New resources to assist Queensland transition to the NDIS

Funding of $2.8 million will be provided to assist the Queensland disability sector prepare for Information, Linkages and Capacity Building (ILC) grant funding under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) in 2019-20.

The NDIS ILC program provides grants to community groups and organisations to develop programs that promote accessibility and foster greater community inclusion for people with disability, their families and carers.

The funding will educate Queenslanders about the opportunities available through the ILC program and the process involved in applying to allow them time to prepare.

Assistant Minister for Social Services, Housing and Disability Services, Sarah Henderson said the $2.8 million investment was an important contribution towards helping Queensland organisations prepare for opportunities under the Federally-funded NDIS ILC program.

“I am pleased to announce funding of $2.8 million will be provided to Community Services Industry Alliance (CSIA) who have partnered with National Disability Services (NDS) Queensland to assist local organisations, including people with disability, to get ready for ILC opportunities in 2019-20 and beyond,” Ms Henderson said.

“ILC grants are a key pillar of the NDIS. Around the country, successful ILC grants have included initiatives targeting activities that enable people with disability to participate in mainstream and community life. 

The approach for the $2.8 million was identified in conjunction with the Queensland Government as part of its transition funding.

“The Morrison Government acknowledges each state and territory has its own needs and that’s why a partnership approach to preparing the community is so critical,” Ms Henderson said.

“As part of the grant, CSIA and NDS are expected to develop resources as well as deliver information sessions and workshops throughout the state, including targeting capacity building for Indigenous and regional and remote providers.

“By providing the resources and know-how to prepare for the NDIS ILC program, we hope to see exciting new culturally-appropriate ideas which will ultimately benefit people with disability and their families.

“At Full Scheme, an estimated 91,000 Queenslanders will receive life-changing supports from the NDIS. This investment is designed to give local organisations a head-start on ensuring communities are more inclusive and supportive of people with disability.”

Since July 2017, the NDIA has invested almost $86 million (GST ex.) in ILC, supporting 222 grants across Australia.