Fifteen local businesses and organisations were announced today as the successful recipients of the 2019 Disability Inclusion Grants.

This year’s grant recipients will share in $100,000 to deliver activities and events that enable Canberrans with disability to actively participate in the community.

The Disability Inclusion Grants are part of the ACT Government’s commitment to removing barriers for people with disability and make Canberra more accessible and inclusive.

Minister for Disability, Suzanne Orr MLA, thanked those who submitted applications for the Disability Inclusion Grants.

“I would like to thank all of the organisations that submitted applications and congratulate the successful recipients of this funding round.

“Every Canberran has the right to live a happy and fulfilling life. I look forward to seeing these projects come to fruition and the various activities and events that will be delivered to support people with disability in the community,” said Minister Orr.

Taryn Langdon from the Tuggeranong Community Council (SouthFest sub-committee) said the grant will help make their SouthFest event more accessible, particularly for those with sensory issues.

“There is something for everyone at SouthFest and we are delighted that with the support of a Disability Inclusion Grant we can focus on reducing some of the barriers that make it difficult for some people and families to attend community festivals like ours.”

 “This year, we are making it easier for people with sensory issues to participate in SouthFest. This includes things like developing social stories, providing chill out spaces and providing more information about the different activities and entertainment so families can plan ahead.”

“We genuinely hope that other event organisers follow our lead and this grant has a broader impact on events of all kinds in the future.“ Taryn said.

The 2019 successful recipients and their projects are:

• Community Radio 2XX will undertake on site accessibility improvements to enable people with disability to participate in broadcasting opportunities
• Duntroon Campbell Scouts will add a ramp to make the Scout hall accessible
• Mixtape Chorus, Toastmasters and Belconnen Dog Club will conduct disability awareness training
• BasketballACT and Everyday Champions will develop and implement disability education and training workshops and resources
• ACT Woodcraft Guild, The Embroiderers Guild ACT and Legal Aid will provide hearing loops and hearing amplifiers to improve inclusion for participants and clients
• Tuggeranong Community Council will make Southfest event more accessible
• Tuggeranong Community Arts will host an Expressive Design for Disability exhibition
• Belconnen Arts Centre are developing an audio-visual guide to the centre
• Dickson Aquatic Centre will enhance access through purchasing pool steps
• Pedal Power will obtain a tandem bike for their Fitability fleet

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