Funding support for community hub in Cairns
Community-based organisation ARC Disability Services Inc. has received funding to boost development of its $2.75 million ARC51 Community Hub. This purpose-built, place-based service will support people with disabilities in the southern corridor of Cairns.
ARC’s CEO Ben Keast said the organisation is excited to be a recipient of the CIIP grant.
“The Southern Corridor of Cairns has always been an area ARC has had a commitment to bring place-based services to, and with the support of this grant, ARC will be able to make this a reality,” Mr Keast said.
“ARC is celebrating 45 years of supporting the Cairns and Far North Community and we are excited for the opportunity this building will bring for ARC and the community over the years to come.”
The $1 million grant comes thanks to the department’s $8 million Community Infrastructure Investment Partnership program. The program invests in social infrastructure to boost services and create jobs for communities impacted by COVID-19, just like this one.
Many people with a disability have found themselves with restricted access to place-based services due to social distancing requirements. The funding will address this need, enhancing and increasing program and service offerings. The purpose-built development will include a commercial kitchen, larger meeting space, training space, multi-purpose break-out rooms, and office space.
ARC already offers a range of programs and services across its facilities. In fact, this news coincides with ARC’s own anniversary. The not-for-profit organisation has been servicing the Cairns region for 45 years to advocate community and active participation for all.
Work is expected to begin in August 2021 and be completed by August 2022, pending development application approval.
Find out more about the Community Infrastructure Investment Partnership program.
Last updated: 25 Nov 2021