Minister for Human Services Cassy O’Connor has handed STAR Tasmania the keys to a
new facility, which will open the doors to a range of programs for Tasmanians with
disability, as the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) pilot rolls out in the State.

STAR Tasmania is a specialised, community based organisation providing accommodation,
in home and respite services for people with disability through 21 sites across southern
Tasmania.

STAR Tasmania CEO Ralph Doedens said the new site in Bellerive, which is owned by the
Department of Economic Development, Tourism and the Arts, was originally sought as a
base for Star’s Community Access and School Holiday Programs.

“What started out as a base for our existing services will now also allow Star to provide
flexible, innovative programs to clients as part of the NDIS pilot in Tasmania,” Mr Doedens
said.

“STAR is working towards being NDIS-ready, and having the new site places us in an ideal
position to be able to offer services under the new scheme, such as skills development,
community access programs and transition planning.

“The NDIS pilot program will be launched across the State for around 1,000 eligible young
people aged 15 to 24.

“It will provide an opportunity for the sector to examine and improve the range of
programs needed for young people with disability to ensure a smooth transition between
school and work or higher education.

“Importantly, it will also support choice for people with disability, their families and
carers, and put people in control of the care and support they receive, based on need.
“STAR is excited about the possibility of being part of this opportunity to nurture and
sustain the support of families, carers and friendship groups — the very communities of
support that are critical to improving the lives of people with disability.”

The new facility will house the Star Tenancy Support Program and will be used for
Community Access Programs funded through Individual Support Packages as well as a
School Holiday Program for clients with Individual Support Package funding.
Supported Tenancy Accomodation and Respite