$31M boost for disability support: government funds programs for inclusion & community building to support Australians with disabilities.

The Australian Government has announced a significant investment of over $31 million to support 26 organisations working to improve the lives of people with disabilities. This funding, distributed through the Information, Linkages and Capacity Building (ILC) program, will empower communities and enhance support for Australians with disabilities.

“The 22 community-based organisations and the work that they do are critical to people with disability, their families and the local communities they operate in – this funding ensures they can continue to deliver capacity building supports ahead of the Foundational Supports reforms commencing,” said Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme, Bill Shorten.

A key highlight is the $10 million allocated to the Disability Dialogue over four years. This initiative, led by people with disability, will empower the community to shape disability policy and ensure their voices are central to government decision-making. “For the first time, it’s the other way around where the community has been given the resources to drive the disability policy agenda,” Minister Shorten emphasised.

Recognising the importance of early intervention, the Government is also funding initiatives to support First Nations children with disability. SNAICC and NACCHO will receive funding to enhance the capacity of the early childhood workforce and improve support for First Nations families. “These projects will generate new best practice resources and training for the First Nations early childhood and health sectors so that families can be effectively supported and informed and children can be identified and connected to supports sooner,” said Minister for Social Services, Amanda Rishworth.

Furthermore, Autism CRC will receive an additional $6 million to expand its resources and capacity-building programs for mainstream services. These resources will equip professionals with the knowledge and skills to better support autistic individuals and their families.

The ILC program plays a crucial role in connecting people with disability to their communities, building their skills and confidence, and improving their access to essential services. This latest funding demonstrates the Government’s commitment to empowering people with disability and fostering a more inclusive society.

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