The critical shortage of disability support workers, particularly in regional and remote communities, has been eased by a Territory Government training initiative.

Twenty four staff from 2 Katherine organisations, Step Out Community Access Service and JMJ Disability Services, recently completed a Certificate III in Individual Support.

The training was funded by the Industry Buildskills program, which targets Territory jobs that have been affected by industry restructuring; regulation and legislative changes; new or additional licensing requirements; and job shortages.

Many of the graduates were the first in their family to receive any kind of qualification.

The course was delivered face-to-face over 12 months by registered training organisation Response Services Employment and Training, which specialises in upskilling disability services and aged care workers.

Company manager Sally Morris said the training eased the industry’s job shortage in Katherine by helping retain staff.

“There is a high turnover rate in the sector and staff say this is often due to the lack of training and mentoring,” she said. “But we’ve been able to retain 90% of employees with their organisations.”

The original aim was to upskill 20 workers but the number grew to 24.

“That’s excellent for the industry,” said Ms Morris.

Step Out and JMJ, which provide outreach and other support services, wanted to give their dedicated staff the chance to gain a nationally-accredited qualification.

The disability services sector continues to grow rapidly at more than 11% per year.

For businesses wanting to find out more, go to the Northern Territory Government website.