Legislative Council Wednesday 23 June, 2021

Ms FORREST question to LEADER of the GOVERNMENT in the LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, Mrs HISCUTT

QUESTION:

With regard to funding to support the important work of Huntington’s Disease Tasmania (HDT), I acknowledge the current support of $15,000 per annum to enable the volunteer organisation to operate and the three case workers employed to assist with client care and advice.

Further, as Tasmania is the only jurisdiction without a funded CEO, and the highest rates of HDT in the country:

1. Will the government consider funding an additional $80,000 per annum as requested in HDT’s budget submission to enable the engagement of a CEO and administrative support to ensure the increasing numbers of Tasmanians with HDT are adequately supported;

2. If so, will this funding be provided in the 2021/22 financial year;

3. If not, how will the growing needs of Tasmanians with HDT and their families be adequately supported?

ANSWER:

1. The Community Budget Submission and Strategic Plan provided by Huntington’s Disease Tasmania makes a case for a review of the funding that is provided to them. The Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing has asked the Department of Health to meet with Huntington’s Disease Tasmania to fully understand how they can meet the needs of Tasmanians experiencing Huntington’s Disease and their families and carers.

2. One of the outcomes of this meeting will be a recommendation on the level of funding required to allow Huntington’s Disease Tasmania to meet the identified needs. This funding will be considered for provision in 2021 – 22.

3. The meeting between Huntington’s Disease Tasmania and the Department of Health will make clear the needs of this community and how HDT can best support them, which the Tasmanian Government will consider funding in 2021 – 22.