The Albanese Labor Government remains dedicated to improving outcomes for Australians with disability, with a focus on enhancing investments in disability employment and the NDIS. In response to the key findings of the Royal Commission and the independent NDIS Review, the 2024-25 Budget prioritizes quality employment outcomes, evidence-based disability support, and avenues for people with disability to seek advice and address concerns outside the NDIS.
A new Specialist Disability Employment Program underscores the Government's commitment to fostering inclusivity and equal employment opportunities for individuals with disability. An additional $227.6 million has been allocated to support this initiative, totaling $5.4 billion over the next five years.
The program, set to launch on July 1, 2025, aims to revolutionize employment services for people with disability by providing tailored supports, enhancing flexibility, and offering a single wage subsidy of up to $10,000. Furthermore, the establishment of a Disability Employment Centre of Excellence, supported by $23.3 million in funding over four years, will enhance the capabilities of employment service providers to deliver high-quality services.
The Centre will serve as a hub for sharing best practices and innovations among various employment service providers, contributing to the ongoing reform of disability employment in Australia.
To strengthen the evidence base for therapeutic supports accessed through the NDIS, the Government has committed $45.5 million over four years to establish the NDIS Evidence Advisory Committee (NDIS EAC). This committee will provide independent advice on the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of supports funded under the Scheme, ensuring better outcomes and value for participants.
In addition, $2.6 million in additional support has been allocated to sustain the National Disability Abuse and Neglect Hotline and the Complaints Resolution and Referral Service. These services offer a confidential platform for reporting abuse and neglect of people with disability, as well as lodging complaints about Australian Government funded disability services outside the NDIS.
This funding will help maintain service continuity and provide people with disability access to fair and impartial advice when addressing concerns about support services. The Albanese Labor Government reaffirms its commitment to collaborating with individuals with disability and their advocates to create a safer, more inclusive future for all Australians with disability.
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