Election Announcement

29 July 2010 Media Release

A GOOD START FOR CHILDREN WITH DOWN SYNDROME

Prime Minister Julia Gillard today announced the Better Start for Children with Disability Initiative which will ensure children with a disability have greater access to early intervention therapies and services.

More than 7000 children diagnosed with cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, Fragile X syndrome and vision or hearing impairments will now be eligible to receive up to $12,000 for early intervention services such speech pathology, physiotherapy and occupational therapy.

Children with Down syndrome under the age of 13 years old will also be eligible for Medicare rebates on up to 20 allied health visits per year.

“Every child deserves the very best start in life including children with Down syndrome,” said Catherine McAlpine, Executive Officer of Down Syndrome Victoria.

“This package will ensure children with Down syndrome receive the support they need to reach their full potential and become active contributing members of their families and the community,

“There is now ample evidence to demonstrate that investing in early intervention yields enormous benefits in the long run.

“Until now many families have been struggling to meet the cost of these important therapies out of their own pockets. If parents cannot pay then children miss out and the opportunity is lost.

“This announcement will provide welcome relief to many families and ensure every child with Down syndrome has the opportunity of receiving the many benefits of early intervention.”

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(Article thanks to Down Syndrome Victoria)