Source: Office of the Minister for Families , Community Services and Indigenous Affairs, Hohn. Mal Brough MP

Media Release

MAL BROUGH MP
Minister for Families , Community Services and Indigenous Affairs
Minister Assisting the Prime Minister for Indigenous Affairs

Wednesday, 4th July 2006

STATES AND TERRITORIES URGED TO AGREE TO CSTDA

More than three months ago the Howard Government made an offer to help the States and Territories provide additional assistance to help people with disability and their families in the area of supported accommodation and respite care.

Since then only three jurisdictions have made a substantive response to the Government's offer to match their funding, dollar-for-dollar, to tackle unmet need in this area.

"The States and Territories have been complaining about these issues for years, yet when a genuine and uncapped offer was placed before them, they walked out," Mr Brough said.

"Last week, the Prime Minister announced a $1.8 billion Disability Assistance Package, which will be delivered directly by the Commonwealth and through non-government service providers.

"The Howard Government's package represents an increase of 56 per cent.on the $3.275 billion which is currently on offer through the Commonwealth State Territory Disability Agreement (CSTDA).

"In light of the lack of response from the States and Territories, the offer for matched funding is now withdrawn.

"The Commonwealth will continue discussions with those jurisdictions that have responded with a genuine proposal, namely Western Australian, the Australian Capital Territory and the Northern Territory.

"It is now up to the States and Territories to show that their posturing at the 3 April meeting was sincere and the only way they can do that is by providing a real financial commitment to people with disability and their families."

Mr Brough said he looked forward to the States and Territories finalising the agreement for the next CSTDA to ensure those with disability and their families receive the benefit of the $3.275 billion the Howard Government is offering.

Minister's media contact : Kevin Donnellan 0408 491 956