Two budget initiatives announced this week have been met with approval by the Spinal Injuries Association, the peak body for people with spinal cord injuries in Queensland.
Spinal Injuries Association CEO Mark Henley said two announcements in the State Budget delivered by Treasurer Andrew Fraser would have significant benefits for Queenslanders with spinal cord injuries.
“The $3.2 million expansion of the Spinal Cord Injuries Response (SCIR) initiative is a tremendous outcome for people living with quadriplegia or paraplegia sustained through trauma or disease,” Mr Henley said.
“SCIR provides health, disability and personal support for people once they leave the Spinal Injuries Unit. This additional funding will improve the quality of life of people with spinal cord injuries in Queensland. It is a great decision.”
Mr Henley said the State Government’s announcement of the Medical Cooling and Heating Electricity Concession Scheme would also be welcome news to Queenslanders who have medical conditions, including people with spinal cord injuries, who require temperature control.
“Some of our members experience major health issues as they have a physical intolerance to heat. They lose the ability to regulate their body temperature, which can result in life-threatening medical complications. This Scheme will make a difference to these members’ power bills and provide some relief.
“While there is still a long way to go before people with spinal cord injuries in Queensland have all of their support needs met, these two announcements by the Queensland Government are a very positive step forward. We look forward to continuing to work productively with the State Government and particularly the Disability Services Minister and her department to improve the quality of life of people with spinal cord injury in Queensland.”
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