Disability program helps do it My Way

Disability services in the Lower South West have taken another step forward with the launch of the State Government’s My Way program.

The program, which allows people with disabilities and their families to drive their own support services, has been running since November but had its official opening in Busselton recently.

Disability Services Minister Helen Morton said more than 90 per cent of people already accessing disability support services in the area had signed up to My Way, which promoted more local control and decision making.

The Lower South West will also serve as the launch site for the next steps of My Way from July 1, including National Disability Insurance Scheme equivalent eligibility criteria and additional resources.

Ms Morton said it was no coincidence the Lower South West was chosen for the launch.

“It’s got very, very strong service provider network, very strong local area co-ordinators and people with disabilities are very connected with the area,” she said.

The Minister was confident the Government would sign up to the NDIS but wanted it recognised that WA was in front of the other States.

“The reason we’re still negotiating with the Commonwealth is making sure we get to retain the advances we’ve already made, make sure we retain funding and get our share. We don’t see any sense in dismantling what we’ve got here and starting from scratch again,” she said.

Also attending the launch were Disability Services Commission director general Ron Chalmers, City of Busselton Mayor Ian Stubbs, Vasse MLA Troy Buswell and South West MLCs Barry House and Adele Farina.