BBRF-funded breather for Goondiwindi Carers

February 4, 2022

People living with a disability in Goondiwindi and their carers can breathe easier following the completion of a new respite accommodation facility.

The $1.35 million project received funding under the Australian Government’s Building Better Regions Fund and delivered three self-contained three-bedroom units designed to meet the daily needs of people living with a disability.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Barnaby Joyce said the new facility was a big win for the entire community.

“The Government is proud to be supporting Care Goondiwindi Ltd – a not-for-profit community organisation that specialises in supporting people with a disability in rural areas – in its fabulous, vital work,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.

“The social benefits from this project are significant, with increased capacity for the local community to provide suitable respite care support and services to people with disability care needs.

“This will in turn allow residents to remain in the local area, stay connected to their community networks and reduce social isolation.”

Federal Member for Maranoa David Littleproud said the project was a fantastic example of the Australia Government’s investment in critical regional and community infrastructure in action.

“Today, Goondiwindi has benefitted directly from the Australian Government’s commitment to drive economic growth and build stronger regional communities into the future,” Mr Littleproud said.

“This project was also an investment in much-needed local jobs, with construction providing work for local trades, contractors and suppliers while delivering flow-on benefits to the local economy.

“This fantastic facility will also increase employment opportunities within the local disability-care workforce, further supporting jobs while backing people living with disability and their families.”

CEO of Care Goondiwindi Tracy MacDonald said it is exciting for her organisation to be involved in such an important project.

“This is a project that provides valuable respite for vulnerable people with a disability and their families,” Mrs MacDonald said.

“To have the opportunity to construct a bespoke facility which is specifically designed to meet a diverse range of needs which results in the customised support of many people is something that the organisation is very proud of.”

Board Chair of Care Goondiwindi Joel Richters said the facility is an example of how rural communities can provide more care locally to those people living with a disability.

“It will also provide families and carers with much-needed respite,” Mr Richters said.

“The flow-on effect of this project will leave a lasting legacy and significant employment boost for the disability sector in South Western Queensland.”

The Australian Government committed $589,523 to the $1.35 million project, with further funding from Care Goondiwindi Ltd, Hand Heart Pocket – Freemasons Queensland and the Queensland Government’s Community Gambling Benefit Fund.