Tasmanian Shadow Minister for Disability, Jo Siejka says $2 million in funding to restore vital disability services is part of a wider Labor package to support Tasmanians living with a disability.
“Labor knows a strong, inclusive and positive future for Tasmania depends on achieving equitable outcomes for people living with disability,” Ms Siejka said.
“There are approximately 90,000 Tasmanians living with a disability who rely on the Tasmanian State Government to provide the care and services they require, services that the Liberals have cut and a majority Labor Government will fund.”
Ms Siejka said that supporting Tasmanians living with disability was crucial and that Labor’s package would help to deliver better outcomes across education, transport, housing and more broadly.
“A Labor Government will establish an independent Community Services Commissioner with the powers to investigate matters which relate to disability service provision.”
She said Labor would also reinstate a $1000 taxi subsidy, increasing it from its current level to help Tasmanians living with a disability to access jobs, education, training and appointments.
“A majority Labor Government would look towards implementing accessible, transparent mechanisms which can be used by people living with disabilities and mental illnesses within our community to recognise assistance animals and the benefits they provide and we will give $2 million in funding to Guide Dogs Tasmania to set up a world class breeding and training program in multiple regions across Tasmania.”
“And Labor will support accessible tourism, with a plan to work in Government to ensure tourism products and services, infrastructure, public spaces, accommodation and transport modes are accessible for all, including people with disability.
“This commitment builds on the $6 million Labor has committed to investing in supported disability accommodation to help ensure people living with disability can get access to housing,” she said.
