The Albanese Labor Government has announced that 60 organisations will share in a $50 million to boost community participation opportunities for people with disability, their families, and carers.

The funding, delivered under the Social and Community Participation Grant Opportunity 2023-24, will be allocated to various disability organisations in two-year funding arrangements.

The organisations were eligible to receive grants ranging from $200,000 to $2 million.

Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), Bill Shorten, emphasised the importance of increasing the capability of communities to boost participation in arts, culture, sport, and recreation for people with disability.

“This $50 million investment is a key step in the Government’s journey to ensure every Australian community offers disability-inclusive and readily accessible supports and services,” said Minister Shorten.

“We will work hand-in-hand with the organisations to strengthen community ties and enrich the lives of people with disability through targeted and responsive supports.”

“Tackling barriers to participation underscores the Government’s mission for every person with disability, as well as their families and carers, to thrive and reach their potential,” Minister Shorten said.

Initiatives funded under this grant opportunity will be rolled out from May 2024 to June 2026 as part of the Government’s Information, Linkages and Capacity Building (ILC) program.

The ILC program works to foster improved connections between people with disability and their local communities, including those not accessing the NDIS.

Minister for Social Services, Amanda Rishworth, said that improving life outcomes for all people with disability and strengthening supports outside the NDIS is a primary goal of Australia’s Disability Strategy 2021-2031.

“All people with disability must have access to high-quality supports and services that will build their connections, skills, and confidence” said Minister Rishworth.

“Australia’s Disability Strategy outlines a range of key areas where the Government must take action, including to boost disability employment and ensure every person with disability feels safe and respected.

Successful applicants underwent an open and competitive selection process overseen by the Department of Social Services, in consultation with key stakeholders.

As at February 2024, there are more than 430 ILC funded projects across every state and territory, all working towards the shared goal of creating a more inclusive and accessible Australia.

General feedback and a full list of successful grant recipients, is available on the Community Grants Hub website.

More information about the ILC program is available on the Department of Social Services website.