Grants open across Queensland for events celebrating disability

Local community groups, schools, sports clubs and other non-government organisations can now apply for a grant to hold an event during this year’s Disability Action Week or International Day of People with Disability.

Disability Services Minister Coralee O’Rourke said Disability Community Event Grants of up to $5000 were available for events and activities that welcomed and included people with disability in everyday life.

“The Palaszczuk Government is committed to making a difference to the lives of people with disability, their families and carers right across Queensland,” Mrs O’Rourke said.

“We’re offering grants for events that promote the rights and wellbeing of people with disability; strengthen how they access and are included in their community; or encourage mainstream services and the broader community to connect and engage with people with disability,” she said.

“We are also looking for events that support communities, local businesses and community services to take up opportunities presented by the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) which will roll out in Queensland from 1 July 2016.

“When the NDIS starts in Queensland, it will benefit thousands of Queenslanders with disability, their families, carers and the wider community by enabling greater social and economic participation of people with disability.”

Mrs O’Rourke said Disability Community Event Grants were a great opportunity to engage with people with disability and help break down barriers to accessibility and inclusion.

Almost $150,000 in total is available for events to be held across the state during Disability Action Week 2015 (13-19 September) or on International Day of People with Disability (3 December).

Applications close on Monday 15 June 2015.

For information about the grants, and the types of events to be funded in 2015, go to www.qld.gov.au/disabilityactionweek

For information about the NDIS visit www.ndis.gov.au or call the NDIS Hotline on 1800 800 110. People with hearing or speech loss may call TTY 1800 555 677.

Media Contact: Minister O’Rourke’s office 3719 7184