Meta Pixel
The NGO Training Centre team at the Gold Coast Business Excellence Awards


NGO Training Centre Shines as Finalists at Gold Coast Business Excellence Awards 2023

On Saturday, December 2nd, 2023, our team at NGO Training Centre experienced an exciting celebration at the Gold Coast Business Excellence Awards as finalists in the category of Education, Training, and Employment. Sponsored by Study Gold Coast, this prestigious award marked recognition for businesses that have proven outstanding contributions to the Gold Coast business arena.

The Gold Coast Business Excellence Awards stand as the region’s most comprehensive and esteemed business awards program, providing specific and impactful benefits to the broader business community on the Gold Coast. These awards are a testament to the commitment and excellence displayed by businesses that strive for innovation, growth, and success.

The Education, Training, and Employment Award, for which NGO Training Centre was a finalist, is a distinguished honour reserved for businesses that have showcased remarkable growth and success through excellence in these sectors. The finalists in this category demonstrated a profound understanding of the value of a skilled workforce, delivering innovative and world-class offerings while wholeheartedly committing to nurturing future leaders and retaining talent on the Gold Coast.

A heartfelt congratulations to all the finalists and winners who contributed to the evening’s vibrant atmosphere. The event was a true celebration of the diverse and dynamic business landscape on the Gold Coast.

NGO Training Centre expresses sincere gratitude to our team for their ongoing passion and commitment, and the support of our customers, who continue to trust in our services and work alongside us to strive for excellence. Without you, we would not be here to celebrate this prestigious event!

As we continue our mission of making a positive impact in the disability sector, the acknowledgment received at this event serves as both inspiration and confirmation of our dedication to excellence in the education and training environment, and every one of our current and future customers. Cheers to you!

NDIS Worker Screening Checks

All states and territories have started implementing the new NDIS worker screening arrangements as part of a national approach to worker screening.

Now that the new national worker screening arrangements have started, registered NDIS providers are required to only engage workers with an NDIS worker screening clearance in certain roles (called ‘risk assessed roles’).

However, states and territories have different arrangements for when a worker must apply for an NDIS Worker Screening Check.

Please check the transitional and special arrangements that apply in your state or territory to determine when your workers will need to have an NDIS worker screening clearance.

The transitional and special arrangements specify alternative checks and clearances that are acceptable pending the availability of the NDIS Worker Screening Check.

We will keep you updated on any changes and new requirements for your staff as we hear them.

Stay tuned!

Written by Amanda Robinson

Amanda’s expertise lies in disability, mental health, aged care and navigating the complex terrain of the Disability Sector. She is a passionate advocate, a strategic leader, and a catalyst for positive change.

The Dazzling Business News Australian Young Entrepreneur’s Awards

Following on from our incredible triumph at the Business News Australia Gold Coast Young Entrepreneur’s Awards in October 2023, we felt incredibly privileged to be in the running for the prestigious Australian Young Entrepreneur Awards held at the Gold Coast. Making it into the top 100 business across Australia.

We shone alongside impressive contenders from all over the country, from Broome to Hobart, Wangaratta to Perth, Adelaide to Coolum Beach, and everything in between.
In each segment, the event spotlighted not only the financial success of the enterprises but also celebrated the remarkable creativity of the founders and the profound missions propelling them forward. It was a testament to the dynamic and innovative spirit that young entrepreneurs bring to the business landscape.
Australian Young Entrepreneur Awards founder Camilla Jansen highlights how the initiative searches the country far and wide for the most innovative, tenacious, and successful talent making an impact on business and society.
NGO Training Centre was, of course, on this list, and for this we have our incredible and dedicated team to thank, as well as our loyal and supportive customers who continue to provide essential services to people in our community who need it the most.
Another heartfelt thank you and congratulations to everyone who contributed to the success and growth of our business. We look forward to next year’s awards and the continued showcasing of the remarkable and innovative talent across our ever-evolving Australian landscape.

ADSCA 2023

NGO Training Centre attended the Australian Disability Service Conference & Awards (ADSCA) on the 23rd of November held at the stunning Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. What a great day at the conference, delivered by the delightfully witty MC, Ben Sorensen.

The Conference and awards were hosted by One Community, and recognise both excellence and innovation in the disability service sector. ADSCA is unique in that it brings a wide range of service providers together to explore topical industry themes during the day and celebrates service excellence during the evening.

