The implementation of the NDIS is a major social change in Australia. On July 1st the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) moved from its initial trial phase into a full national roll-out. The NDIS arose from a productivity report commissioned by the Commonwealth government in 2010 whereby the Productivity Commission was asked to provide a report into the long term disability care and support scheme. In 2011 the Commission released its report and clearly stated that the current systems providing disability support did not work. The decision to reform the disability sector was agreed upon by COAG in 2011 and in 2012 COAG launched the NDIS in three jurisdictions. South Australia, Tasmania and the ACT formed part of the initial trials followed by NSW, Northern Territory, Victoria, WA and QLD. The NDIS legislation was passed and the NDIS Act 2013 (link is external)was created, along with the scheme and the Agency—National Disability. The scheme requires personnel from disability organisations to navigate complex legal and business frameworks in order to deliver client focused services. That is why the School of Law at the University of New England with the collaboration of several organisations within the disability sector in NSW has introduced the Graduate Certificate in NDIS Business Development in order to expand the knowledge and capabilities of administrators of disability services. It is a remarkable opportunity to forge on-going relationships between the Schools of Law and Business, the wider University and the disability the sector.
The need for such a program was identified during discussions between Bronwen Jackman and organisations within the disability sector in NSW regarding collaborative research into the introduction, implementation and future issues around the NDIS. Discussions with relevant parties among the NGOs involved in the roll out of the NDIS indicated the sector’s needs, and requirements, for training of those managing the scheme in their various areas. A new graduate certificate provides not only the chance for ongoing research collaboration but to actively facilitate this important social change.
The School of Law, particularly the Head of School Professor Stuckey, approved and supported the initial proposal through to its acceptance at the University APC. The development of the Graduate Certificate in NDIS Business Development was possible because of the involvement of industry, that is, the disability sector organisations and the unfailing assistance and involvement of Dr Kip Werren and Ms Carmel Velleley. In developing the program a Reference Group of interested CEOs from various disability organisations was constituted, a representative from Family and Community Services, the two heads of School and a senior lawyer from Slater Gordon and two staff members. These industry members have been unequivocal in their support of the ongoing development and offering of this qualification. Indeed without their input this would not have been developed.
The University Academic Program Committee passed the proposal for a Graduate Certificate in NDIS Business Development in Trimester 1 2016. As of Trimester 2 2016 the qualification is being offered.
We are excited by the possibilities this genuine connection between academia and industry can offer. We are also delighted to welcome Janine McIlwraith, Principal Lawyer, from Slater Gordon to the School of Law as an adjunct Associate Professor. Janine accepted an invitation to participate on the Reference Group for the graduate certificate development. She is a nationally and internationally recognised legal expert in health law and related areas. Professor McIlwraith will be assisting in the development of a new subject on the NDIS and disability law for all eligible students. The School of Law is fortunate to have access to her expertise.
For more information on this exciting new qualification visit: une.edu.au/NDIS
