State Government announces $200,000 in grants on International Day of People with a Disability

The State Government has committed $200,000 to build supportive communities on International Day of People with Disability (December 3).

Disability Services Minister Annastacia Palaszczuk today announced $200,000 in funding for the Building Supportive Communities grants program.

“The State Government’s Building Supportive Communities initiative encourages communities to be more supportive and inclusive of people with a disability,” she said.

“We’re providing $200,000 to help community groups across Queensland stage events and activities that promote positive attitudes and support people with a disability.

“There are many different ways in which communities can promote the inclusion and participation of people with a disability – including awards events for carers and volunteers, workshops, sporting activities and art exhibitions.”

Ms Palaszczuk said grants of between $500 and $5,000 are available to community organisations under the program.

She said International Day of People with a Disability was a chance for all Queenslanders to show their support for people with a disability.

“International Day of People with a Disability has been held since 1992 to encourage support and respect for people with a disability,” Ms Palaszczuk said.

“It’s about promoting understanding of people with a disability and encouraging support for their dignity, rights and wellbeing.

“People with a disability can achieve extraordinary things - we need to focus on their abilities, not their disabilities.”

Ms Palaszczuk said the State Government was investing a record $1.61 billion in disability and community care services in 2010-11.

“We’re delivering more supported accommodation, extra respite for carers and an expansion of autism early intervention services and post school services right across Queensland,” she said.

For more information about the Building Supportive Communities grants, visit www.disability.qld.gov.au or call 1800 177 120.

Minister’s office 3237 1944