At the conference, we heard from some talented speakers, including our CEO and Founder, Jasminne Hristic, who provided a deep insight into the transformative power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the business world. The room was jam-packed as people were immersed in the potential of AI and how it could help provide a positive impact on their business journey.

We were so fortunate to meet face to face with some of our loyal customers, who were able to provide us with some incredible feedback about how our training is changing the lives of the people that they employ, and in turn, the participants that they support. To hear this directly from our customers was a privilege- and we thank you all for your ongoing support!

Jasminne presenting at ADSCA conference about the power of AI
Jasminne Hristic presenting the Awards on stage


In the evening, the NGO Training Centre was proud to sponsor the award for Best Accommodation Provider. The Best Accommodation Provider displayed the most innovative accommodation model, promoting a life of independence and providing a ‘home’ that meets the unique needs of EVERY individual in the house.

Each finalist achieved excellence in this area, and we want to extend heartfelt congratulations to the winners – Ability SDA!

We were lucky enough to help celebrate some of our customers who brought home awards on the evening for their distinguished service in the Disability Community. We are so proud of you all!

It was great to be part of celebrating and acknowledging the incredible work being achieved in the disability service sector.

A HUGE shout out to all of the incredible award finalists, and the fantastic presenting partners, Kismet & Tender Loving Cuisine.

Jasminne with winners Ability SDA

NGO Training Centre winners at the Business News Australia Gold Coast Young Entrepreneur's Awards

Breaking Business News: NGO Training Centre Triumphs at Business News Australia Gold Coast Young Entrepreneur’s Awards!

In a momentous celebration of dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to making a positive impact, we emerged victorious in the Professional Services category at the prestigious Business News Australia Gold Coast Young Entrepreneur’s Awards in October 2023!

This well-deserved recognition reflects six years of continuous effort in supporting Disability Support Organisations across Australia, striving to enhance the standards of care and support for people with disability in our community.

We have continued to grow, and now support over 30,000 learners across Australia.
Our impact extends to nearly 500 organisations, the resounding effect of our commitment to promoting exceptional service and quality support. The number continues to grow steadily, showing our dedication to expanding our positive impact across the disability sector.

Business news Australia Gold Coast 2023

The driving force behind this remarkable achievement is our team at NGO Training Centre, a group of individuals who embody passion, commitment and excellence. Each member has played a crucial role in contributing to the success of the organisation, and their collective efforts have met this well-deserved recognition. A huge congratulations to the entire team for their unwavering commitment to making a difference in the lives of those who need it the most.

We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to our incredible customer base. We recognise that without the trust and support of our valued customers, such success would not be possible.

To the dedicated customers who have been a part of this journey, NGO Training Centre acknowledges that their success is intertwined with the success of those they serve. In the words of our CEO and Founder, Jasminne Hristic, “Your success is our success,” reinforcing the belief that the achievements of the NGO Training Centre are reflective of the collective accomplishments of the organisations and individuals they support.

We are so proud and look forward to the final celebration in November.

Disability Royal Commission Update

What do the recommendations mean for you as Disability Service Providers?

In late September 2023, the Disability Royal Commission concluded its inquiry into Violence, Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation of People with Disability, releasing a comprehensive report comprising 12 Volumes and 222 recommendations. The report envisions a more inclusive Australia for the one in six Australians living with disability.

The government has taken swift action by initiating a response through the Commonwealth Disability Royal Commission Taskforce. This taskforce, engaging closely with the disability community and spanning various departments, will play a pivotal role in assessing and implementing the recommendations, complete with robust tracking and monitoring systems. A staged response is anticipated, with an update scheduled for early 2024.

Of the 222 recommendations, several directly concern Disability service providers.

Here are a few noteworthy ones:

  1. A review to shift away from having the same provider deliver Supported Independent Living and Specialist Disability Accommodation, with a call for explicit timeframes and annual reporting on progress.
  2. Introduction of a capacity-building program to assist disability service providers in integrating human rights into the design and delivery of their services.
  3. Separation of support coordination and other funded supports, along with ensuring support coordination funding for those at higher risk of abuse, especially those in supported accommodation.
  4. Establishment of a National Disability Support Worker registration scheme by July 1, 2028.
  5. The NDIS Commission, in consultation with participants and stakeholders, to produce model procedures for providers, focusing on incident and complaint management.
  6. Enhancement of NDIS practice standards on governance, including more prescriptive quality indicators, and development of guidance on best practice governance models for NDIS providers.
  7. A call for the National Disability Research Partnership to commission a longitudinal study on the impact of positive behaviour support and strategies to reduce restrictive practices, with targets and performance indicators by July 1, 2025.
  8. Positive news for providers: a comprehensive review of the provider registration process, aiming to simplify it for smaller providers, improve the NDIS Commission portal, and reduce duplication for organizations working across multiple schemes. Additionally, suggestions for easier and more cost-effective certification audits in areas with workforce shortages or thin markets.

