New Funding Scheme in QLD: Vehicle Options Subsidy Scheme

Disabled Queenslanders will be able to apply for a subsidy for driving lessons, vehicle assessments and vehicle modifications.  The Queensland Government has announced a vehicle modification subsidy scheme to support people with a disability being independent and involved with their communities.

In the lead up to the Queensland State election, Disability Services Minister Curtis Pitt said more than 500 Queenslanders with a disability will benefit from the $1.8 million Vehicle Options Subsidy Scheme (VOSS) over the next two years.

“This new scheme is about increasing the independence of people with a disability and helping them to get more active in their communities,” he said.

“For many people with disabilities it’s a daily challenge to get to work, visit friends or do the shopping. That’s why we’re introducing a new scheme which will provide subsidies for a range of transport options including driving lessons, vehicle assessments and vehicle modifications.

 “Some people with a disability need private transport because public transport might not be suitable for their circumstances.”

Subsidies will be offered towards the cost of a range of vehicle access options, including:

• lessons to learn to drive a modified car
• a detailed assessment by an allied health professional
• the cost of vehicle modification
• the purchase of an already modified vehicle or a vehicle to be modified specifically to match identified needs.

The scheme has been developed with input from an expert advisory committee including specialists from Lifetec, Queenslanders with a Disability Network (QDN), RACQ, Carers Queensland, Queensland Health and Queensland Transport.  It will be operational from 2 April 2012.

For more information about the scheme soon, see www.qld.gov.au/disability.

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