The Coalition Government is making it easier for people with disability to participate in nationally focused, disability-related conferences held in Australia.

Deputy Prime Minister and Member for New England, Barnaby Joyce, said grants of up to $10,000 are available to organisations to help people with disability participate in conferences being held from 1 July, 2018 to 30 June, 2019.

“People with disability in the New England Electorate can benefit from the grants, which will give people the opportunity to attend national events and conferences”, Mr Joyce said.

“The grants are designed to assist conference organisers to support people with disability, including accompanying family members or carers, with costs associated with attending a conference. 

“The grants can contribute to costs such as registration fees, travel and accommodation.  As well as travel needs, the grants can be used to develop accessible materials, employ Auslan interpreters, or offer assistive computer devices, software, aids and appliances. 

“I encourage local organisations to apply for the grant, to help people with disability better participate in national conferences."

The National Disability Conference Initiative promotes inclusive and accessible communities as part of the National Disability Strategy 2010-2020.

“The National Disability Conference Initiative can provide more people with disability in New England the opportunity to engage in national conversations that affect them, allowing them to participate as equal citizens in the New England community”, Mr Joyce said.

Applications close at 2PM (AEDT) on 20 March, 2018.

To apply for a grant or for more information on the National Disability Conference Initiative grant round, go to Australian Government Community Grants Hub at: communitygrants.gov.au

(ENDS)