Wondering how the NGO Training Centre can benefit you during these transformative times?

We offer a comprehensive suite of courses designed to bolster your staff’s capabilities and keep you ahead of the curve amid the impending reforms.

Our commitment doesn’t stop there – we are dedicated to keeping you well-informed about any shifts in legislation and NDIS provider requirements.

At NGO Training Centre, we offer more than just training – we stand by your side as your dedicated partners in success, providing unwavering support for your team as they navigate through reforms with confidence, enabling your organisation to flourish in the continually evolving landscape.

Ensuring your compliance with regulations, implementing best practices, and fostering the success of both your staff and participants are our highest priorities.

Written by Amanda Robinson

Amanda’s expertise lies in disability, mental health, aged care and navigating the complex terrain of the Disability Sector. She is a passionate advocate, a strategic leader, and a catalyst for positive change.

Dinesh Palipana OAM: Inspiring Purpose and Empathy in the Disability Sector

This article explores the significance of purpose and its impact on individuals working within the Disability Sector.

In a world were finding purpose and meaning can be a challenging endeavour, the story of Dinesh Palipana OAM shines as a beacon of inspiration. As an Australian doctor, lawyer, scientist, and disability advocate, Dinesh has broken barriers and defied expectations. Today, the NGO Training Centre Team had the honour of filming his life story, a powerful video aimed at helping individuals connect strongly with their “Purpose in Life.”

·         Unveiling the Remarkable Journey: Dinesh Palipana OAM’s journey is one of extraordinary courage and determination. As the first quadriplegic medical intern in Queensland, Australia, and the second person with quadriplegia to graduate as a doctor in the country, he has carved a path that was previously uncharted. Most notably, Dinesh’s achievement as the first doctor with a spinal cord injury demonstrates the limitless potential that lies within every individual, regardless of their physical abilities.

·         Connecting with “Why”: Discovering one’s purpose in life is a profound quest that many find elusive. However, for those working within the Disability Sector, the opportunity to connect more deeply with their “Why” is exceptionally valuable. This video capturing Dinesh’s life story serves as a catalyst, reminding individuals of the importance of their work and the impact they have on others.

·         A Personal Mission: Energy, Clarity, and Peace: Dinesh Palipana OAM’s journey exemplifies the significance of a personal mission. Having a clear sense of purpose empowers individuals, providing them with energy, clarity, and a sense of peace. For those working in the Disability Sector, this personal mission can ignite passion and drive, enabling them to navigate challenges and persevere in their commitment to making a positive difference.

·         Empathy and Connection: One of the key outcomes of Dinesh’s life story is the ability to foster a deeper sense of empathy and connection. By showcasing the challenges he has faced and overcome, the video encourages viewers, particularly employees in the disability sector, to empathise more profoundly with the individuals they support. Recognising the importance of their work, they can develop a deeper understanding of the impact they have on the lives of others.

·         Unlocking the Importance of Work: Through the powerful medium of storytelling, the video featuring Dinesh Palipana OAM encourages individuals to unlock the intrinsic value in their work. It serves as a reminder that every interaction, every effort, and every moment spent supporting others holds immense importance. By rekindling a sense of purpose and reaffirming the significance of their role, employees in the disability sector can find renewed inspiration and motivation in their daily work.

Dinesh Palipana in a wheel chair doing a shoot

Dinesh Palipana OAM’s story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the transformative power of purpose. Through the video capturing his remarkable journey, individuals within the Disability Sector are invited to connect more deeply with their “Why.” This connection ignites passion, empathy, and a sense of fulfillment, ensuring that their work remains infused with purpose and meaning. As we continue to navigate life’s challenges, let us draw inspiration from Dinesh’s extraordinary story, reminding ourselves of the profound impact we can have when we find purpose in what we do.

Follow Dinesh on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dineshpalipana/

And check out his amazing book “Stronger”: https://www.amazon.com.au/Stronger-Dinesh-Palipana/dp/1760984787

Hayley Assaf speaks to the NGO Training about High-Risk Support Audit Requirements and the NDIS High Intensity Supports and Skill Descriptors 2022.

