There are ways to make our social services more effective - and it lies in giving those who need help more choice.

A new report from the Productivity Commission has found problems with the way agencies deal with people with special or complex needs.

The commission has recommended some changes be made.

IHC General Manager of Programmes Janine Stewart agrees with the report and says people aren't receiving what they need most, because each case is given the same resources.

"If individuals are given more choice, and are able to make decisions around need, they actually often use less, because they are only using the things they require to support them."

Stewart says you can't treat all individuals living with a disability the same.

"One of our focuses is early intervention and support of families. It's incredibly important, rather than actually looking at people with an intellectual disability as a group."

Janine Stewart says both private and state run organisations have the ability to do this.

However, there was some criticism of the proposals.

Council of Trade Unions Secretary Sam Huggard said the report completely ignores the experiential input of the workforce in social services.

He said teachers, doctors and social workers are left out of the mix:

"One of the things, and it's a bit of a glaring omission, is discussion of workforce issues, and workforce planning."

"You need a well trained, supported and mentored workforce."