The Victorian Disability Services (NGO) Agreement 2019: What You Need to Know
In August 2019, the Victorian government announced a new agreement for disability services provided by non-government organizations (NGOs) in the state. The Victorian Disability Services (NGO) Agreement 2019 replaces the previous agreement that expired on June 30, 2019. The new agreement sets out the terms and conditions under which NGOs will provide disability services and support to people with disability in Victoria.
What are disability services?
Disability services are support services that enable people with disability to live independently and participate fully in the community. These services include things like personal care and support, home modifications, assistive technology, employment support, and community access programs. Disability services can be provided by government agencies, NGOs, or private providers.
What is the Victorian Disability Services (NGO) Agreement 2019?
The Victorian Disability Services (NGO) Agreement 2019 is a five-year agreement between the Victorian government and NGOs that provide disability services in the state. The agreement sets out the standards, expectations, and funding arrangements for disability services provided by NGOs. It covers a range of services, including community access programs, respite care, accommodation support, and support for people with complex needs.
What are the key features of the Victorian Disability Services (NGO) Agreement 2019?
The Victorian Disability Services (NGO) Agreement 2019 has several key features, including:
1. Funding increases: The agreement provides for funding increases of 2.5% per annum for the next five years, to keep pace with inflation and the rising cost of delivering disability services.
2. Quality standards: The agreement sets out quality standards for disability services, including requirements for staff qualifications, training, and supervision. Service providers must also comply with the Victorian Disability Services Safeguards Act 2018, which aims to prevent and respond to abuse, neglect, and exploitation of people with disability.
3. Person-centered approach: The agreement emphasizes the importance of a person-centered approach to disability services, which puts the person with disability at the center of decision-making and supports their choices, preferences, and goals.
4. Innovation and flexibility: The agreement encourages innovation and flexibility in the delivery of disability services, including the use of new technologies and approaches that improve outcomes for people with disability.
Why is the Victorian Disability Services (NGO) Agreement 2019 important?
The Victorian Disability Services (NGO) Agreement 2019 is important for several reasons:
1. It ensures that people with disability in Victoria have access to high-quality, person-centered disability services that meet their needs and preferences.
2. It provides certainty and stability for NGOs that provide disability services, by setting out the terms and conditions of funding and service delivery.
3. It promotes transparency and accountability in the delivery of disability services, by setting clear standards and expectations for service providers.
4. It supports the ongoing transformation of disability services in Victoria, by encouraging innovation and flexibility in service delivery.
In conclusion, the Victorian Disability Services (NGO) Agreement 2019 is an important agreement that sets out the terms and conditions for disability services provided by NGOs in Victoria. The agreement aims to ensure that people with disability have access to high-quality, person-centered services that meet their needs and preferences. It also provides certainty and stability for service providers, promotes transparency and accountability, and supports ongoing innovation and transformation in disability services.