Hayley Assaf is a NDIS Lead Auditor, Registered Nurse, Technical Expert and NDIS Consultant. 

In a recent enlightening event organised by the NGO Training Centre, Hayley, an expert in High-Risk Support Audits, captivated the audience with her extensive knowledge and experience. Having conducted over 500 audits in this specialised field, Hayley’s expertise shed light on crucial topics related to compliance, NDIS practice standards, and quality indicators. This article highlights the key takeaways from Hayley’s discussion, providing valuable insights for organisations and professionals operating in the disability sector.

1. NDIS Organisation Types and Organisation Requirements: During the webinar, Hayley delved into the diverse NDIS organisation types and the specific requirements associated with each. She emphasised the significance of understanding these requirements to ensure compliance and the delivery of high-quality services. By addressing the unique needs and expectations of different organisation types, professionals can better navigate the intricacies of the NDIS framework and effectively support individuals with disabilities.

2. Compliance with NDIS Practice Standards and Quality Indicators: Hayley’s expertise extended to the alignment of the NGO Training Centre’s courses with the NDIS Practice Standards and Quality Indicators. She highlighted how the training provided by the NGO Training Centre equips professionals with the necessary skills and knowledge to meet the stringent standards set by the NDIS. By ensuring compliance, organisations can enhance their service delivery, promote client satisfaction, and maintain a strong reputation within the sector.

3. Revised High Intensity Supports and Skill Descriptor Dec 2022: The webinar also covered the recently revised High Intensity Supports and Skill Descriptor, which came into effect in December 2022. Hayley provided participants with an overview of the changes and discussed the implications for organisations and professionals. Understanding these revisions is essential for adapting service delivery models, upskilling staff, and maintaining compliance as the sector evolves.

4. Questions and Answers from the audience: The session was concluded with an engaging Q&A session, where participants had the opportunity to seek clarification and further insights from Hayley Assaf. The questions raised covered various aspects of High-Risk Support Audits, compliance challenges, and strategies for improving service quality. Hayley’s thoughtful responses and practical advice enriched the learning experience, providing participants with actionable takeaways.

In summary, by embracing the knowledge shared by Hayley, professionals can enhance their service delivery, improve outcomes for individuals with disabilities, and contribute to the continued growth and
development of the sector.

For more information about Hayley Assaf and her work, as well as to explore upcoming events and training opportunities, please explore our ‘About Us’ or ‘Contact Us’ pages.

About the NGO Training Centre: The NGO Training Centre is a leading platform dedicated to providing training, resources, and support to NGOs and non-profit organisations across various sectors. With a commitment to fostering professional development and capacity building, the NGO Training Centre serves as a hub for knowledge exchange, collaboration, and innovation in the nonprofit sector.

Follow Hayley on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hayley-assaf-rn-7833b6214/

The NGO Training Centre’s CEO, Jasminne Hristic speaks at the ADSCA about recruitment and retention strategies that actually work, and guess what, the answer lies in Neuroscience and Social Influencing.

The NGO Training Centre’s CEO, Jasminne Hristic was invited to speak at the Gold Coast Convention Centre for the ADSCA is the Australian Disability Service Conference and Awards, hosted by One Community. 

Jasminne Hristic, with a Master’s Degree in Business and an impressive track record of over 15+ years in executive coaching and transformation management, lead a thought-provoking discussion on the intersection of neuroscience advancements and social behaviour engineering insights for enhancing employee engagement and retention in disability support organisations.

During her insightful discussion, Jasminne Hristic emphasised the need for disability support organisations to leverage the knowledge of neuroscience and social behaviour engineering.

She went on to explain, that social behaviour engineering and neuroscience intersect in fascinating ways, offering insights into how organisations can optimise employee experiences and foster a positive work environment. In fact, organisations that embrace these practices experience a remarkable 30-40% increase in employee well-being and engagement, leading to enhanced productivity and exceptional outcomes.

These topics may sound too theoretical, but in fact the opposite is true, the true beauty of them is that they provide a very clear, which is easy to follow and implement. In this article I will provide you with the introduction information Jasminne provided, but for more information. Reach out the NGO Training Centre Team.

Social behaviour engineering, or social design approaches involves applying evidence-based principles to influence and shape human behaviour within social contexts. By leveraging knowledge from disciplines such as psychology, sociology, and behavioural economics, organisations can design interventions and strategies that drive desired behaviours and outcomes. This can include implementing path-suggestions, designing incentive structures, and creating supportive environments that encourage positive social behaviours.

