The Victorian Government has proposed the Barwon area as the launch site for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) from the middle of next year.

 

State Minister for Community Services Mary Wooldridge said the launch area, consisting of the City of Greater Geelong, the Surf Coast Shire, the Borough of Queenscliffe and the Colac-Otway Shire, is well placed to build on and use existing services and supports to launch the NDIS in Victoria.

 

"It meets all the criteria for launch sites. It is a geographically discrete area with a good mix of population, both metropolitan and regional locations and a highly developed service sector,” Ms Wooldridge said.

"Geelong also has real expertise in implementing insurance schemes, being home to the Transport Accident Commission.”

 

Ms Wooldridge said that Victoria has more than 16 years experience delivering self-directed disability supports and services - such asIndividual Support Packages - that are consistent with the NDIS.

 

"This knowledge, and the many benefits of the Geelong region, provides a strong foundation for Victoria to be included in the launch of the NDIS," Ms Wooldridge said.