Senator Anne Ruston, Minister for Families and Social Services announced today over $2 million in federal funding to help IDEAS operate over the coming twelve months.
IDEAS are the go-to experts for disability information. They connect people with the information they need through a dedicated national call centre and website for all people with disability and the public with advice on disability supports and services.
“IDEAS provide information on everything from accommodation, employment, transport, and respite care, to sport, support groups, and independent living,” Minister Ruston said
IDEAS knows and listens every day to inquiries by people with disability. These inquiries need solid, accurate, relevant and timely answers so that people can get on with their own good lives, wherever that is all over Australia."
‘I’m so happy to find someone who knows the system.’
‘They simply answer the phone and help.’
‘They open up the world to me.’
Executive Officer, Diana Palmer said “We welcome the investment by the minister as a good start in this government’s commitment to provide individual choice and control for people with disability and to create opportunity so they can achieve their goals. We are happy to work alongside the government in developing a sustainable business model.”
Our own staff can be proud today that their work is recognised for the difference it makes to the social and economic participation of people with disability in the community. 80% of us live with or has lived experience of disability. Coupled with rigorous training and great data, people trust us with their burning issues, problems and questions.
For more than 35 years we have impacted more than 7 million lives with valuable services which make it easier for people with disabilities to make informed and independent decisions about getting on with everyday life, just like everyone else.
