CEO calls on government to address sector staff shortage

With critical staff shortages leaving vulnerable regional Queenslanders without vital support, mental wellbeing and suicide prevention charity, selectability, is calling on the government to take action around issues impacting employment in the disability sector.

The September Job and Skills Summit is just a week away and selectability is joining the growing group of disability support organisations urging the government to introduce strategies to make it easier for people to join the sector and incentives for them to stay there.

selectability CEO Debra Burden said on an average week they were seeing up to 1000 hours of support work going unallocated.

“When you consider this gap you have to realise this means vulnerable people are going without essential items, social connection, missing medical appointments and not receiving the personal care support they need,” said Debra.

“selectabililty has introduced a number of staff incentive programs which have achieved some success but we still need at least 150 Lifestyle Support Workers across our regional Queensland footprint to keep up with demand. 

“The issue is so large and far-reaching that it needs a comprehensive and coordinated government response.

“We are asking the government change the rules to encourage retired people to return to the workforce without impacts to their pension.

“In addition, we are seeking a review of the current Blue Card screening process which can deem individuals ineligible to work in the sector based on indiscretions that, on many occasions, have occurred in the past and are not likely to pose a current risk.

“The organisation is happy to employ candidates with no experience or qualifications as we own and operate an RTO, selectability Training and have structured on the job training.

“We just need the current conditions to be revised so we can fill our vacancies and ensure that regional Queenslanders are receiving the support they need and deserve.”