Three Sunshine Coast mates with complex disabilities are living in their new home in Maroochydore, following government funding to provide their support services.
Disability Services Minister Tracy Davis who officially opened the new home in Pippi Court, said it was wonderful to see happy residents and their families living the life they choose.
“By revitalising frontline disability services, our government has given Kieran, Graeme, and Peter the ability to choose where they wanted to live, and who would deliver their supports,” Ms Davis said.
“Only two and half years ago this sort of choice and control would have been unheard of, but the Newman Government has been working hard so that people with a disability can have a brighter future.
“However, there is still more to do as we prepare Queenslanders for the transition to the National Disability Insurance Scheme, which will begin rolling out in our state from July 2016.”
Member for Maroochydore Fiona Simpson said the new home was a great example of the community coming together with government.
“I am so pleased to see this dream become a reality, following the hard work and dedication of the families and the Maroochydore community,” Ms Simpson said.
“The Holy Spirit Sisters funded the build of home, and on behalf of the State Government, Centacare will provide supports to the residents so they can live independently in the community.
“This purpose-built four bedroom home will accommodate the three resident’s support needs, as well as having a room for a carer to stay in.”
Father of one of the residents, Bevan Gallagher, said he was excited for his son to be in his own home for the very first time, and welcomed the government’s support.
“As parents, you want your son or daughter to be able to live the life they choose, and for Bevan it is great that he can continuing living close to his family and other disability supports, but that he could move out with his friends,” Mr Gallagher said.
“Ensuring connections to the community is important to the families, and we have included local traditional Indigenous elements from the Gubbi Gubbi people in both the home decorations and as part of the official opening.”
The three residents and their carer moved in to the home in June 2014.
