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$2.7m for disability accommodation in Bairnsdale

A total of $2.7 million in State and Federal Government funding has been allocated to Noweyung Services to provide shared and independent living arrangements for seven individuals with severe or profound disability.

Chief executive officer, Ernie Metcalf, today joined with State Member for Gippsland East, Tim Bull, to look over plans and the prospective site of the development at the rear of the Noweyung Centre in Gould Street.

“Noweyung and Housing Choices Australia wish to thank the Commonwealth and State Governments for their support. The new accommodation will provide real opportunities to close the gap on unmet need across East Gippsland,” Mr Metcalf said.

“The concept design and proposed support structure allows a flexible approach to support individual resident's needs and community inclusion. The new accommodation will allow a mix of residents with diverse needs who are looking for an option between independent living and supported accommodation.

“The 'Supporting Pathways for Disability Accommodation in Bairnsdale' project delivers on this innovative concept,” said Mr Metcalf

Member for Gippsland East, Tim Bull, said there was an increasing need for independent living and supported accommodation options locally and this will provide a big step in catering for this requirement.

“It really is exciting news and will make a big difference to a number of families in the region over a long period of time.

“Members of the community with a mental illness and disability; young people at risk of going into a nursing home and young people with autism who display challenging behaviours are among those who will benefit from this project.

“The funding will assist Noweyung to continue its fantastic work and implement a range of innovative and flexible accommodation options to meet the diverse and growing needs of people with a disability,” Mr Bull said.

Federal Member for Gippsland, Darren Chester said there was a critical need in regional communities to provide improved accommodation and support services for people with disability and their families.

“Noweyung Services has a proud history of supporting people with disability in the East Gippsland for almost 60 years and I’m pleased that both the State and Federal Government are supporting such a worthwhile project.

“I know the funding will be welcomed by the organisation as well as prospective residents and their families and I look forward to continuing to support the work of Noweyung in the future.”

The site of the development at 84 Gould Street, Bairnsdale is close to public transport, medical facilities, the local hospital and other community services.