Page 2165 - Week 06 - Thursday, 7 May 2009
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§ This policy framework is for children and young people under the age of 18 who are living in the ACT, and who have a disability that results in an ongoing need for support.
§ In 2006-07 there were 2,497 children under 15 years in the ACT receiving services funded through the Commonwealth State/Territory Disability Agreement (CSTDA). This represents more than 70% of the total users of CSTDA services in the ACT.
§ The importance of this policy framework cannot be underestimated. It draws together the principles and commitments of the key ACT Government agencies that provide services to children and young people with a disability. It outlines core principles, clarifies roles and responsibilities, provides guidance for coordination, and establishes joint planning mechanisms across and between agencies.
§ The framework emphasises the fundamental principle that a child or young person with a disability needs to be recognised as child or young person first. With this recognition the child or young person is accorded the same treatment, including access to the same services and care that would be provided to any child or young person.
§ It also acknowledges that a child or young person with a disability may require additional support in recognition of their special needs arising from the impact of their disability.
§ Importantly, the policy framework establishes Disability ACT as the single entity that has overall responsibility for ensuring the outcomes for children and young people with a disability are achieved across government. Disability ACT will be responsible for implementing the policy framework, including the coordination and development of integrated processes. Disability ACT will also monitor, review and update the policy framework.
§ More than 99% of children and young people with a disability live with their family who provide for most of their support requirements. At various times, families may seek additional assistance from their natural support networks, community agencies, generic services, and from specialist service providers.
§ Navigating the service system can at times be complicated. The effective coordination and collaboration among the support providers is crucial to ensure that the best possible outcomes are achieved, helping families to sustain their caring role.
§ The policy framework acknowledges the role of government in supporting families to care for their children and facilitating early intervention strategies for those families that require it.
§ An important outcome of the policy framework will be the development of mechanisms for the coordination of information between agencies to assist families to access the information they require when they need it.
§ Through the policy framework the ACT Government is delivering its commitments under major national agreements.
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