According to a media statement from the Disability Services Coralee O'Rourke, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) will provide benefits to the Bundaberg area, as it rolls out across the region from 1st September.

“It will progressively roll out across the region, creating benefits for local people with disability and their families, as well as the broader community,” Mrs O’Rourke said.

“I’m pleased to say the roll out is happening earlier than expected for the region, following a Queensland Government decision to bring forward the NDIS start dates for Bundaberg, Ipswich and Rockhampton transition areas, to make the most of unused capacity from the first year rollout.”

Leanne Donaldson, Member for Bundaberg, also welcomed the early rollout and said the the NDIS would drive significant demand for disability services and creatw new jobs across the region.

“Once fully operational, around 3,300 people with disability living in the Bundaberg area will be able to access the supports they need to pursue their goals and aspirations and participate in daily life,” Ms Donaldson said.

“This increase in demand is expected to inject up to $150 million into the local economy, and create up to 800 additional jobs in the region, when the NDIS is fully operational.”

The Disability Services Minister also added that the Queensland Governement has funded WorkAbility Queensland, a consortium of peak sector organisations to work with the community, and maximise employment opportunities from NDIS.

To read the rest of the media statement, go to the Queensland Government website.