A message from the Disability Alliance
Mr Howard and Mr Rudd, it is time to end Australia’s disability disgrace.
The Disability Alliance represents a broad network of Australians concerned about the ongoing neglect and social exclusion of Australians with disabilities. We are calling for a 20% increase in current Commonwealth funding and a commitment to full annual indexation.
A significant increase in funding for disability should allow for the following:
1. National Leadership
The Disability Alliance calls for full implementation of the 29 recommendations from the multi-partisan Senate report, Funding and operation of the Commonwealth State/Territory Disability Agreement.
2. Funding for Individuals and Families
The current disability system is driven by crisis rather than proactive leadership. The Disability Alliance challenges national leaders to produce a whole-of-government plan for seamless and transparent funding for Australians with a disability, which respects every Australian’s right to self determination.
3. Income Support
Australian citizens should not be plunged into major debt or poverty because they have a disability. The Disability Alliance is calling on national leaders to outline how they will address income support and employment issues for people with a disability.
4. Workforce Development for the Disability Sector
Many disability support workers earn less caring for a human being than working on a production line. As a result, workforce issues are emerging as a major problem for the disability sector. The Disability Alliance challenges national leaders to outline their plan to strengthen the disability labour market so that support for people with disability and their families is not compromised.
5. Advocacy, Protection and Human Rights
The ongoing abuse and neglect of Australia’s most vulnerable citizens continues to disgrace the entire nation. The Disability Alliance demands resources for independent advocacy and human rights watchdogs to protect vulnerable Australians.
6. Social Participation
Australia is enriched by the diverse contributions of all of its citizens, yet many Australians are excluded from participating. The Disability Alliance demands national leadership to develop no-gaps legislation that provides equitable access to Australia’s goods, services, information and community facilities for all Australians.