Minister sees funding at work during visit to Self Help Workplace

The Minister for Community Services, John Cobb, today visited the new Self Help Workplace, and was accompanied by local Member for the electorate of Bass, Michael Ferguson who opened it on 1st September 2006 on his behalf.

‘Australian Government funding assisted with building projects such as a commercial kitchen for training and catering purposes and will improve Occupational Health and Safety for employees,’ Mr Cobb said.

‘The business receives more than $324,000 in Australian Government funding under the Disability Employment Assistance Program for the support of 46 employees with disability.

‘It’s great to come and see the service for myself, after having heard the great work the service performs.

‘Self Help Workplace has been operational since 1962, providing employment for people with disability and integration of people with disabilities into the Launceston community.

‘The Workshop Division produces pallets and packing crates, survey pegs, furniture joinery and components.

‘It also provides a sewing, labelling, packaging, mailing and assembly service and operates Encore Clothing – a shopfront specialising in second-hand clothing and bulk cleaning rags.

‘Its encouraging to see the way Australian Government funding can strengthen an already strong organisation in its important work in supporting people with disability in communities such as this one,’ Mr Cobb said.