants and workers informed about updates and changes, ultimately positioning providers as authoritative experts in the field.
Ben Turner BSc(psych)
Psychosocial recovery coach / support coordinator.
ROS - Recovery Oriented Services
Navigating the Future of the Disability Employment Services (DES) program.
While the current DES program has been extended until 30 June 2025, the Government has already made immediate adjustments to boost its quality and outcomes for people with disabilities. With 52 DES providers no longer providing some services and eight providers having all their services discontinued due to poor performance, the stage is set for a fresh approach to disability employment services.
By staying informed, engaging with stakeholders, and showcasing the impact of your service, you can navigate the challenges and opportunities that may arise and ensure that your DES program remains relevant, effective, and aligned with the needs of the disability community.
This presentation will discuss these strategies to ensure that you remain well prepared.
BIOS of Perth Speakers
Shaynie Paton is Director Campaigns and Projects at the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission. Over the past 20 years, Shaynie has held senior roles in state and Commonwealth public sector, and has extensive professional experience in service delivery and regulatory policy and practice across multiple sectors.
Shaynie Paton
Rowena Langridge
Committed to working with people with disability to develop innovative and practical solutions to emerging issues or reform outcomes in the NDIS with a focus on rights and justice. Rowena Langridge has a unique understanding of how policy and legislation translates into social outcomes with more than 30 years’ experience across the disability and human services sectors in operational, policy, regulatory, program and executive roles. Rowena has a deep belief in the rights of people with disability which is foundational to her understanding of the needs of people with disability, and how NDIS policy and regulatory arrangements translate to quality support for individuals.
Rowena has worked for the NDIS Commission since March 2020 in roles covering behaviour support and restrictive practices, research and practice evidence, strategic and regulatory policy
Rowena is a leader in using evidence and data to identify solutions and is a strong advocate for ensuring that the voice of NDIS participants guides the development of policy and practice guidance. Previously working for the NSW State Government, Rowena held executive roles related to delivering policy, legislative reform, operational governance and supported the transition of government operated disability services and delivered change management activities to facilitate NSW transition to the NDIS.
She currently leads a regulatory policy team with the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission, covering a diverse portfolio of policy topics related to participant safety and quality NDIS supports.
Tania Gomez
NDIS Consultant and Advisor
Tania Gomez Consulting
Tania Gomez is a dynamic entrepreneur with a passion for helping NDIS providers run thriving businesses that deliver exceptional care. With over a decade of experience as a successful business owner, Tania has founded four successful businesses - Provider+, Strawberry Solutions, Tania Gomez Consulting and Jelli Beanz.
Her mission is to help providers overcome challenges and achieve real business outcomes.
At every turn, Tania brings her expertise, energy, and deep commitment to quality and compliance to help providers achieve their goals.
As an NDIS Auditor since 2019, Tania brings a wealth of experience to her consulting work. In addition to her audit expertise and entrepreneurial spirit, Tania holds several qualifications, including a Master of Education (Leadership), Graduate Certificate of Disability Practice Management, and Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) and Diploma of Quality auditing.
Above all, Tania is passionate about helping purpose lead businesses move past compliance for compliance sake and see quality as the secret to a sustainable, profitable and successful business that delivers high quality outcomes to its clients.
Paul Bryan
NDIS Provider
Head Coach & Business Consultant
Action and Intent
Ben Turner BSc(psych)
Psychosocial recovery coach / support coordinator.
ROS - Recovery Oriented Services
Paul Bryan is the Head Coach of Action and Intent, specialising in coaching support businesses in the disability services sector.
With 7 years of coaching experience, including 3 focused on the NDIS, Paul is passionate about empowering Australia's most vulnerable by improving the businesses that support them. Through his two coaching programs, Networking Events and Connection Driving Software, Paul helps both entry-level and market leading businesses establish strong foundations and guides growing providers to become people-focused and profitable market leaders.
Renowned for his practical and informative live workshops, Paul simplifies the complicated and brings practicality to the difficult. Having helped numerous providers achieve multimillion-dollar success, Paul's unique tools and systems are set to empower further growth for providers.
Ben is a professional Psychosocial Recovery coach, and an Accredited Psychologist B.Sc(Psych) with 13 years of experience in disabilities and mental health. His passion is people and recovery.
Ben's background includes providing counselling, career support, disability and aged-care services within local agencies, including Alzheimer's Australia, Crosslinks, Curtin University & Empowering Abilities Together.
Throughout his career he has worked in a wide range of roles, from counsellor, career support groups, support worker, support coordination and recovery coaching.
He is a passionate advocate for mental health awareness and diversity.
Ben has had many years of experience assisting people with a range of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic pain, relationships, social isolation, OCD, Autism, ADHD, and communication difficulties.
His wealth of experience working with Neurodivergent individuals and families with multiple siblings and complex needs.
Sponsor or Exhibit
Email ndislink@jazcorpaustralia.com.au for more information or call 1300 667 709