Media Release by The Hon Scott Morrison MP

Abbott Government to fund St Giles’ speech program

Joint Media Release with:

  • Andrew Nikolic AM CSC MP, Member for Bass and Government Whip

Minister for Social Services, the Hon. Scott Morrison and Federal member for Bass, Andrew Nikolic today announced the Abbott Government will commit more than $790,000 over two-years to the St Giles organisation, ensuring continuity of the organisation’s important programmes helping children and families.

Minister Morrison said: “I would like to acknowledge the strong representations made by Andrew Nikolic, on behalf of St Giles and for highlighting the services St Giles provides in Northern Tasmania.

“The early intervention speech pathology and behavioural support programs are being supported by the government pending the transition of these services to the NDIS.”

Mr Nikolic welcomed Minister Morrison’s announcement.

“I am most grateful that Minister Morrison has responded so positively, with $791,400 of funding for St Giles,” Mr Nikolic said.

“Of the total funding grant, $395,700 will be specifically for the speech therapy and behavioural support services.

“St Giles receives annual State and Federal government funding of around $15 million and these services are a legacy of previous arrangements.”

St Giles provides important speech pathology support for children not yet at school and assists children up to the age of 12 with behaviour support.