Recommendation

That the first essential criterion for the recruitment and management of staff be a demonstrated commitment to and the understanding of the values underpinning the DSA and the Standards followed by experience in the disability field.

Staff selection criteria are being reviewed. The future criteria will include applicants' understanding of and commitment to the DSA and the Standards and the underpinning values and principles. Experience in the disability field will also be considered.

National competency standards have been developed for the disability sector. These competency standards will be reflected in the revised selection criteria and other HR applications.

Role and duty statements and selection criteria for psychologists, social workers, speech pathologists, occupational therapists, recreation officers and administrative staff are being revised to reflect this recommendation.

Community Programs has been involved in validation of the National Competency Standards and has membership of the course reference group for the development of a CIT course based on these competencies to commence in 1996.

Australian Vocational Training System traineeships in Developmental and Disability Support have been negotiated with the Health Services Union of Australia (the HSUA) and commenced on 30 October 1995.