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More Support To Grow World Class Disability And Aged Care Workforce

15 June 2016

The Andrews Labor Government will provide funding for a new research and teaching institute to help the disability and aged care sectors to transform and grow.

The Future Social Service Institute is a collaboration between the Labor Government, the Victorian Council of Social Service (VCOSS) and RMIT University. The Government is providing $500,000 in funding, which will be matched by RMIT.

In making the announcement Minister for Housing, Disability and Ageing Martin Foley said the Institute would deliver economic and social research crucial to growing the disability and aged care sectors.

The Institute will focus on research, education, and training to attract more workers to both sectors whilst boosting the skills of the workforce.

With the role out of the National Disability Insurance Scheme and Victoria’s ageing population, growing the workforce and capability of the community sector is critical.

This is the first time a government, a tertiary institution and the social service sector has come together to jointly tackle and embrace the challenges of social service reform.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Housing, Disability and Ageing Martin Foley

“With the impending introduction of the National Disability Insurance Scheme, an ageing population and broader shifts in how we provide support, this Institute will position Victoria to produce the world’s most highly-skilled support workers and carers.”

“But the real winners will be those in need of support and assistance. They’ll be better able to pursue the lifestyle they value, with the backing of a highly skilled and growing workforce.”

Quotes attributable to VCOSS CEO Emma King

“The Institute will benefit from being firmly rooted in both the social service and tertiary sectors.”

“The Institute will begin full operation in 2017 after engagement in meaningful dialogue with providers, existing support workers and care receivers, and partner with them to co-design the course curriculum.”

Quotes attributable to RMIT Vice-Chancellor Martin Bean CBE

"RMIT already equips students with the skills to work in social service – from vocational education qualifications in individual support and alcohol and other drugs, to bachelor degrees in social work and youth work, and masters’ degrees and beyond.

"The disability and aged care sectors have an exciting future and together we have an opportunity to develop world class industries and care to those who need it."

Reviewed 19 August 2020

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