A local family’s struggle to secure swimming safety equipment for their autistic son at Suttons Beach has highlighted challenges with disability support and beach accessibility in the Moreton Bay region.
Cheryl Warner’s 12-year-old son Jai, who is non-verbal, has been unable to swim at Suttons Beach after an NDIS provider refused to fund a lifejacket. The incident stems from a near-death experience two years ago when Jai unintentionally dragged his carer into deep waters, with an off-duty lifeguard ultimately rescuing them.
Warner’s attempt to obtain a $395 lifejacket was rejected by Plan Partners, citing recent changes to the NDIS Act that restrict equipment funding unless medically necessary. An NDIS-approved occupational therapist, Matt Maree, expressed concerns about liability, stating the request was outside his scope of practice.
Psychologist Wan Garrett noted that while the lifejacket had previously worked for Jai, it would not be funded as an “off the shelf” item. The NDIA reported it had not received a request to approve the lifejacket funding.
The family experienced a contrast during a holiday on North Stradbroke Island, which has swimming safety enclosures. Moreton City Council acknowledged the request but emphasised that beach enclosures are a state responsibility, not a local government matter.
The council highlighted its investments in beach infrastructure, including $17 million in upgrades at Suttons Beach and the provision of beach wheelchairs and beach matting. However, no swimming enclosures are planned.
Photo Credit: City of Moreton Bay
Maritime Safety Queensland and the Transport and Main Roads Department were contacted but did not provide substantive comments on potential swimming enclosure plans.
Published 20-November-2024