Two of Victoria’s major regulators of the disability sector joined forces urging people to reach out to them at a series of community forums in Gippsland this week.
The Victorian Disability Worker Commissioner Dan Stubbs together with Disability Services Commissioner Jennifer Jackson-Hall met with people with disability, service providers and disability workers and carers across Warragul, Traralgon and Leongatha to reiterate the crucial role of Victorian standards and safeguarding for people with disability.
These two bodies are Victoria’s regulators for disability services, covering all disability workers in Victoria, as well as non-NDIS service providers in Victoria.
“Safety and quality are so important for people with disability and their families, and we heard they are key issues for people across the Gippsland community,” said Victorian Disability Worker Commissioner Dan Stubbs.
“As the regulator of all disability services in Victoria, we want people to contact us about any concerns or questions about disability workers.”
Commissioner Dan Stubbs said that the Disability Service Safeguards Code of Conduct covers all disability workers in Victoria, not just NDIS funded workers.
“A large proportion of disability workers across Australia are not part of the NDIS. The VDWC regulates the conduct of all disability workers in Victoria and exists to stop people who pose a serious risk of harm from providing disability services.
“If people with disability, their families, disability workers or providers have a concern about a disability worker, they are encouraged to contact us. Anyone can complain about poor quality service, disrespect or service that risks harm to people with disability. Complaints are a way to improving services and to stopping any instances of abuse or neglect,” he said.
Employers of disability workers and service providers need to notify the Victorian Disability Worker Commission of conduct putting someone with a disability at risk of harm. This helps stop abuse and neglect quickly.
While both regulators handle complaints and conduct investigations, the Victorian Disability Worker Commission is specifically set up to regulate disability workers, promoting accountability, safety and quality in the disability workforce. The scheme comprises voluntary worker registration, a Code of Conduct, and a complaints service.
For further information visit: vdwc.vic.gov.au
Media Contact: Kirsten Howe 0436 310 415| kirsten.howe@vdwc.vic.gov.au