Disability and the Budget: Far from a Podium Finish
09/06/2011
SA Treasurer Jack Snelling’s statement that the disability sector is “the big winner” in this year’s budget is far from true, say Kelly Vincent MLC.
People with a disability have been offered $37.5 million for services over four years and $10.8 million for equipment over four years.
”The Government is attempting to play catch-up with this budget, but it is far from getting ahead,” said Ms Vincent. “There is no way this money will be enough to clear the unmet needs list. It will not be enough to provide the essential accommodation, in-home support, respite and other services people are waiting for.”
“Mr Snelling’s ‘big winner’ statement is more an indication of the Government’s shallow understanding of the disability crisis than a signal of an actual change in people’s lives.”
Ms Vincent is further concerned that only $3.6 million of the $37.5 million will be spent in this first year.
“Effectively that money is a forward spend. It is not there to help the people who desperately need help now,” she said
However, the Government has made some positive steps toward recognising people with a disability by committing money to accessible public transport, a disability arts program and a medical heating and cooling concession.
“The commitment to a medical cooling and heating concession is the only one of my budget wishes the Government has granted,” said Ms Vincent. “I commend them on this measure which will ease the financial pressure on thousands of South Australians.”
Clients at the Strathmont Centre have also been catered for in the budget, with funding allocated to move 32 more people into the community.
“It is great to see movement on the Strathmont issue, but very disappointing that not all of the current clients have been taken into consideration,” said Ms Vincent.
“This budget is another token gesture for people with a disability, but it gives us hope that the Government is beginning to listen.”
