Extra care at home for Territorians
Extra joint funding has been announced for Home and Community Care services in the Northern Territory.
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Previous MinistersMs Marion Scrymgour MLA
NT Minister for Family and Community Services
| 27 October 2004 | JB213/04 |
Extra care at home for Territorians
Older Territorians and people with disabilities will benefit from extra support services to help them remain independent at home and in their communities.
The Federal Minister for Ageing, Julie Bishop, and the Northern Territory Minister for Family and Community Services, Marion Scrymgour, today announced extra joint funding of $885,900 for Home and Community Care services in the Northern Territory.
Ms Bishop said Home and Community Care was a key element of the Australian Government's vision for a world class aged care sector that provided high quality, affordable and accessible services to meet the individual needs and choices of older Australians.
"Older Territorians are increasingly choosing to remain at home and in their local community as they age," Ms Bishop said.
"By funding Home and Community Care services, including culturally appropriate respite, advocacy, Meals on Wheels and domestic assistance, we are helping to fulfil that choice and improve people’s independence and quality of life.
"In the Territory, over half of the 86 current Home and Community Care projects operate in remote locations. More than 20 communities receive funding to improve, expand and develop new services in areas such as Port Keats, Ramingining, and in Central Australia."
Ms Scrymgour said total funding available for Home and Community Care services in the Northern Territory would be $7.97 million in 2004-05.
"The NT Government is actively seeking to fill gaps in service provision for older Territorians and people with disabilities," Ms Scrymgour said.
"New initiatives this year include a service providing advocacy for the elderly and the establishment of a culturally appropriate respite service in Yirrkala."
Home and Community Care is jointly funded by the Australian, State and Territory governments and is managed by the States and Territories. The Australian Government provides around 60 per cent of the funding.
Media contacts:
Rachael Thompson (Ms Bishop) 02 6277 7280 or 0417 265 289
Maria Billias (Ms Scrymgour) 08 8901 4108