A SOUTH Kingsville family say their son will be $5000 short when the state government forces him to pay 75 per cent of his disability pension for board and lodging.
Peter Mountford and his wife Georgina say they will have to use their own pensions to help their son Julian, who has an intellectual disability, live in supported accommodation in Northcote.
From December 1, the Department of Human Services will increase Julian’s contribution for supported accommodation, purportedly to bring Victoria into line with other states.
Mr Mountford said there was no explanation of what other states provided in return for what they took from clients’ pensions. “Currently, Julian pays about 46 per cent of his disability pension for board and lodging. This proposed increase to 75 per cent will equate to an increase of 67 per cent in his contribution,” he said.
“Out of his pension, he contributes about 18 per cent for personal expenses [clothing, toiletries, outings etc] and a further 18 per cent for a day placement [including transport]. We are fortunate that his health is robust compared to many with disabilities but he still spends about $1000-$1500 per year on medical, dental and pharmaceutical needs. What’s left of his pension goes towards an annual holiday.”
Williamstown state MP Wade Noonan said 2500 Victorians were in a similar situation.
“They will be left with less than $100 a week or $5000 a year after their board and lodging are paid.
“I think these sorts of decisions by government are the most insidious decisions that governments can make — we’re talking about the most vulnerable people in society,” he said.
Government spokesman Michael Moore said the average cost of supporting a resident in Department of Human Services accommodation was $128,000 a year. “The new fees will bring the average contribution per resident for supported accommodation to approximately $17,500 per annum.”
Mr Moore said residents unable to meet their basic daily living expenses could access the DHS hardship policy.
“As well as ensuring fairness and equity, these fee changes for residents who have an accommodation place will mean that a group of people with disability, their families and carers who are currently desperately waiting on the Disability Support Register for respite, day services or accommodation, will now be able to access support.”
