Wadalba, on the Central Coast, is to be the site of a special residential development which will help people with intellectual disabilities to live more independently.
NSW Minister for Disability Services, Kristina Keneally, today announced that accommodation for 20 younger people with disabilities will be built on a half hectare site at Fig Close, Wadalba.
"This site will cater for four five-bedroom homes that will provide for the needs of 20 people with disabilities who have the potential to live independently through community based home accommodation," Ms Keneally said.
"This is in addition to a purpose-built 100 bed aged care service specifically for people with disabilities, announced in February for Hamlyn Terrace, which will include four new respite beds that provide carers with a much-needed break."
David Harris, Member for Wyong, said that the development of the specialist aged care village and community based home accommodation was in line with Stronger Together, the Government’s 10-year, $1.3 billion plan to improve disability services.
"Under Stronger Together the Iemma Government committed to redeveloping or closing large residential centres, and creating new liveable communities with appropriate accommodation," Mr Harris said.
"The great thing about the two new centres is that they will be within two kilometres of each other, which means that residents who currently live in the old Peat Island facility will be able to maintain existing long term friendships."
Ms Keneally said every resident in the new homes would be provided with supported accommodation services in consultation with them and their family or guardian, and would be provided the type of accommodation and support appropriate to their individual needs.
"I welcome the input of families and friends in planning for the new services. Families can visit the site at their leisure or the Department of Ageing Disability and Home Care will organise site visits," Ms Keneally said.
Ms Keneally said it was expected that the new homes in Wadalba would be completed and ready for occupation in 2010.