The Minns Labor Government is partnering with the Ricky Stuart Foundation to deliver the John Fordham House in South Jerrabomberra, a new best practice accommodation home for people living with a disability.
$5.14 million is being invested as part of the Government's ongoing work to build a better New South Wales, with greater opportunities, inclusion and understanding of peoples living with a disability.
The House will be made up of private living spaces with indoor and outdoor areas including a breakout room, kitchen, living, dining, courtyard and a carers office with live in facilities.
The home will include design features that ensure an accessible home including wider corridors, and will be completed with fittings, fixtures and finishes specifically designed to ensure safety.
Residents will be encouraged to engage in their local community and grow their networks by participating in local events, sports, social activities and by working locally.
The project will be led by the Ricky Stuart Foundation which has demonstrated experience in the design, development and delivery of disability accommodation and support projects, having constructed Ricky Stuart House in 2016 and Emma Ruby House in 2018, providing local families with access to state-of-the-art disability respite care and accommodation.
The Minns Labor Government is committed to making NSW a more inclusive and accessible place for people with disability. As part of this commitment, the Government last year announced the largest investment in accessible housing in the state's history - a $5.1 billion package to deliver 8,400 new social homes, all of which will meet National accessibility standards.
The Ricky Stuart Foundation was created in 2011 by former Kangaroos and NSW Blues halfback and now Canberra Raiders coach Ricky Stuart and his wife Kaylie.
Following their daughter Emma's autism diagnosis at age 11, Ricky and Kaylie became aware of the lack of awareness, services and support for families in similar situations. Having experienced firsthand the challenges of raising a child with autism, Ricky and Kaylie knew more needed to be done to support local families.
The project has been named in honour of Ricky's mentor and manager, the late John Fordham, who is remembered for his legacy of dedication across many charities including the establishment of the Head and Neck Foundation and work with the Cauliflower Club.
For more information, go to: www.rickystuart.org
Minister for Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty said:
"This is a fantastic initiative which will help improve quality of life and economic independence for people living with disability.
"The home will provide inclusive accommodation to help residents build skills, independence and social connection as well as much-needed peace of mind for families worried about safety and security for their loved ones."
Minister for Disability Inclusion, Kate Washington said:
"Everyone deserves a place to call home - a home that supports independence, inclusion and connection. This project is a great example of how we can create spaces that truly reflect the needs of people with disability and help them thrive in their communities.
"The Minns Labor Government is committed to building a more inclusive NSW, where people with disability are supported not only to live well, but to belong."
Local Member for Monaro, Steve Whan said:
This is such a fantastic project for South Jerrabomberra, and I know it will mean a lot to many local families. Everyone deserves to feel safe, supported and connected with their community, and that is exactly what John Fordham House will offer to those who access the facility.
I've seen the difference that the Ricky Stuart Foundation has made through its other accommodations, and I'm proud to see that kind of care and commitment coming to our region.
John Fordham House will give families peace of mind, knowing their loved ones have access to the right support in a caring space that has been designed with care and dignity at front of mind. I'm thrilled that the NSW Government is backing this important work."
Chairperson and Founder of Ricky Stuart Foundation, Ricky Stuart said:
"Emma's journey to independent living has taught us so much about what young people need to thrive. John Fordham House is built on that experience. It will give others the same opportunity, a safe and supportive home where they can grow, feel proud of who they are and be part of their local community."
"The $5.14 million commitment from the NSW Government means we can get on with delivering the promise we made to local families. This is about more than building a home. We are creating a blueprint for supported living that puts dignity, inclusion and community at the centre. I'm proud we're doing that right here in Queanbeyan."
