Media Release by The Hon Larry Anthony MP

New Doomadgee Child And Family Support Service

The remote north-western indigenous community of Doomadgee will receive more than $500,000 for a new multifunctional child and family support service, Federal Minister for Community Services Larry Anthony announced today.

“Currently there are no community-based centres within Doomadgee that deliver child and family support services,” Mr Anthony said.

“This funding will give the local community access to a wide range of services including long day child care, vacation care, playgroup, parenting programs and crisis accommodation for mothers and babies.

“The new service will also provide a venue where community meetings can be held. It will offer Internet and teleconferencing facilities as well as.”

The new service, developed in consultation with the local community, is a joint Commonwealth and State initiative.

The Commonwealth will provide $365,400 in capital funding and $152,400 a year in recurrent funding.

“The Government recognises the difficulties that people living in remote communities face when they try to access appropriate family and community services,” Mr Anthony said.

“This new service will not only help children, but will establish employment and training opportunities for the local community.

“It is a fine example of how local communities can work together with Commonwealth and state governments to address local needs.

“The establishment of this new service demonstrates the Federal Government’s commitment to building stronger families and stronger communities.”