Additional funding for disability advocacy

The Turnbull Government is providing an additional $2.4 million a year for the National Disability Advocacy Program in New South Wales and Queensland.

The additional funding will ensure each state and territory receives equitable funding for advocacy from the Australian Government according to population.

Minister for Social Services Dan Tehan said the funding was in addition to the $60 million the Turnbull Government committed to disability advocacy in August 2017.

“The increase in funding will ensure more equitable access to National Disability Advocacy Program services for all Australians,” Mr Tehan said.

“All people with disability still need to have access to state and territory individual advocacy services. New South Wales, Queensland and other states will still need to provide disability services which are not covered by the National Disability Insurance Scheme.”

Assistant Minister for Social Services and Disability Services Jane Prentice said it was important to recognise the unique role independent advocacy played in assisting people with disability.

“We must ensure all 4.3 million Australians with disability, regardless of where they live or whether they are an NDIS participant, have equitable access to independent, disability advocacy services, to ensure their rights are promoted and protected,” Mrs Prentice said.

“Through our commitment to the National Disability Strategy 2010-2020, all levels of government are responsible for independent disability advocacy services.”