ABACUS Learning Centre in Hastings, which provides invaluable therapy and support for children with autism, is in desperate need of a shade sail for their students. That’s why an elected Coalition Government will provide $20,000 for the purchase and installation of a shade sail at Abacus Learning Centre.
Our kids deserve safe outdoor play, without exposure to harmful UV rays. Australians suffer skin cancer at greater rates than any other country in the world, and the Mornington Peninsula has the highest rate of melanoma in Melbourne. At least two in three Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer in their lifetime. A shade sail would allow for outside play, which has the benefits of developing social and gross motor skills, to occur at any time of year.
90% of students attend mainstream schools upon completion of Abacus’ program and need less support across their lifetime, opening up a future of work and community participation. This funding commitment will go a long way towards providing the best possible learning facilities for local children on the autism spectrum.
Zoe McKenzie MP, Federal Member for Flinders, who made the funding announcement at Abacus Learning Centre’s Open Day on Sunday 2 March, commented that “the Coalition’s commitment of $20,000 in much-needed funds for a shade sail will allow the children at Abacus Learning Centre to participate in outdoor play, at all times of the year.”
“The team at Abacus Learning Centre provide incredible assistance to children with autism, and hopefully this investment will ensure the children every child on the Mornington Peninsula has the best possible facilities to support their development.”
First published in the Mornington News – 4 February 2025
