BREAKING DOWN BARRIERS FOR YOUNG PEOPLE WITH DISABILITY

A re-elected Andrews Labor Government will support Extended Families Australia to continue connecting young people with disability and their families with their community.

We’ll provide a $50,000 grant, helping Extended Families’ volunteers to support children and young people with disability and their families with companionship, friendship and practical assistance in their day-to-day lives.

The “foster” grandparents, aunties, uncles, brothers, sisters and mentors of Extended Families – and their flexible support options – help people with disabilities and their families fully participate in all areas of life and their community. 

The work of Extended Families, with its central office in Coburg, is breaking down barriers, changing social attitudes and creating positive opportunities for both the people they support and their volunteers.

Funding from the Labor Government will make sure they are well-equipped to continue to help local families and members of our community – ensuring every Victorian gets the support they need when they need it.

It builds on the massive investments in community support already delivered by the Labor Government, ensuring neighbourhoods have accessible wellbeing and support services close to home.

The Labor Government recently launched Inclusive Victoria: State Disability Plan 2022-2026, driving change towards an inclusive, accessible and fairer community for all Victorians.

Labor also established Australia’s first Disability Liaison Officer Program to help people with disability access health services – including COVID-19 vaccinations – in ways that best suit them.

In sharp contrast, when it comes to delivering the vital support that people in our community rely on, Matthew Guy’s Liberals can’t be trusted. Their policy of cuts and closures would leave locals behind.

Only Labor will back the community organisations that keep our community strong – because only Labor will do what matters.

Quotes attributable to Labor Member for Essendon Danny Pearson

“Extended Families give everything they have to support young people with disability and their families fully participate in all areas of their lives and community.”

“It’s why we’re going to make sure they have what they need to keep supporting local residents.”

Quotes attributable to Labor Candidate for Pascoe Vale Anthony Cianflone

“This investment will see Extended Families getting the support they need to help children and young people with disability and their families with companionship, friendship and practical assistance.”

“We’re proud to support hard working staff and volunteers who help make Victoria a more inclusive and accessible place for all.”