The Iemma Government will deliver $2.6 million to improve housing for young people with a disability.
NSW Minister for Disability Services said that the funding was part of the Government’s $218 million Leaving Care Program, funded through its Stronger Together 10-year plan for disability services.
“This program will bring together three Government departments and ensure that young people with a disability are getting access to the services they need,” Ms Keneally said.
Under the program, the Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care (DADHC) is partnering with the Department of Housing and the Department of Community Services to support 450 young people with a disability expected to leave care over a five-year period.
Ms Keneally said that this innovative program is helping young people aged 18 and over with a disability to transition from the care of the Minister for Community Services into their own home.
“The major goal is to improve outcomes for these young people, including reducing the incidence of them ending up homeless or in the criminal justice system,” Ms Keneally said.
“The program provides transition planning, case management and access to flexible support linked to accommodation that best meets young people’s needs.”
The Leaving Care Program provides a range of accommodation options including:
· Continuing current foster or alternative family placements;
· Drop-in supported housing, including private rental and social housing;
· Group home accommodation; and
· Other options for people with complex needs.
Ms Keneally said that this $2.6 million investment will allow the Department of Housing to undertake modifications to more than 50 rental properties.
“This will ensure that up to 90 young people accessing the Leaving Care Program can obtain social housing that is suitable for their individual needs,” Ms Keneally said.
Ms Keneally said that all three departments were working closely to ensure the transitions were smooth and had the best outcomes for the young people.
“We are taking a whole of government approach aimed at ensuring the future well-being of these vulnerable young people.
“Through this co-ordinated, cross-government approach to providing ongoing support, they will have the opportunity to enjoy a better quality of life as part of their local community.”