Australia’s leading autism early intervention service has expanded its reach in Townsville with the official opening of AEIOU Foundation’s new purpose-built facility in Idalia.  

Made possible with funding from both the Australian and Queensland governments, participating mineral resources industry partners, and philanthropic support, the new facility will increase enrolment capacity, offering more placements for specialised education and autism-specific therapy for Townsville children and families.  

Deputy Premier, Treasurer and Minister for Trade and Investment the Honourable Cameron Dick, speaking at the official opening, said the centre is an investment in the futures of children, and recognises the benefits of education, therapy and family supports.  

“Through this new centre, we will see the facilitation of lifechanging supports for young children and families,” Minister Dick said.  

“I’m so proud to be part of a Government that invests in giving young Queenslanders the best start in life and proving them with a lifetime of opportunities.” 

Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth said the Albanese Government was proud to support the expansion of essential services in Townsville, ensuring families can access the resources they need close to home. 

“This centre is an example of our commitment to improving access to quality services, working with local communities and supporting children to grow and develop.”  

Funding for the $5.6 million project, including $1million from the Queensland Government’s Resources Community Infrastructure Fund grant program and $2 million from the Australian Government, was already secured when the previous centre in Kirwan was destroyed by an arsonist in March this year.  

AEIOU CEO Alan Smith said despite the fire, services continued thanks to local childcare Billy Lids Kindergarten, who provided rooms for AEIOU’s use. 

“The devastation our staff and families experienced as a result of the fire was palpable. The supportive community, therapy and education accessed at AEIOU is unique and valuable in our community. Having faced these challenges makes this opening event even special,” Mr Smith said.  

“The need for a purpose-built facility in Townsville had been acknowledged for many years and it is very exciting to see this project come to fruition for Townsville children, families, and staff," he said.  

“Reaching this point was a true collaborative effort. I thank our team, our families and our partners in government, business, and community for their shared vision and support of these children and their unique strengths, needs and potential.” 

The continuing generosity of AEIOU’s donor community also shone in June this year when an emergency appeal to replace handmade resources like visual aids that were destroyed in the fire raised approximately $245k. Major donors Bill Henderson and Ross Forgan Smith contributed significantly towards this emergency appeal. 

The Idalia centre was designed by Buchan Group and constructed by Hutchinson Builders.  

Proudly funded by the Resources Community Infrastructure Fund - a voluntary partnership between the Queensland Government, Participating Mineral Resources Industry Parties, the Queensland Resources Council and its members in association with the Australian Government. Jointly funded by the Australian Government Department of Social Services, Chain Reaction Challenge Foundation, Tim Fairfax Foundation and Wantz Committee. 

Source: aeiou.org.au