This announcement will benefit more than 2000 young people aged 0-17 with disabilities in and around Lithgow, the Blue Mountains and Penrith areas. 

This early roll-out is made possible thanks to a partnership between state and federal governments, and gives people with a disability choice and control and empowers them to select the support they need to fulfil their goals. I also believe it delivers on the Coalition government’s election promise of a better deal for people with a disability.

The NDIS roll-out is planned for July 1, with participants beginning to have their plans developed by September. All other people eligible for the scheme will start to access it from July 1, 2016. A new National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) office will be established in Penrith to help all eligible recipients in Lithgow.

As part of Anzac Day celebrations this year, each school in Calare received an Australian Government education resources pack to recognise the Centenary of Anzac.

On Friday I visited Bowen Public School and was pleased to learn they were making the very most of their books, posters and learning materials. 

Principal Rob McPherson and the students are planning an assembly and ceremony in the lead up to Anzac Day to pay tribute to our war heroes.

I think it’s great that so many of Calare’s schools recognize the importance of Anzac Day, especially this year which will be our nation’s most important day of national commemoration. 

I’m hoping that two new Federal Government initiatives will encourage more Calare residents to get fit, active and healthy.

Figures reveal that the number of people playing sport in Calare has fallen to just over a quarter in recent years and that’s simply not good enough. With one-in-four children now classed as overweight, we as adults need to set a good example. Whether it’s a game of footy, or a regular social bowls tournament it doesn’t matter, you’re up, you’re active and the benefits are endless.

The Government’s Play Sport Australia strategy is a movement to improve participation in organised sport, while the Sporting Schools Programme will allow schools to pick sporting programmes for their students and help them find and link with local coaches and organisations. For information visit wwww.ausport.gov.au or www.sportingschools.gov.au.