Members of Tasmania's community sector have been praised for their hard work and support in helping to secure the State as one of the three launch sites for the National Disability Insurance Scheme.

 

The Minister for Human Services, Cassy O'Connor and Labor Senator for Tasmania, Carol Brown, today joined members of the disability sector to celebrate the announcement that Tasmania would be one of the launch sites.

 

"The community sector in Tasmania does fantastic work supporting Tasmanians with disability and their families, and we are thrilled that this excellent work has been recognised through the decision to use this State as one of the three launch sites for the National Disability Insurance Scheme," Ms O'Connor said.

 

"As of 1 July next year, nearly 1000 young Tasmanians with disability will have their opportunities for accommodation, further education and training, as well as employment significantly enhanced through this launch.

 

"This will also take the pressure off families and carers, who give so much to support the people they love.

 

"Over the next 11 months we will be working hard in the truest spirit of cooperation with the Commonwealth, service providers and, most importantly, clients to ensure a smooth startup and operation of this historic reform."

 

Labor Senator for Tasmania, Carol Brown, said she was delighted Tasmania had been successful in securing an NDIS launch site.

 

"An NDIS will revolutionise the care and support we provide for those Australians with disability, and ensure they receive the appropriate services for their disability," she said.

 

"I congratulate the Premier and the Minister for their advocacy and work to help bring the NDIS launch site to Tasmania."