04/07/05
Goldfields-Esperance Minister John Bowler said the decision by the Federal Government to cut the annual funding to the Goldfields Individual and Family Support Association was disgusting.
Mr Bowler said the scrapping of the $84,708 in annual funding was another example of the Federal Government neglecting its responsibilities.
“I call on the Federal Minister for Health and Ageing Julie Bishop to reinstate the funding to this community service and ensure the Goldfields are not victims of a Liberal Party that is out of touch with the regions,” he said.
“It is a heartless move by Julie Bishop and one that was taken with little, if any, real consultation with the local organisation.
“To advise an organisation by email just one week before the cessation of funding on July 1 shows what a cowardly decision it has been.
“The association has been providing essential services to the community for 13 years and the removal of funding highlights the city-centric focus of the Federal Government and is a slap in the face for the Goldfields.”
The State Government has supported the Goldfields Individual and Family Support Association with additional grants funding through the Goldfields-Esperance Development Commission from the Kalgoorlie-Boulder Development Fund. Funding of $44,700.91 was allocated to the development of the Goldfields Support Workers Registry. This funding was utilised to employ a project officer to develop the registry and provided training for support workers.
“Having access to suitably qualified volunteers who can assist families in need is a vital component of the community,” Mr Bowler said.
“The support provided to families and individuals throughout the Goldfields cannot be questioned and the decision to cut the funds puts more pressure on the community.”
Mr Bowler will meet with the GIFSA chairperson on Friday.
Minister's office: 9213 6500
