It follows reflection on the scheme by North West-based disability provider Challenge Community Services about the difficulties already encountered across the region. 

Challenge deputy CEO Stephen Doley said adequate funding and speed of the transition were major hurdles the disability provider had to overcome, but he hopes it is smooth sailing from here on in.

“The NDIS has had it challenges,” Mr Doley told the Northern Daily Leader.

“Navigating the scheme for people with a disability and service providers has been difficult on occasions.”

Independent organisation, My Choice Matters,will empower people living with disability navigate the NDIS and live life their way, at its free workshop in Gunnedah on Wednesday, May 31.

Under the new NDIS, people now have an opportunity to receive individualised support and funding – a significant change from the current system. 

The workshop aims to help people learn and practice new ways of doing things and develop and grow skills in three key areas: choice, voice and control.

Workshop facilitators will provide practical, hands-on activities and take home tools for individuals. 

Workshops are free and open to anyone with a disability or who is a family member or carer. The organisation is able to supply interpreters, personal care and other assistance to make them as accessible as possible.

Facilitator Gloria Boyle said participants will be better informed about the NDIS, about their options and plans, and offered direction in forming personal goals.

“We give people the chance to really think about their lives and the things that are important to them as individuals, rather than just what is ‘on offer’,” she said. 

“They start considering hopes and dreams that they had put to the side due to a lack of opportunities.”

The Get More Skills: A Good Life workshop, will be held at Gunnedah Services and Bowling Club on May 31, running from 10am-2.30pm.

To register for the workshop visit: mychoicematters.org.au or call 1800 144 653.