People living with a disability in Geelong are now receiving care closer to home and closer to family and friends, thanks to an Andrews Labor Government initiative.
Minister for Disability, Ageing and Carers Luke Donnellan has visited the region’s newest purpose-built disability housing in Geelong – part of a $25 million Labor Government investment to end institutionalised disability care.
The house in Hamlyn Heights is one of 15 new homes for the 74 residents of Colanda – Victoria’s last institution for people with disability, located in Colac.
Seven of the new homes will be in Geelong, with four already completed and the residents moved in.
The new homes offer 24-hour support, personal space and privacy, and have been built in close consultation with the residents to ensure their needs and preferences are met.
Most importantly, the new homes are in many cases located much closer to residents’ families.
Six of the other homes will be in Colac, and one each in Warrnambool and Ballarat.
The Hamlyn Heights house visited by the minister is home to five former Colanda residents. It holds five spacious bedrooms, a staff office and en suite, two resident bathrooms, a large open plan kitchen and dining area, and an undercover outdoor area.
All the new homes are expected to be completed and the last Colanda residents moved in by the end of this year.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Disability, Ageing and Carers Luke Donnellan
“I’m proud that the Andrews Labor Government’s $25 million investment is bringing the era of institutionalised care to an end in Victoria.”
“We are replacing outdated disability institutions with tailored homes in the community that are happier and healthier places to live in.”
“This is all part of our work to ensure people with disability have more say in
Reviewed 19 August 2020