The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) is celebrating 10 years of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) supporting communities across North Queensland.
On 1 April 2016, Townsville became the first NDIS office to open in Queensland, marking the beginning of NDIS operations in the state. The first participant plans were approved from the Stanley Street office, where a small team of just 10 NDIA staff worked closely with participants and families to deliver life-changing support.
What began by servicing Townsville, Charters Towers, and Palm Island has now expanded to include Hinchinbrook, Burdekin, Mount Isa, and surrounding regions supporting more than 9,000 participants in achieving their goals. Today, around 140 staff, including 40 working in regional and remote areas, continue delivering support across the region.
NDIA Townsville senior director Maria Gold, one of the original team members, reflected on the journey, saying the NDIS has transformed lives and strengthened communities across Queensland. Officials say the heart of the scheme remains unchanged: helping participants and their families thrive and reach their goals.
The milestone highlights the lasting impact of the NDIS and its commitment to improving the lives of Australians living with disability.
(Source: NDIS News)
