Greens MP Anasina Gray-Barberio MP demands answers from the Minister for Disability

Anasina GRAY-BARBERIO (Northern Metropolitan) (12:45): (1164) My question is for the Minister for Disability. Minister, you have previously spoken in this place about an MOU between the state government and HACSU, the Health and Community Services Union, which comes to an end on 31 December this month. This MOU has allowed for the continuation of providing supported independent living services to people with complex and multiple disabilities. Sadly, as this MOU comes to an end this month, many of these residents are at risk of homelessness or being housed in unfit housing. Minister, can you explain how this aligns with your government’s State Disability Plan 2022–2026, especially its commitments to systemic reform and disability-confident and inclusive workforces, considering what is currently at stake for frontline disability workers and for people with disabilities living in group homes?

Anasina GRAY-BARBERIO (Northern Metropolitan) (12:49): Thank you, Minister. Last week I visited an Aruma group home in my electorate where residents with complex needs, many unable to walk, speak or care for themselves, rely entirely on skilled staff for their daily lives. Supported independent living not-for-profit providers warned they are on the financial brink and unable to maintain a stable skilled workforce. How will you ensure people with complex disabilities are not left in limbo and continue to receive safe, high-quality support in their group homes?