Minister for the NDIS opens STEPS Pathways College extension
Recently we had the pleasure of welcoming the Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and Minister for Government Services, Stuart Robert MP, and Andrew Wallace, Member for Fisher, to open the STEPS Pathways College Extension.
Due to immense demand, STEPS Pathways College has undertaken three extensions: two new accommodation facilities and one new recreational area.
The recreational area, known as “Mason’s place”, will provide an all-weather sanctuary for the students, where they are able to relax, socialise, and further their education.
The two accommodation facilities, one of which is named “The Mills Family Wing”, will extend the STEPS Pathways College experience to a further twelve students and will continue to provide simulated living environments to students to teach them independent living skills while in a safe
and supported environment.
Carmel Crouch, founder of the College and Managing Director of STEPS, shared her excitement at the official proceedings.
“Most people will know that STEPS Pathways College is very much a passion project for me, and it has been an honour to be able to see so many of our students finding their path, achieving their independence, and moving into our community,” Ms. Crouch said.
Stuart Robert MP, sung praises for the College in his official opening, specifically adding the importance of the STEPS Pathways College online program for rural NDIS participants.
“What we are seeing here with STEPS is a world leading model,” Mr. Robert said.
“Rural and remote areas continue to not receive the services they need because of the thinness of markets. These are the continuing challenges which we need to move on.
“This is why it is so wonderful to see the online program that STEPS Pathways College is running here, so that people with disabilities have the opportunity to engage regardless of where they live,” Mr. Robert said.
“Taking care of Australians is worth all of our time, it’s a national endeavour.
“Together, as STEPS is showing, we can do profoundly great things in our community.”