Neuroscience, on the other hand, explores the workings of the brain and nervous system, providing a deeper understanding of how our brains process information, make decisions, and experience emotions. Neuroscience research has revealed the impact of social interactions on the brain and the importance of creating environments that promote well-being and engagement. It has also shed light on the neural mechanisms underlying emotions, empathy, and social cognition.

When it comes to employee engagement and well-being, combining social behaviour engineering and neuroscience can lead to powerful outcomes. By incorporating principles from social behaviour engineering, organisations can design interventions that influence employee behaviours and attitudes. For example, they can implement recognition programs that leverage the brain’s reward system, fostering a positive work environment and increasing motivation.

Neuroscience insights can inform the design of these interventions by identifying the brain mechanisms associated with employee engagement and satisfaction. By understanding how the brain processes social stimuli and experiences, organisations can tailor their strategies to activate neural pathways associated with positive emotions, trust, and social connection. This can include creating opportunities for collaboration, fostering a sense of belonging, and promoting inclusive practices.

Furthermore, neuroscience research emphasises the importance of factors such as autonomy, fairness, and status in influencing employee engagement and well-being. By integrating these findings into social behaviour engineering strategies, organisations can create environments that support employees’ social and emotional needs, leading to increased job satisfaction, productivity, and retention.

In summary, social behaviour engineering and neuroscience provide complementary perspectives for optimising employee experiences. By leveraging the insights from both fields, organisations can design interventions that influence behaviour, foster positive social interactions, and create workplaces that enhance employee engagement and well-being. This integration of disciplines holds great potential for creating thriving work environments and driving organisational success.

For more information on Jasminne Hristic and her work, as well as to explore upcoming events and training opportunities, please explore our ‘About Us’ page or subscribe to our Newsletter.

Follow Jasminne on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasminne-hristic-02b72416/

Dr. Ben Gauntlett Addresses Workforce Participation and Disability Policy Reform

Some members of the NGO Training Centre team had the honour of meeting Dr. Ben Gauntlett, Disability Discrimination Commissioner at the Australian Human Rights Commission recently in Sydney. Dr. Ben Gauntlet Addresses Workforce Participation and Disability Policy Reform ideas should be heard by everyone. Here are the key takeaways.

Dr. Ben Gauntlett, shed light on concerning statistics such as:

“The participation rate for people with disability is and has remained at 53% for 28 years. The participation rate for people without disability is 83%. The participation rate for people with disability includes people legally employed at or around $3 per hour”.

He outlined five key points to drive change and promote inclusion in the workforce.

1. The first point addressed the need for a Workplace Disability Equality Agency that would research, assess, and promote strategies for recruiting, retaining, and advancing people with disabilities in long-term careers.

2. Dr. Gauntlett emphasised the importance of community engagement in disability inclusion, revealing that less than 20% of the top 50 ASX listed companies have a disability action plan under the Disability Discrimination Act. He called for greater participation from businesses in developing and implementing comprehensive disability inclusion plans.

3. Law reform was the third point raised by Dr. Gauntlet, as 50% of all complaints received by the Australian Human Rights Commission pertain to disability discrimination, often within employment settings. He advocated for a regulatory framework that leads to systemic change and prevents exploitation, ensuring equal opportunities and protections for individuals with disabilities.

4. Dr. Gauntlet stressed the significance of analysing the interrelationship between employment, training, and other policy frameworks. He highlighted the potential trade-offs individuals with disabilities face between government support and pursuing employment, urging a review and potential refinement of policies such as the disability pension to better serve the diverse needs of the disability community.

5. In the final point, Dr. Gauntlet emphasised the importance of embedding people with disabilities in new industries and projects through training and work opportunities. He highlighted the need for universal design considerations upfront, aligning with the principle of diversity and inclusion.

In conclusion, Dr. Ben Gauntlet’s address shed light on the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and their lower workforce participation rates. He advocated for policy changes in the form of a Workplace Disability Equality Agency, greater community engagement, law reform, comprehensive analysis of policy frameworks, and increased opportunities for training and work integration. By addressing these key areas, Dr. Gauntlet aims to create a more inclusive society where good disability policy benefits all Australians, recognising that 4.4 million Australians live with disabilities and 2.65 million have caring responsibilities.

Follow Dr. Ben Gauntlett on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-gauntlett-43a89938/

NGO Training Center Online NDIS learning
Trigger Sidebar Cart0
×
Your cart is empty. Return Home