The Plan Management/NDIS sector can present unique challenges for women, including balancing caring responsibilities for children, elderly or disabled family members with work. However, these challenges can be overcome through flexible working arrangements and a commitment to diversity and inclusion. As the industry continues to evolve, women are well-positioned to bring new perspectives and ideas to the table, contributing to innovation and better service delivery.
Nicole, a female leader in Plan Management, shares her insights on the industry and provides advice for women who are just starting out. She highlights the rewarding and constantly evolving nature of the sector, as well as the importance of building relationships and listening to others. In terms of creating a more inclusive and equitable NDIS system, Nicole believes that women leaders can play a vital role in advocating for the needs of people living with a disability, addressing gender bias and inequality, and promoting disability inclusion.
Q: What do you think are some of the unique challenges that women face in the plan management / NDIS sector, and how can these be overcome?
A: “The challenges that women face are not specific to Plan Management/NDIS sector across the board in all industries – Women experience specific challenges related to caring responsibilities for children, elderly or disabled family members, which can impact their ability to work full-time or have flexible work arrangements. Here at YPM we really value all our employee’s work-life balance and have created flexible working arrangements for those staff that require it”.
Q: How have you seen the plan management industry change and evolve during your career, and what role do you see women playing in the future?
A: “Women are well-positioned to bring diverse perspectives and new ideas to the table, which can contribute to innovation and better service delivery. It’s crucial to ensure that women have equal opportunities to advance their careers and leadership positions, encouraging diversity and inclusion can help to create a more balanced and equitable workforce and benefit the industry as a whole”.
Q: As a female leader in plan management, what advice would you give to other women who are just starting out in this field?
A: “It’s such a great industry to be a part of as it’s forever evolving and very rewarding. It’s a work sector with a predominantly female workforce and I have come across so very inspiring women who have come from all walks of life. My advice is to listen to others, ask questions, and build on your relationships, this in itself is the reward”.
Q: What advice do you have for women who are interested in pursuing a career in the plan management industry?
A: “It’s a very rewarding career, with lots of job satisfaction, you will meet and work with some amazing people”.
Q: In your opinion, what role can women leaders play in creating a more inclusive and equitable NDIS system?
A: “Women leaders can play a vital role in creating a more inclusive and equitable NDIS system by promoting diversity and inclusion, addressing gender bias and inequality, advocating for the needs of people living with disability, and engaging with the wider community to promote disability inclusion”.
Summary
By encouraging diversity and inclusion, promoting equal opportunities for career advancement, and advocating for the needs of people living with a disability, women leaders in Plan Management can help to create a more inclusive and equitable NDIS system. With their unique perspectives and ideas, women are well-positioned to contribute to innovation and better service delivery, making the industry a rewarding and fulfilling career path.
As we celebrate International Women’s Day, let us reflect on the progress that has been made in the plan management/NDIS sector for women, but also consider what more can be done to support and empower women in this industry. What actions can we take to continue moving towards a more equitable and inclusive future for all women in the workforce?