Supporting seriously injured Victorians at home

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29 Aug 2017

Minister for Finance Robin Scott today turned the first sod on six new two-bedroom units and a central support hub being built as part of the Transport Accident Commission’s (TAC) Residential Independence (RIPL) program.

The $40 million RIPL program supports TAC clients to regain independence and live safely in their own homes, with assistance from carers or medical professionals brought in as needed.

The $5.6 million Wheelers Hill development will give TAC clients currently living with carers or in nursing homes a greater level of autonomy in their day-to-day living and a better quality of life.

It includes an integrated home automation system, which allows them to communicate with support staff and control features of the house using a smartphone or tablet.

More than 5,000 Victorians are seriously injured in transport accidents each year, around 90 of whom sustain a spinal cord injury or a severe acquired brain injury.

The RIPL project was created to address a shortage of accommodation for severely injured clients.

Wheelers Hill will be the fifth purpose-built TAC housing project after developments in Glenroy, Frankston, Lilydale and Abbotsford, where 21 TAC clients are already living independently.

Construction is expected to be completed by April 2018.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Finance Robin Scott

“Being dependant on others for simple, everyday tasks is a major barrier to regaining quality of life following a debilitating injury – that’s why this program is so important.”

“We’re giving people injured on our roads their independence back and ensuring they have the support they need, when and where they need it.”

Quotes attributable to Transport Accident Commission CEO Joe Calafiore

“This is a $40 million investment that is changing the lives of seriously injured Victorians.”

“This housing in Wheelers Hill will allow people who have a connection with the area, to get back into the community that they may have been dislocated from.”

Sod Turning for RIPL housing

from left, RIPL board advisor Ray Harvey, TAC CEO Joe Calafiore, Minister for Finance Robin Scott, TAC Head of Independence Liz Cairns, and RIPL board advisor Keran Howe.

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Sod Turning for RIPL housing

from left, Minister for Finance Robin Scott, TAC CEO Joe Calafiore, TAC Head of Independence Liz Cairns.

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Sod Turning for RIPL housing

from left, TAC Head of Independence Liz Cairns, RIPL's Ben Carter, TAC CEO Joe Calafiore, RIPL's Jason Braden.

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