I had the pleasure of attending a National Press Club address last week delivered by Sam Mostyn AO. Sam, speaking in her capacity as Chair of the Women’s Economic Equality Taskforce, outlined the work of the taskforce and their efforts to boost the economy by improving gender equality. 

As Sam ran through some of the statistics on the barriers women continue to face with regards to economic participation, attendees were rightly dismayed that the situation hasn’t improved for many, despite years of awareness around this issue.  

I found myself reflecting that while the situation for women in general still has a lot of room for improvement, the experience of women and girls with a disability is even worse. Evidence presented to the Disability Royal Commission has shown that women and girls with a disability are subject to alarming rates of violence and exploitation. We all play a vital role in calling out all forms of abuse and ensuring people with a disability live with dignity. 

Australia’s Disability Strategy 2021–31 is our national plan to make life better for people with a disability and ensure Australia is more inclusive. Recently released, the first annual report on the Strategy’s Outcomes Framework provides a baseline from which we can measure improvements. While some of its results are underwhelming, to say the least, an agreed Framework is critical for holding governments, business, the community sector and the public accountable for improving the lives of people with a disability. 

In other news, NDS has recently made submissions around the DES Quality Framework and the Inquiry into the Capability and Culture of the NDIA, which can both be found on our website. 

The NDIA has announced a new grant round for home and living projects, which has up to $1.5 million available over two years. Details are in this month’s newsletter. 

A little closer to home, the ACT Government has opened its consultation on the development of a voluntary assisted dying model. There is a discussion paper and submissions are open until 6 April. 

I am continuing to have discussions with the ACT Government about the issues surrounding Physical and Sexual Abuse Insurance. This feeds into work taking place nationally to ensure that disability providers will continue to have access to this insurance in the future. 

I’m looking forward to seeing many of you at our upcoming ACT Disability Sector Forum on 23 March. If you haven’t secured your tickets yet, don’t miss out! 

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NDS Workforce Census

The 2023 Workforce Census is now open. This unique survey data will inform NDS advocacy for more effective disability workforce policies. Complete the 2023 Workforce Census survey by Thursday 6 April.