Disability funding changes labelled 'a win for every dodgy provider'
Well-respected disability advocacy organisations across the country have not had their funding renewed, in a move they say will leave vulnerable people to manage crises alone.
The Australian government has announced changes to how it funds disability advocacy organisations, which has been criticised by several respected groups. The Department of Health is replacing the decades-old program that funds these organisations with a new one, causing disruption for those who rely on the services. Villamanta Disability Rights Legal Service in regional Victoria is among those affected, losing 30% of its funding and facing job losses and a reduction in support for people with disabilities.
The CEO of Villamanta, Annie Nash, said the decision would leave vulnerable people with disabilities to manage crises alone. She argued that the funding cuts would disproportionately impact organisations that help people in crisis, such as those involved in eviction, family violence, or unlawful debt. The new funding model, in line with recommendations from the disability royal commission, will see up to $184 million available over six financial years, providing opportunities for both existing and new organisations to bid for grants.
However, critics argue that the changes are out of touch with the urgent needs of people with disabilities, who now face an unprecedented demand for advocacy services due to the government's cuts to the NDIS.
Written by urgent.news from ABC News AU's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
