In a recent ABC Radio PM program segment, Ravi Bhatt, Director of Sunrise2Sunrise, discussed “Disability Support Providers Struggling with an Inefficient System and High Turnover of Workers”.
A significant issue is the high turnover of workers, driven by inconsistent hours and uncompetitive wages. Many support workers are leaving for better-paid roles in aged care, creating instability for service providers and clients.
Bhatt highlighted how the NDIS funding structure and the current awards system complicate providing consistent support—the fragmented nature of required support and the limitations on working hours without triggering overtime worsen the problem.
Peter McKendry, CEO of The Co-Group, highlighted that workers often juggle multiple employers to secure sufficient hours, further destabilising the sector.
Emily Forrest, Deputy CEO of National Disability Services, emphasised the need for reforms, including better funding for training, supervision, and retention of skilled practitioners. She noted that over half of the providers are reporting losses or just breaking even.
Ravi Bhatt’s call for urgent reforms aims to restructure the funding model and invest in the workforce to ensure quality care for individuals with disabilities.
For the full segment, visit: Disability support providers struggling with an inefficient system and high turnover of workers.
