Important Information: DSQ to lose Advocacy Funding

The Queensland Government is changing the funding model for Advocacy in Queensland, and this means that Down Syndrome Queensland (DSQ), from 1 January 2022, will no longer receive funding to support the over 2,500 people with Down syndrome across Queensland in individual advocacy activities.

Instead, from 1 January 2022, only cross—disability advocacy organisations will be funded to provide individual advocacy activities in Queensland.

DSQ is concerned that these organisations will not have the same depth of understanding of the issues which affect people with Down syndrome, nor the connections to support them in the same way. People with intellectual impairments are one of the most marginalised groups in society and sufficient support from organisations who understand their specific needs is the only way to address this.

In the past 12 months, DSQ has provided over 600 hours of individual advocacy to people with Down syndrome and their support networks on areas such as NDIS access, reviews and system changes, education access and inclusion, health system access and prenatal testing. DSQ also made representations and submissions to Government, Enquiries and the NDIA on Systemic Advocacy matters including NDIS structure and access, Health equality, Prenatal testing, Inclusive Education and Employment.

As things currently stand, DSQ will no longer receive funding from the Qld Government to perform these activities from 1 January 2022.

We are committed to continue to support people with Down syndrome and their support networks in advocacy issues, but we will be increasingly reliant on donations and fundraising to continue this support unless the State Government takes steps to fill the void.

We require your support to assist us in raising funds and calling for Government action on an appropriate Advocacy funding model.

To share your advocacy story with us, or find out  more, please contact Michael at the office on 3356 6655 or at engagement@downsyndromeqld.org.au

Overview

Down Syndrome Queensland works for a better quality of life for people with Down syndrome by supporting and strengthening families and promoting positive and realistic images of people with Down syndrome.  

It’s dynamic & expert team of staff provides a range of services and supports throughout Queensland. The team is supported by a number of wonderful volunteers including the Board with services funded through grants, sponsorships, donations and fundraising. Down Syndrome Queensland is a registered charity established by parents in 1976.

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