Scope CEO Dr Jennifer Fitzgerald said, “Today is a momentous day for people with a disability and their families.

“Victorians have declared that people with a disability will no longer live in poverty, hardship and social isolation.

“The NDIS will deliver choice and control to people with a disability and enables them to participate in community as equal citizens.

“We commend both the Commonwealth and Victorian Governments – including Assistant Social Services Minister Mitch Fifield and Victorian Disability Minister Martin Foley – for this great achievement in signing the bilateral agreement.

“Victoria has always been a leader in the area of disability services and reform; and Scope has been at the forefront. We were an active advocate for the National Disability Insurance Scheme through the Every Australian Counts campaign.

“Scope is well prepared for the NDIS. Our successful participation in the Barwon trial site over the last two years gives us momentum to successfully transition.”

“We have already seen the positive outcomes in the lives of people we support in Barwon.”

Zane McKenzie, an NDIS participant supported by Scope excitedly describes the outcomes in his life.

“The NDIS is a revolution in supporting people with disabilities. Because of the flexibility in the system, I now have the ability to work independently, experience better health and fitness, and receive the appropriate amount of personal support in everyday life.

“What’s more I am in control of how and when I receive support, in a way I could not have been in the past! And importantly, as I am the one who makes decisions and choices- as my life needs change, so do my supports in my package. It really is a new approach, and a great way of thinking!”

Scope will continue to support people with a disability across all our services to transition to the NDIS and embrace the opportunities the scheme will bring.