Disability workforce project - award finalist

Created in response to growing workforce capability needs across the disability sector, the project focused on supporting workers to identify changing health needs, promote preventative health practices, and help participants access mainstream health services.

Through extensive industry consultation involving disability service providers, people with disability and training organisations, two industry-led microcredentials were developed:

• Recognising and responding to changing health needs
• Effective health promotion

The training targeted disability support workers across supported independent living, day programs and services supporting people with complex needs.

The pilot enrolled 88 learners, with 63 successfully completing the training. Outcomes exceeded project targets, achieving a 71 per cent completion rate and an impressive 97 per cent recommendation rate from participants.

The success of the pilot has led to the training being embedded within The Gordon's Upskilling Hub, providing Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability) students with access to additional specialist learning. The modules will also be available nationally through the NDS member learning platform, extending their reach to thousands of disability services and more than 100,000 workers across Australia.

Joanne Jones, Portfolio Manager Health and Community Services at The Gordon, said the recognition reflected the power of industry and education working together to improve outcomes for people with disability.

"This project demonstrates what can be achieved when industry expertise and vocational education come together with a shared purpose," Ms Jones said.

"By equipping disability support workers with practical skills to recognise changing health needs and promote positive health outcomes, we are helping build a more skilled, confident workforce that can make a meaningful difference in the lives of people with disability."

"Being recognised as a finalist in the Victorian Training Awards acknowledges the dedication of everyone involved in this collaboration and the significant impact it continues to have across the sector."

The project concluded in June 2025 but continues to generate national impact. Insights and outputs from the collaboration are now informing qualification reform work being undertaken by HumanAbility, helping shape the future of disability workforce training across Australia.

The Victorian Training Awards celebrate excellence and innovation in Victoria's TAFE and training sector, recognising individuals and organisations making outstanding contributions to skills development and workforce capability.

The Gordon congratulates NDS and all project partners on this significant achievement and looks forward to continuing to support workforce development that improves outcomes for people with disability.