The Australian Government is committing $40 million over two years to bolster self-advocacy and peer support programs, aiming to enhance the participation and empowerment of people with disabilities within the community.
The Peer Support and Capacity Building grant program, a one-off initiative, is designed to sustain the crucial services provided by community-based organizations supporting individuals with disabilities, their families, and carers.
Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), the Hon. Bill Shorten MP, emphasized the indispensable role of these services in fostering a welcoming environment and enabling people with disabilities to gain confidence and advocate for their needs.
“Peer support and self-advocacy organizations are essential for helping individuals with disabilities feel connected and learn from the experiences of others,” said Minister Shorten. “As we work together to strengthen the NDIS, it is crucial to enhance the services that empower people with disabilities to engage confidently and self-advocate for their rights.”
Minister Shorten highlighted the pivotal moment in the NDIS’s history, underscoring the importance of peer-led initiatives and support for decision-making. “The future of the NDIS lies in peer-led work, ensuring participants have the power and knowledge to navigate their NDIS funds effectively. These grants will provide vital support to organizations, enabling them to help people with disabilities engage more fully in the community and live independently.”
The grant program targets eligible, small, community-based, disability-led organizations with established peer support and self-advocacy programs. The forthcoming grants will complement the Information, Linkages, and Capacity Building (ILC) grants administered by the Department of Social Services (DSS).
In line with NDIS Review recommendations, the Government has introduced legislative changes to advance the reform process. These reforms aim to clarify the Scheme’s rules and delineate the responsibilities of states and territories in providing services for all Australians, including foundational supports for people with disabilities.
The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) is dedicated to ensuring that participants have a significant role in shaping the implementation of these reforms. Organizations will be able to apply for the grants through GrantConnect when the program is officially launched.
