2 November 2020
For immediate release
Thinking outside the box: QAI calls for more creativity under the new National Disability Strategy
QAI has called for stronger measures to ensure all Australians with disability live as equal members of society under the new National Disability Strategy 2020-2030 (‘the Strategy’).
In a submission to the Department of Social Services, QAI emphasised the need for a more creative approach to implementation than was evident in the previous Strategy. The Strategy is Australia’s primary mechanism for implementing the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. It sets out guiding principles and policy areas where change is needed to improve the lives of people with disability.
“The NDIS cannot continue to divert attention away from the needs of the many people living with disability who do not access the scheme” QAI Director Michelle O’Flynn said today.
Among the suggested changes, QAI has recommended a federal Human Rights Act; the creation of an Office of Disability Strategy to oversee implementation of the Strategy and the use of statements of compatibility when new policies are made.
“Moving into the next decade, the government must think creatively if meaningful change beyond the rhetoric of the Strategy’s goals is to be achieved,” Ms O’Flynn continued. “The Strategy must include tangible changes to policy making that demand disability inclusive practices. Employing people with disability in key decision-making roles is a non-negotiable starting point to this.”
Media contact: Michelle O’Flynn, Director, QAI
Phone: 0481 381 528