Applications are now open for the Newman Government’s $15 million Elderly Parent Carers Innovation Trial.
Member for Burnett, Stephen Bennett today announced that local organisations in Bundaberg and the Burnett were now able to apply for capital grants under the new trial which would roll out over the next three years.
“This trial is about developing innovative strategies that will provide sustainable living options for adults with disabilities when they can no longer be cared for by their elderly parents,” Mr Bennett.
“Capital grants up to $1 million and small grants up to $50,000 are available for residential construction, modification or acquisition projects.”
The Elderly Parent Carer Innovation Trial was announced as part of the Queensland 2012-13 State Budget and Mr Bennett said the trial was the focus of a Ministerial roundtable held on 30 November last year.
“Twenty-two participants representing areas including disability services, finance, housing and aged care, as well as carers, attended the roundtable and provided their views on how the trial can best assist people with a disability and their elderly parent carers,” he said.
“An additional 22 individuals and organisations also commented on the trial discussion paper via the department’s website.”
The capital projects must target adults with a disability 30 years and over, who are being cared for by their parents who are 65 years and over, or Indigenous parents who are 50 years of age and over.
Families can approach disability service providers to make an application on their behalf.
The closing date for submissions is 4.00pm Monday 15 April 2013.
For more information on the Elderly Parent Carer Innovation Trial visit www.communities.qld.gov.au/disability/key-projects/elderly-parent-carer-innovation-trial
For information about disabilities and available supports and services, visit www.qld.gov.au/disability