The State Government has slashed funding support for seniors and Victorians living with a disability in another State Budget blow to the vulnerable.
This week’s budget revealed a $12.4 million cut to the disability sector, completing a total $27.5 million reduction over the past two years.
Seniors programs and participation funding has been slashed $10.4 million since 2022-23.
Shadow Minister for Disability, Ageing and Carers, Tim Bull, said support for the most vulnerable in the community should be a non-negotiable.
“Disability services funding provides support to those with complex needs and those not covered by the National Disability Insurance Scheme. On the ground we are seeing an increase in the number that need this support, but rather than increase funding in line with requirements, we are seeing supports cut,” Mr Bull said.
“When the cost blowouts on major infrastructure projects results in a reduction of funding to our most vulnerable, you really have to question Premier Jacinta Allan’s priorities.
“It is similar with senior Victorians. It is well documented we have an ageing community, but the government has cut funding by 17.1 per cent to support programs over two years.
“That is a very significant reduction and Minister for Ageing, Ingrid Stitt, needs to come clean on which areas have been cut.
“This is a government that is full of platitudes when it comes to the seniors and disability sectors, but it does not back that commentary up.
“Labor can’t manage money and our most vulnerable are paying the price.”
