No. 34

$2 MILLION TO SUPPORT THERAPY ACT REFURBISHMENT

The Stanhope Government will invest $2 million from its 2006-07 Budget to support a program of refurbishment at the Therapy ACT site at Holder.  

Minister for Disability and Community Services Katy Gallagher said the Government support would enable Therapy ACT to develop a single service approach and to upgrade its facilities and accommodation in both the north and south side of Canberra.

“A single service provides one point of access for families, more integrated and efficient delivery of services and an improved physical environment that acknowledges and values clients,” Ms Gallagher said. 

“Clients can benefit from the experience of a range of specialists under one roof, including psychologists, social workers, occupational therapists, physiotherapists and speech pathologists.

“In 2005-06, $1.5 million was spent on refitting Swanson Plaza, Belconnen to provide a Northside service hub for Therapy ACT.  This allowed for the consolidation of several locations into a single hub in Belconnen for clients from the north of Canberra.

“The Stanhope Government committed funding of $2 million in 2006-07 Budget to continue the upgrade of the infrastructure and refurbishment of the building layout.   

“These facilities will enable a coordinated therapy and family support service to be provided for clients with delays in development and developmental disabilities in the Southside of Canberra.” 

Ms Gallagher said Therapy ACT commenced operation in July 2003 and provides multi-disciplinary therapy and support services for people aged from birth to 65 years with disabilities and delays in their development.  Therapy ACT provided services to about 1,800 clients.

“Therapy ACT is committed to providing a safe workplace for staff and also a safe environment for clients.  The capital works to be undertaken will ensure an appropriate venue for members of the community to access therapy services,” she said.