Community
10 February, 2024
Calls for disability support funding
CALLS for government funding support to keep Tasty Plate open, and support other disability service providers, reached Parliament this week.
As the Warrnambool Weekly reported in January, Brophy Family and Youth Services confirmed the closure of social catering enterprise Tasty Plate, which had provided employment opportunities to those living with a disability.
At the time Brophy cited concerns surrounding financial viability, a lack of NDIS participant-funded packages and a decline in participant numbers.
South-West Coast MP Roma Britnell and Wannon MP Dan Tehan called for an independent review, however Brophy rejected this offer.
The member for South-West Coast continued her push to save the service through a consistency question in the Legislative Assembly on Monday.
Ms Britnell raised her concerns surrounding the shock closure during the first Parliamentary sitting date for 2024, questioning Minister for Disability Lizzie Blandthorn MP on what funding options were available to ensure the future of the social enterprise.
“Minister, the sudden and unexpected closure of Tasty Plate by Brophy Family and Youth Services has deeply impacted so many across South-West Coast,” she said.
“Tasty Plate gave individuals of all abilities the opportunity to participate in society, to feel empowered, to be employed and to contribute, with a successful local cafe that was strongly supported by many.”
Ms Britnell said Brophy’s decision had left the community reeling, and seeking answers on what could be done to save the service.
“Since (the closure announcement) interested community members have contacted me about what can be done,” she said.
“One provider is willing to restart a social enterprise in a similar format to Tasty Plate.
“I know how well this will be received, so I ask: Minister, what state government funding sources are available for Tasty Plate and other South-West Coast disability service providers that employ and train participants?”
