Canberra’s disability sector will receive a further $6.3 million in funding to help the ACT adapt to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).
Minister for Disability Joy Burch said the funding would go to initiatives and activities that help organisations to support families and carers to prepare for the NDIS, build culturally appropriate supports and services and develop the capacity of new and existing services.
“This $6.3 million is the next instalment of the $12.5 million in sector development funding earmarked for the ACT from the Commonwealth Government.”
“We have already invested $3.3 million in initiatives such as Community Conversations and Capacity Building workshops, and more than $1.2 million in funding to local organisations and providers.
“This instalment will target market development and growth in new services as funding for the ACT disability sector doubles to $342 million by 2019-20.
“Last weekend’s Early Intervention and Therapy Services Expo highlighted the range of services which will be provided in the ACT from next year, with 50 providers showing what they can offer.
“About 1,000 people attended the Expo and the response has been overwhelmingly positive.
“Developing a robust and diverse disability sector is paramount, which is why the ACT Government will look to invest in activities that provide assistance and advice to service providers, assist with compliance of national standards and promote career pathways.
“We will also look to host a wide-ranging NDIS conference early next year, which will bring together people with disabilities, service providers and experts to discuss the ACT trial and look at ways we can continue to strengthen our sector.”
