The Department of Social Services has streamlined funding programs for social service providers. This will see existing grant programs consolidated into seven packages and the setting up of a Disability, Mental Health and Carers Program with additional funding committed to this for new and existing services. The program will focus on early intervention and other support through community based initiatives.
Five year funding agreements totalling $1.5 billion will be offered to more than 250 service providers. The new plans, which came into effect on July 1, are expected to reduce red tape with a more simplified and consistent reporting process as well as promoting greater community input and flexibility.
For more information visit: www.dss.gov.au/grants