The Minister for Disability Reform, Jenny Macklin has announced funding of $4.9 million over three years to deliver an online video-based initiative to improve access to qualified allied health and education services for families and children with disability in regional and remote communities.

 

The Remote Hearing and Vision Services for Children Initiative will deliver services via the National Broadband Network (NBN) to about 125 additional children in regional and remote Australia, building on the 100 children already supported by the Government.

 

Ms Macklin said the NBN was breaking new ground in service delivery for young children with disability.

 

“The NBN gives children with disability and their families the opportunity to get the best possible start to life, regardless of where they live,” Ms Macklin said.

 

“If there is no specialist close to where they live, a child with disability can access ‘real time’ support and advice through these new online services. For example, a child will be able to meet with a speech pathologist in Brisbane and have a therapy session online through this new video conferencing service.

 

“This will make a real difference in the lives of children with disability and help reduce the stress and pressures on families trying to access specialist services that are only available in large towns and cities.”

 

Ms Macklin and Senator McLucas announced there will be a competitive tender process to deliver the new services shortly.