At the opening Gateways Board president Bernie Jenner said the new facility was a welcome improvement to the quality of life of Gateways clients and staff.

The new facility was purpose built for clients with very complex needs aged 25 years or less and replaces a temporary facility that housed clients for seven years.

“We have always wanted to see these clients with complex needs housed in a building that allows them to make choices, reach their potential and above all – live with dignity,” Dr Jenner said.

“We congratulate the State Government for recognising the need to build this Moolap facility.”

“More and more people are seeking this type of accommodation and Gateways looks forward to working with the State Government to develop further facilities that support the wellbeing of disabled people and their families,’ Dr Jenner said.

The new Moolap house has room for four clients, as well as an attached unit that houses an additional client. It also has facilities to allow a staff member to sleep over each night.

“Staff will be working in an environment that is new and purpose-built - a fantastic difference to their workplace,” Dr Jenner said.

Gateways provides residential support to 37 people with disabilities in community residential units in the Barwon South Western Region.

Support is provided to people with very complex needs, who need help with daily living and independence skills, community participation and supervision overnight.