Ian Goodenough (Moore, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

As part of the 2021 Volunteer Grants program, I'm pleased to be able to deliver up to $132,450 in federal funding to assist volunteer based organisations in my electorate to provide better community services. Applications are now open.

Last week, I had the pleasure of visiting the new premises of Wheelchairs For Kids at the invitation of Brother Olly Pickett AM, Gordon Hudson and David Hudson MBE. The respected local charity manufactures wheelchairs for disadvantaged children living in developing countries, with the involvement of around 800 dedicated volunteers, mainly senior citizens aged between 55 and 85. Up to 200 of these volunteers work in the professionally equipped and meticulously set out workshop—a highly organised production line of specialised manufacturing and assembly tasks.

Over the years, the design of the wheelchairs has been improved through testing and redesign. They are built to World Health Organization standards to be fully adjustable and to be able to withstand use in rough terrain. Wheelchairs For Kids is supported by Rotary, private donations and government grants. The professionalism in its operation shows that manufacturing in Australia is alive and well, when there is the resolve and dedication to make goods locally. Later this year, the organisation— (Time expired)