Autism centres get $16m boost from Abbott government
Six autism-specific child care centres around the country to benefit ahead of transition to NDIS.
The Abbott government has announced more than $16 million for six autism-specific child care centres around the country, saying it will help the businesses adapt for a “successful and smooth transition” to the National Disability and Insurance Scheme.
Speaking in Tasmania to launch the annual Pollie Pedal ride, Tony Abbott said he was “very pleased” to announce the funding for the state’s centre in Burnie.
“The Burnie Autism Early Learning and Care Centre is something which local people cherish and I was very pleased to be able to announce with (Tasmanian Liberal MP) Brett Whiteley last night that funding is secure for this centre for the next three-and-a-half years,” the Prime Minister said.
Centres in Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide, Perth and Brisbane will also receive over $16m in 2015-18, and all centres will have their funding extended until the end of this year.
A joint statement released by the Prime Minister and Assistant Minister for Social Services Mitch Fifield said the money would deliver financial certainty to the families of children with autism.
“These new funding agreements will provide certainty for these centres as we move to the National Disability Insurance Scheme, and will allow them to continue their vital work helping children with autism,” the statement says.
“Early intervention is the key to helping children with disability develop their capacity for participation at school and other settings, which in turn is crucial to helping them attain their goals now and later in their life.
“Nationally, hundreds of children and their families will benefit, including more than 40 children in Tasmania. These six centres, which were established in 2009, have a strong track record when it comes to delivering early intervention services for children with autism and their families.”
The Autism Specific Early Learning and Care Centres provide programs and support for children aged zero to six years with autism spectrum disorders.
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