Holiday house opens new doors for people with disability

People with disability can now access a new state-of-the art fully accessible holiday house on the Gold Coast – the first of its kind in Australia.

Disability Services Minister Coralee O’Rourke officially opened the ‘Our Getaway Gold Coast’ holiday house today for Montrose Therapy and Respite Services in Labrador.

“Located only a stone’s throw away from the beach, parks and shops, this unique service provides the perfect escape for people of all ages, their carers and families,” Mrs O’Rourke said.

“Taking a holiday when a family member has a disability can be complex – but with 24 hour support available, equipment and vehicle hire, this great accommodation option will help the whole family take a well-deserved break.

“The house has a flexible layout and design, which means couples or families can choose between a two, four or six bedroom space.

“The home also includes technology and design features to enable full accessibility and extensive support for every guest.” 

Mrs O’Rourke said the Palaszczuk Government provided more than $7.5 million in ongoing funding to Montrose to deliver vital support services to people with disability in the south east corner.

Montrose Therapy and Respite Services CEO Linda Apelt said she was delighted to offer respite and accessible holiday accommodation on the Gold Coast.

“Our building is unique in Australia in being a custom-designed holiday facility that is suitable for all ages and fully accessible for people with physical disability and mobility impairment,” she said.

“Many of us take a family holiday for granted but it can be more difficult for those with a family member with disability.

“Our Getaway means that now everyone can enjoy the Gold Coast.”

Minister O’Rourke said many more opportunities would be made available to Queenslanders with disability through the rollout of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) on the Gold Coast from July 2018.

“The transition to the NDIS will transform the way people access disability care and supports, and will revolutionise the way disability services are funded and delivered,” she said.

“It will mean individuals and families have the choice and control to access services that match their needs —  and organisations like Montrose will play a vital role in the disability services system under the NDIS.”

For more information on Our Getaway Gold Coast visit www.ourgetaway.com.au/

For more information about the NDIS visit www.ndis.gov.au or call the NDIA on 1800 800 110. People with hearing or speech loss can call TTY 1800 555 677.