Mr Howard, will there be any changes to the way disability services are managed?

Question

Currently the many agencies aren't reaching most families' need by a long shot. Too much $$ wasted in administration costs. One blanket service is needed, with an information package for all carers about how/where they can get help and support and funds for respite care be paid direct to families. We need a real committment by Government (Feds and State together) to provide/build actual facilities for housing, respite and education facilities. Carers need real and ongoing support not just bandaid -type fixes, when our lives are torn apart and it's far too late to come back from, (DHS method currently)
We don't have holidays or even manage to get a haircut very often, it is very insulting to read about pay rises and super payouts to politicians all the time when I have no super for my future and I cannot contribute to it through no fault of my own. I will be one of many carers hopeful of a pension if they exist in 20 yrs. We need support so we can work too, it's not too much to ask .

Answer 1

I am the mother of an intellectually disabled daughter and I agree with you absolutely - totally!!!

I have had a huge battle with DHS over the past 5 or so years just to get what I needed for her. And even then it wasn't anything like what we wanted but it was down to "take it or leave it" so it was the only choice we had. I love my daughter with all my heart and I am absolutely destroyed to see their blatant disregard and disrespect for her needs and for my and her family's love for her.

Every time I have approached politicians it is the same story. Federal pollies say it's the State's problem and the State pollies say it is the Federal. I am sick of it!

Answer 2

Yes Im a community visitor in Victoria and I agree in total with you I know there is a carers political group being formed to try to gain seats in the Senate next election this year good luck ~~

Answer 3

this is a tough one... it will be all down to the big state v commonwealth debate.
in the end it will come down to whether your state decides to implement policies that help the fine carers that help disabled people live a normal and happy life...
if you really want action, you could try petitioning to your local MP of both state and federal parliament but that's about all you can really do...

that is unless you run as a candidate...