NSW — The
Liberal/Nationals today said the Premier’s offer of
$2 million for people with disabilities would fail to
adequately support people who have been waiting years for
aids and appliances.
John Ryan the Shadow Minister for
Disability Services said the one off payment was woefully
inadequate and many people in desperate need would
continue to wait.
“It’s a appalling for
this pittance to be offered by a Premier who says he has
a passion for helping people with disabilities,” Mr
Ryan said.
Mr Ryan said the Department of
Health, which administers the program, didn’t have
an accurate waiting list and many people who applied for
support years ago are still waiting.
“A study from the Department
of Health in 1997 admitted that the PADP scheme was under
funded by 71% and peak groups like the Physical
Disability Council have been campaigning for a $13
million recurrent increase in the budget,” Mr Ryan
said.
Mr Ryan explained the Department of
Ageing Disability and Home Care currently contributes $2
million for children with a disability on the PADP
program.
“A one off payment of $2
million is simply not enough to help the growing number
of people of all ages who need support,” Mr Ryan
said.
The PADP scheme is used by people
of all ages who need aids and appliances that allow them
to live independent lives. The scheme often allows people
to buy wheelchairs, incontinence aids, mobility aids and
other equipment that can be used around the
house.
