May 20, 2021

The RACP has welcomed the Australian Government’s additional funding in the Budget to improve health services for people with intellectual disabilities and says it will make a much-needed difference for them.

The announcement follows a national roundtable consultation process on improving health services for people with intellectual disabilities, that included representatives from the RACP.

RACP President-elect, Dr Jacqueline Small says “We’re really glad that the Australian Government has responded to our recommendations provided in roundtable process.

“There is an urgent need to fund training and education for health professionals and inclusive healthcare services to address significant health disparities.

“This funding will make an important difference in the lives of those living with an intellectual disability.”

The funding announced by the Australian Government includes:

• $6.7 million for Annual Health Assessments (AHAs)
• $1.4 million for scoping and co-design of a National Centre of Excellence in Intellectual Disability Health
• $4.6 million for intellectual disability health curriculum development

The College looks forward to continuing to work with the Australian Government to improve the health services for people living with disabilities.