Funding package provides helping hand for Goodna families

A Goodna family support program will receive more than $700,000 over the next three years to continue its vital service for local families.

The Minister for Communities, Warren Pitt, said approval had been given for triennial funding of $247,613 for the Ozcare Goodna Integrated Family Support Service.

He said the service provided early intervention and prevention support to “at risk” children who attended Goodna State School and Goodna Special School, and their families.

It is one of 12 pilot programs being delivered under the Queensland Government’s Future Directions funding scheme. The family support program works in partnership with local service providers and government departments to provide services including counselling, support and advocacy services and life skills development.

Member for Bundamba Jo-Ann Miller said the Ozcare Goodna service made a substantial difference to the lives of local children and their families.

“The service helps families by providing them with accurate and comprehensive information via a single access point, allowing them to tackle a wide range of family issues,” she said.

“It has also developed a range of parenting strategies that respect the families’ dignity and promote active participation in the community.”

Mr Pitt said the 12 pilot programs were currently under review to determine future funding arrangements.

“The evaluation of the Ozcare Goodna Integrated Family Support Service has revealed exemplary results of early intervention and prevention support programs,” he said.

“Preliminary findings have shown improvements in school attendance and in parenting skills, as well as enhanced coping skills for children with a disability.”

Media contact: Joe Begley (for Minister Pitt) 3235 4286
Jo-Ann Miller 3288 3737