Shaping the Future for Disability Services-NDS Queensland Conference.

A Queensland Government media release dated 11 April 2016 quoted Minister for Disability Services, Minister for Seniors and Minister Assisting the Premier on North Queensland The Honourable Coralee O'Rourke as saying:

"Key stakeholders from across the State have gathered in Brisbane today, to explore how the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) will positively change the disability sector in Queensland, at theNDS Queensland Conference".

Disability Services Minister Coralee O'Rourke officially launched the two day conference at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre at South Bank and welcomed the theme 'Shaping the Future, Preparing for Change'.

"This year's conference is all about the positive changes happening in the disability sector, both nationally and in Queensland, with the introduction of the NDIS," Mrs O'Rourke said.

"Fundamentally, the NDIS will support people with disability to live the lives they choose, to chase their dreams with appropriate support, and not be bound by what others perceive they can achieve.

"By full implementation in July 2019, disability services will move from State to Commonwealth responsibility - this is an unprecedented change, and a major reform for the disability sector.

"I'm pleased this year's conference has attracted an expert group of local and national speakers, who will share their knowledge and experience, so that we can achieve best practice in Queensland."

"The early launch group started their planning with Local Area Coordinators in January, and this month they are starting to receive their funded packages. "We will use key learnings from these launch sites, as we implement the scheme state-wide, to ensure a smooth and successful transition.

"Last month, the Queensland and Commonwealth Governments signed the Bilateral Agreement to give certainty to Queenslanders with disability about their futures and how the NDIS will roll out across the rest of state over three years".

For more information on the NDS Queensland Conference visit www.nds.org.au.

Media Contact: Minister O'Rourke's office (07) 3719 7190