$4.1 million boost for disability services

Queensland’s disability services sector will receive a $4.1 million boost for capital works to improve and increase day support services and programs for people with a disability.

Disability Services Minister Warren Pitt said the significant funding package would allow non-government service providers to upgrade or build facilities for centre-based day services and provide programs for people with a disability.

“The demand for disability services continues to steadily increase, putting more pressure on service providers and the disability sector in general,” Mr Pitt said.

“Strengthening the capacity of our non-government partners to deliver quality services is a priority for the Queensland Government.

“I am pleased to deliver this funding as part of my commitment to continue our support of Queenslanders with a disability, their families and carers.”

Mr Pitt said this funding allocation would be used to expand existing or construct new centre-based day services, incorporating Post School Services activities programs.

The Post School Services Program provides a range of options and opportunities for young people with a disability as they transition from school to life as an adult.

Centre-based day services support people with a disability to lead quality lives through activities such as community access, adult education and skills development.

Mr Pitt said the combination of the two programs allowed young people to obtain significantly more support through the purchase of shared arrangements.

The $4.1 million funding package incorporates a range of grants programs including $4 million for capital grants that will be allocated in two stages: $3 million to contribute to and assist with the purchase or modification of new services; and $1 million for the purchase or modification of existing day services.

The remaining $100,000 will be allocated to non-government service providers to develop proposals for new centre-based day services.

“This announcement recognises that providing people with a disability with the best possible support requires the involvement of hundreds of dedicated and committed non-government service providers throughout the state,” Mr Pitt said.

“This funding is another example of how the Queensland Government is supporting the disability services sector to cope with increasing demand and to raise the quality of service provision and support.”

An application kit for funding under this initiative is available by calling 3224 6435 or by visiting www.disability.qld.gov.au and following the “Funding available” link

Applications close 31 October 2007.

Media contact: Minister Pitt’s Office 3235 4280