Budget delivers for seniors and people with disability

The Palaszczuk Government is continuing to deliver for seniors and people with disabilities as part of the state’s economic recovery plan, with today’s State Budget showcasing its investment in support services.

Minister for Seniors, Disability Services and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Craig Crawford said the Budget is ensuring some of our most vulnerable Queenslanders get the help they need.

“Seniors and people with disabilities will be amongst the big beneficiaries of the budget with the Palaszczuk Government investing in services and support,” Mr Crawford said.

“This is all about building an inclusive state where all Queenslanders can thrive.

“Seniors and people with disabilities have been hit hard by the impacts of COVID and it’s important they are supported as we continue our economic recovery.

“We will continue to support people with disability following the full rollout of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).

“We are providing funding of $14.6 million over four years, and $3.6 million ongoing, to support peak and representative bodies.

“This will build the capacity of the disability and community care sector to deliver viable, cost effective and quality services.

“Further funding of $8.1 million over two years will also boost advocacy services to help Queenslanders with disability to access mainstream services, safeguard wellbeing and deal with NDIS related issues.

“There is a high need for advocacy services to ensure people with disability have access to the NDIS and this investment will help meet that growing demand.”

“It’s vitally important to have positive behavioural support for Queenslanders with disability which is why we’re providing $6.6 million over two years.

“Further funding of $7.3 million over four years and $1.8 million ongoing will provide support for former disability services clients who are ineligible for services under the NDIS.

“There is also $5.1 million over four years and $1.4 million ongoing to advance disability services functions.”

Mr Crawford said ensuring Queensland seniors could live their lives free from physical, emotional and financial abuse was a top priority for the Queensland Government.

“The 2021-22 State Budget delivers a strong plan to support and safeguard older Queenslanders by committing $4.8 million over four years and $1.2 million per year ongoing, for seniors’ legal and support services, financial protection advice and a scams and fraud protection helpline for seniors,” Mr Crawford said.

“This State Budget will help enable Queenslanders of all ages, abilities and locations to participate and be included in their communities, be resilient and enjoy everything this wonderful state has to offer.”

For more information about the 2021-22 State Budget visit budget.qld.gov.au.

ENDS

Media contact: Richard O’Leary 0447 155 332