Maryborough disability accommodation providing independence for residents

Funding from the Palaszczuk Government is allowing three Maryborough locals with disability to enjoy the independence and freedom that comes from living in recently-renovated disability accommodation units.                                                                              

Disability Services Minister Coralee O’Rourke today (12 Sept) took a tour of Community Housing Ltd’s recently refurbished Wiles House, which received more than $526,500 in Palaszczuk Government funding to support the redevelopment of the property.   

“Walking around Wiles House today, it is clear these units represent far more than just accommodation – it’s providing the residents living here with a chance to live their life, on their own terms,” Mrs O’Rourke said.

“Each of the three, two-bedroom units is fully wheelchair accessible with the redevelopment specifically designed to support the needs of individuals with high and complex physical support needs, providing access to 24/7 care.

“This means the residents here not only enjoy purpose-built accommodation, but the security and comfort of round the clock care.”

The Palaszczuk Government also provides $594,000 in recurrent funding to Community Lifestyles Agency to support the residents of Wiles House.

Community Housing Ltd’s Managing Director Steve Bevington says their organisation had a long history of more than 20 years of providing innovative housing options for those with a disability.

“CHL are pleased to have been a part of this collaborative partnership with the Queensland Government as it is a terrific resource for those with a disability and their families in the region,” he said.

Mrs O’Rourke said the Palaszczuk Government recognised people with disability had faced a critical shortage of appropriate housing which meant many had faced long term stays in aged care or public health facilities.

“That’s why we are committed to helping people achieve independence, gain confidence and transition into suitable and permanent accommodation in the community,” she said.

“Our government is taking action to address this problem which is why we allocated $6 million to six non-government organisations through our accommodation scheme for people in inappropriate settings, in the 2015/16 state budget.

“This scheme is creating new housing options for more than 30 people with disability who have high physical support needs.

“It’s about improving community access and inclusion for people with disability.

“Just like the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), this initiative gives people with disability more accommodation options and will broaden the choice of services available to them.”

For more information on the NDIS visit https://www.communities.qld.gov.au/gateway/reform-and-renewal/disability-services/national-disability-insurance-scheme-in-queensland

ENDS

Media Contact: Benjamin Mulcahy 0419 562 389