Foundational Supports are part of a proposed framework to assist people with disabilities who may not be eligible for the NDIS or need additional services. These supports aim to build capacity, foster inclusion, and provide access to essential resources for individuals and families, particularly in regional and remote areas like Central West Queensland.

This initiative is emerging from the NDIS Review, Disability Royal Commission, and broader disability reforms led by the Commonwealth and State Governments.

• For Individuals and Families: Could provide support to people who fall outside NDIS eligibility, addressing gaps in services.

• For Service Providers and Community Organisations: Offers an opportunity to adapt and expand services to meet regional needs.

• For Regional Communities: Focuses on creating place-based solutions like community hubs to deliver services sustainably in remote areas.

By engaging in this discussion, you can help shape how these supports might work for our region.

The implementation of Foundational Supports is a multi-year process, with key milestones planned to ensure stakeholder input and thoughtful design:

• 2024:

  • Stakeholder engagement and feedback collection to shape the initial framework.

  • Community and sector consultations led by the Department of Social Services (DSS) and Queensland Disability Network (QDN).

• 2025:

  • Framework development based on consultation insights.

  • Pilot programs proposed, including a focus on children aged 0–8 years.

• 2026 and Beyond:

  • Gradual rollout of Foundational Supports to ensure smooth implementation and adaptability to regional needs.

This timeline is subject to change based on consultation outcomes and government decisions, but it highlights the phased approach being taken to design and implement these reforms.

Your participation in consultations is vital to ensuring the unique needs of remote Queensland are considered in these foundational stages.