Grants provide boost for disability support groups

By Kayla Jones

Apr 15, 2024

Grant inbound: The Shepparton MS support group helps people with multiple sclerosis and their carers. Photo by Rodney Braithwaite

The Shepparton MS peer support group has been announced as one of 72 groups to receive increased support through the Victorian Government’s disability self-help grants program.

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This program offers grants of up to $14,000 over two years for peer support groups to provide more support for Victorians with disabilities.

Support groups can use these grants to cover everyday expenses, fund small-scale projects and purchase new equipment.

Now, for the first time, grants can be used to assist with organising activities that celebrate pride and promote awareness and recognition or to hire guest speakers.

Self-help groups unite individuals with disabilities and their families with others in similar situations, fostering a supportive space to exchange insights, engage in activities and encourage community involvement.

This round of grants aimed to strengthen the social, emotional and practical support provided through these groups, prioritising groups that aid individuals from diverse cultural and social backgrounds, including those in regional and rural areas.

First Nations people, young people, women and girls, autistic and neurodiverse people, and people who identify as LGBTQIA+ were among the groups focused on.

“This is just one way we are making sure people with disability can participate in all aspects of our community — helping to build an inclusive Victoria,” Disability Minister Lizzie Blandthorn said.

More details on the grants are available at providers.dffh.vic.gov.au/disability-self-help-grants-program