Building innovative accommodation for people with disability in Werribee
The Minister for Disability Reform, Jenny Macklin turned the first sod on a new development in Werribee today which will provide a safe and accessible home for five adults with severe or profound disability.
“The Gillard Government has invested more than $1.9 million in the Yarra Community Housing project as part of the $60 million Supported Accommodation Innovation Fund,” Ms Macklin said.
“This accommodation will enable people with disability to live independently in their own home, with the added peace of mind that help is close at hand if needed.
“People with disability need access to a range of supported accommodation models which allow them and their carers to participate as valued members of their communities.
“The fully self-contained units will feature cutting-edge accessible design features and communal living areas, and will provide much-needed accommodation and support for people with disability in Werribee.”
Yarra Community Housing Limited has partnered with Mind Australia and worked closely with the future tenants, their families and carers to ensure the new home will cater to their individual needs.
“We believe people with disability should have the same opportunities as everyone else, including the ability to live independently,” Ms Macklin said.
The Supported Accommodation Innovation Fund helps to address a shortfall in supported accommodation and respite for people with disability.
The Gillard Government is supporting people with disability to ensure they receive the care and support they need and will introduce DisabilityCare Australia from 1 July this year.
“DisabilityCare Australia is the reform of a generation and has the potential to transform the lives of some of the most vulnerable Victorians,” Ms Macklin said.
“From 1 July this year DisabilityCare Australia will become a reality for around 5,000 people in the Barwon launch site in Victoria.
“As a result of the historic agreement between the Commonwealth and Victorian Government, the full roll out of DisabilityCare across Victorian will mean that more than 100,000 people will be supported by DisabilityCare Australia by July 2019.”