A RECENT email from a regular reader of this column highlighted an issue with funding levels for the Home Assist Secure program.
If you are not familiar with it, this state government program began in 1993 and subsidises small handyman jobs in the homes of eligible seniors and people with disabilities.
Work can include installation of smoke alarms, grab rails and ramps. Security improvements were included but ceased last December.
The gist of the email was to highlight the annual amount of $500 has not increased since June 2023. It only applies to labour and is limited to $200 per job.
As we all know, the cost of tradies has skyrocketed in recent years.
I do agree with my correspondent that Home Assist Secure needs an urgent review.
While it is funded by the State Government, the Council administers the program in Ipswich and parts of adjacent rural council areas.
Also of concern is the imminent end in June of the subsidy to install smoke alarms.
It appears that almost by stealth, Home Assist Secure is being wound back instead of increased to match cost of living. Previously included subsidies for security improvements should be restored and smoke alarms made permanent in the program.
It’s time to call on all our local state members to lobby for increased funding to save this important service for the community.
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