More Victorians living with disability will get the opportunities they deserve, with new investments to boost access, inclusion and participation.
The Victorian Budget 2018/19 includes $13.7 million to roll out key initiatives from the State Disability Plan 2017‑20, and support the continued transition to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).
The Andrews Labor Government is investing $9.2 million to give people with disabilities more opportunity, including:
- increasing employment opportunities and participation across the Victorian Public Sector for people with disabilities
- funding a feasibility study to make Geelong a more accessible and inclusive city
- expanding the Victorian Disability Advocacy Program to help disability organisations better support people entering the NDIS
- growing the highly successful Changing Places accessible public toilets program.
The Labor Government has led the way in promoting Changing Places facilities – with the Budget to fund 11 new, fully accessible toilets and changing facilities across the state. It will also see better access for people with disabilities visiting Carrum beach.
The Budget includes $4.5 million to continue Victoria’s roll out of the NDIS – with funding to support disability service clients entering the scheme, as well as providers, families and community organisations.
The NDIS is the biggest national social reform since the introduction of Medicare, giving greater independence, choice and flexibility to people with disability, and their carers and families.
By the time the scheme is fully operational, Victoria’s investment in the NDIS will be around $2.5 billion a year, supporting more than 105,000 people with disability.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Housing, Disability and Ageing Martin Foley
“Like anyone else, people with disability want to contribute to the life of our state. This investment will help make sure they get the chance.”
“We are giving people with disability the opportunities they deserve, while assisting families, carers and organisations in their transition to the NDIS.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020