Campbell Newman has been caught out recycling current disability initiatives and Labor election commitments amid an ongoing LNP election spendathon.
Disability Services Minister Curtis Pitt said there is little new in Newman’s copy-cat promises which are already being funded by Labor’s record $1.7 billion disability services budget.
“The LNP is at it again, making announcements that copy initiatives that this Labor Government has already put in place,” Mr Pitt said.
“Today Campbell Newman added another $38.7m on top of more than $8.3 billion in un-costed election promises – and the meter is still running with a week to go.
“Labor has already announced an extra $9.5 million for more speech pathologists as part of its Students with Disabilities policy.
“The Attorney-General has confirmed that a re-elected Labor Government that will keep the independent Office of the Public Advocate.
“Currently, Labor invests almost $80 million a year in respite services across Queensland – and a further $62 million a year for centre-based day care.
“We’ve specifically committed $18.3 million over three years to create at least 60 more accommodation places for people with ageing parent carers.
“In addition to this, our $47.8 million Younger People in Residential Aged Care initiative is helping more young people to live young lives.
“So far this initiative has diverted or prevented more than 120 young people with disabilities from prematurely entering aged care in Queensland.
“In addition to this, the Premier has already announced a $1 million grant to Youngcare to establish a transition accommodation centre for young people in Mackay.
“The Bligh Labor Government is also delivering improved services for children with disabilities through Queensland.
“Our $4.8 million Autism Early Intervention initiative supports around 470 Queensland children in education centres throughout the State.”
Mr Pitt said Labor’s achievements were in stark contrast to the LNP’s shambolic record on disability services.
“The conservatives’ record on disabilities is one of chronic under-investment and inadequate services,” Mr Pitt said.
“Labor is tackling the consequences of the LNP’s shameful neglect with a record investment in disability, community care and community mental health services.
“Labor State Governments have increased funding in these areas by 495 per cent since the Liberals and Nationals were last in power.
“Campbell Newman can’t be trusted on disabilities, given the conservatives’ atrocious record.
“And Newman, Nicholls, Seeney and Springborg still can’t be trusted to tell us where the money is coming from.”
Recent Comments