THE HON. GREG HUNT MP
Federal Member for Flinders
Minister for Health and Aged Care
MEDIA RELEASE
6th April 2022
Abacus’ new purpose-built learning facility began on-site construction today with its official sod turning ceremony.
Funded by a $1.2 million investment from the Morrison Government, the new purpose-built learning centre will enable Abacus to continue their work in enabling local children across the Peninsula with (Autism Spectrum Disorder) ASD to reach their educational goals.
Once constructed, the new 482m² modular facility will feature:
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- At least six therapy rooms,
- A sensory play room and gross motor room,
- A unisex adult and junior toilet facility,
- A parent’s room,
- A sealed, accessible carpark and footpath to access mobility ramp.
Federal Member for Flinders, the Hon. Greg Hunt MP congratulated Abacus on the sod turning ceremony and looked forward to seeing the centre helping local children and their families once it’s fully constructed.
“Abacus has done amazing work in guiding families and their children through ASD and helping them with their communication and social skills early on,” Minister Hunt said.
“Through my walks for Autism over the years, visiting local schools, I’ve heard so many stories of the challenges faced by local families caring for a child with autism – and I’ve also seen firsthand the benefits early intervention and assistance has for children diagnosed with ASD.”
“That’s why I’m excited to see Abacus begin building their amazing purpose-built centre, so they can light the way forward for parents and their children with ASD, assisting these kids to make more sense of the world around them, to be the best they can be.”
“Thank you to every member of the community who over the years have literally walked with me on this journey, to support organisations like Abacus.”
Abacus Deputy Chair, Kylie Coad said that this milestone development will create up to 10 additional spaces for children with autism to access life-changing early intervention and will also provide the centre with multi-use spaces that are designed for delivering psychology, training, and professional development services.
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