Local disability advocacy services have been encouraged to apply for a new funding scheme after the NSW Government’s launch of the Disability Advocacy Futures Program.
Under the new program, more than $13 million will be allocated to organisations across individual, systemic and representative advocacy types.
Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast, Adam Crouch, said local organisations should look into the new program.
“There is always more the Government can do and that’s why I’m encouraging local organisations to submit an application through this $13 million funding program,” Crouch said.
“Central Coast based disability advocacy services already receive significant funding from the NSW Government, but I want to ensure that local groups continue to receive their fair share.”
Minister for Families, Communities and Disability Services, Alister Henskens, said the program fulfils the intent of NSW Ageing and Disability Commissioner Robert Fitzgerald’s report into the sector.
“Advocacy empowers people to overcome barriers that affect their ability to participate in our community,” Henskens said.
“The Commissioner’s report provided a blueprint for a contemporary and sustainable advocacy system and now organisations have the opportunity to be a part of this exciting new chapter.
“I look forward to seeing the innovation, collaboration and new ways of delivering support that this commissioning process will deliver.”
It is expected the program will support the more than 1.4 million people with disability in NSW, not just those accessing services and supports under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).
For more information about the program, and to apply, visit the NSW Government’s eTendering website.
Maisy Rae