STUDY OF UNMET DEMAND FOR THE DISABILITY REFORM PACKAGE

The Department of Social Security required a review of the unmet and future demand for the Disability Reform Package (DRP) which was a program designed to increase employment opportunities for people with disabilities.

Surveys were designed and conducted continuously throughout Australia over nine months for both clients of the DRP and service providers, in order to assess how well the program had met its objectives and client needs. Focus groups with clients were conducted to supplement the survey data with qualitative data. Additionally, in partnership with the Actuarial Services of Coopers & Lybrand, a statistical study was conducted to predict the rate of demand for the DRP in the future. Findings from the survey were incorporated in to policy for the future development of services.

Margaret Goode designed the study and was the project manager for the study. Hugh Watson was Review Partner for the study.