The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) will next month be available in Latrobe, South Gippsland, Baw Baw and Bass Coast local government areas.
The Nationals Member for Gippsland Darren Chester said the NDIS rollout would mean the number of people with a disability receiving support in these council areas was expected to grow from 3300 to 4600 by 2019.
“The NDIS will give people under 65 who have a permanent and significant disability with the support they need to live an ordinary life,” Mr Chester said.
“This might be personal care and support or access to the community, therapy and equipment.
“The scheme will roll out in these four local government areas from October 1. It’s an important moment for people with a disability, their families and carers.”
Mr Chester said the NDIS would also create local jobs and stimulate investment in the area.
“Currently, there are between 750 and 1000 fulltime equivalent positions in the sector workforce locally. Over the coming years, it’s predicted that number will increase to 1850,” Mr Chester said.
“There’ll also be an additional investment of $120 million, bringing the total for the sector in this inner Gippsland area to $220 million.”
People who already receive support from the Federal or State Governments will be contacted by a NDIS representative when it is time to transition to the scheme.
This includes people waiting for support on the Victorian Disability Support Register and Early Childhood Intervention Services.
Those who live in the inner Gippsland area who don’t currently receive support and think they may meet the NDIS access requirements can call 1800 800 110.
People who need help with English can contact the NDIS by calling the TIS National line on 131 450. Those with hearing or speech loss can contact the NDIS via TTY on 1800 555 677.
The NDIS rollout for outer Gippsland, which includes Wellington and East Gippsland shire councils, is scheduled for January 1, 2019.
