AEIOU expands outreach with new service at Idalia

The AEIOU Foundation is constructing a new purpose-built centre at Idalia in Queensland, replacing an existing leased service in Kirwan.

 

Designed by the Buchan Group and to be constructed by Hutchinson Builders, the service will be a new home for AEIOU in the Townsville district, where it has been working with the community for 15 years. 

 

“The need for a purpose-built facility has been acknowledged for many years, and it is very exciting to see this project come to fruition for Townsville children, families and staff,” said AEIOU CEO Alan Smith.

 

“This result is a true collaborative effort, with funding from state and federal governments, backing from philanthropic partners, our own fundraising efforts, and support from partners like Buchan Group and Hutchinson Builders. We’re thrilled that it is now becoming a reality.” 

 

The new centre will open from mid-2024, and will feature an additional classroom, state-of-the-art therapy rooms and a dedicated parent education room, enabling AEIOU to expand its reach and support more local children with an autism diagnosis. 

 

$2 million of the $5.6 million development is being funded by the Australian Government, with a further $1 million coming from the Queensland Government.

 

Assistant Treasurer and Minister for Financial Services Stephen Jones, representing the Australian Government at a sod turning event on Wednesday, 12 July, said breaking ground at the site marked a significant milestone for families in the Townsville area. 

 

“AEIOU plays a vital role in the community here, and it’s fantastic to support young children through this new facility,” Mr Jones said. “It will improve AEIOU’s capacity to meet the needs of local children now and into the future, extending their reach to more children and families.” 

 

“The Queensland Government is proud to invest in our young people and in this excellent new center that will provide so much for the Townsville Community,” added State Member for Mundingburra Les Walker.

 

The new AEIOU Centre in Idalia is expected to be completed in mid-2024.