The Australian Government is committed to ensuring people with disabilities, and their families and carers, are recognised and encouraged to participate in the community. - As part of an ongoing commitment to the rights of people with disability, the Australian Government is developing a National Disability Strategy.
To ensure the Strategy is practical and effective, a discussion paper has been developed to facilitate public discussion.
As part of the Social Inclusion Agenda, the Australian Government is developing a National Mental Health and Disability Employment Strategy.
The Strategy will be developed in close consultation with consumers, peak bodies, employers, state and territory governments and experts.
On 15 May 2008, the Minister for Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs (FaHCSIA), the Hon Jenny Macklin MP, announced that Dr Jeff Harmer, the Secretary of her Department, would lead a comprehensive review of the pension system as part of the Australian Government's broader review of Australia's Future Tax System.
The Extra Support for Children with a Disability Program - Outside School Hours Care funds organisations to provide outside school hours and vacation care for children with disability aged 12 to 18 years.
From 20 March 2008, people who receive Disability Support Pension will benefit from increased and more regular financial support. Utilities Allowance has been extended to all Disability Support Pension recipients regardless of age. Utilities Allowance has been increased to $500 a year for singles or couples combined and will be paid in $125 quarterly payments.
The Australian Government will establish six autism specific child care centres around Australia to complement the Helping Children with Autism package.
On 23 April 2008 the Parliamentary Secretary for Disabilities and Children's Services, the Hon Bill Shorten MP, announced the establishment of the Disability Investment Group to explore innovative funding ideas for the private sector that will help people with disability and their families to access greater support and plan for the future.
2008—09 National Disability Conference Funding Program - Applications for funding under the 2008—09 National Disability Conference Funding Program are now closed. Reference information is available on the National Disability Conference Funding Program page.
Source: FaHCSIA | Disabilities | Disabilities