2h FROM THE MINISTER FOR COMMUNITY SERVICES

Tuesday, May 15 2001

ONECOMMUNITY FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITY

A $24 million, four-year boost for new services starting in 2001-02 takes total disability funds to a record high and underpins the Bracks Government’s vision to fully include people with a disability in community life.

The Minister for Community Services Minister, Christine Campbell, said disability services had been revitalised under the OneCommunity vision, with funds over two years increasing by 24.6% from $572 million to $713 million.

Ms Campbell said the new funding would go to high need areas to help people with a disability maximise their independence and participate actively in their communities.

“Accommodation support is critical to turn the rhetoric of community inclusion into reality, and we will this year spend an additional $6 million ($24 million over four years) to provide supported and transitional accommodation options for 100 people,” Ms Campbell said.

Providing on-going opportunities for young people with a disability leaving school was also vital to avoid isolation and maintain community links after formal schooling ends, she said.

In addition to this allocation of $24 million, the Government will continue to support ongoing programs to meet the needs of Victorians with disabilities.

“This year, $7 million from the Futures for Young Adults program will help 900 young school leavers successfully move to training and activities of their choice,” Ms Campbell said.

She said the OneCommunity vision aimed to make a difference in peoples’ day-to-day lives and reverse the serious neglect of the needs of disabled Victorians by the previous government.

The Bracks Government has secured an extra $12.3 million for disability services from the Federal Government under the Commonwealth State Disability Agreement.

“These funds will increase much needed support for the adult sons and daughters of ageing parents,” Ms Campbell said.

Areas receiving extra funds include:

  • $5.9 million for up to 150 home and community support packages with intensive support so people with disabilities can live with families in their local community;
  • $3.3 million for respite services, which will provide additional short-term breaks for 250 families on a planned or emergency basis; and
  • $3.1 million for tailored packages for 500 families caring for children with high needs.

Media contact: Tim Winkler 9651 5799/0407 688 632