The abilityNEWS Daily
The Big Story
Clare O’Neil and Michael Sukkar (courtesy NPC)
Solution to the housing crisis needs more than Bricks and Mortar
One of the problems with the housing debate so far is that it’s been relentlessly focused on homeowners. For many people with disability buying a house is simply not an achievable goal. The problem with affordable housing is managing to find a place to rent.
A lack of supply of accessible housing simply compounds the problem.
Advocacy for Inclusion’s Craig Wallace is doubtful about the effectiveness of the political solutions being advocated by politicians.
“What we really need is affordable public and social housing controlled by the community sector”, he says, “tightly targeted at people on low incomes”.
He also advocates assistance to people on medium incomes, but only those who “have significant barriers to entry because of lack of accessibility and affordability”. This is, of course, very different from the way both parties are targeting their policies.
Liberal and Labor are focused on appealing to swinging voters in marginal seats. This sees an increase in the total number of dwellings as a way of finding a solution to the housing crisis.
There is less concern about either accessibility or providing rental accommodation, although the current government has made a big play of its moves to increase the amount of social housing.
Wallace is, however, scathing.
“People with disability are caught in a dual housing supply and affordability crisis,” he says. “The National Housing and Homelessness Plan has not adequately prioritised this.”
Author’s Note
Journalists in the news business sometimes say “there’s not much news happening today”. Of course there’s always news. What they really mean is that what’s going on doesn’t fit the mainstream news agenda.
Our lead story today by Melissa Marsden reveals how this works.
The politicians are understandably focused on winning votes. They want stories about their policies to reach first-time house buyers, because they think these people will switch their votes.
The problem is this strategy ignores other demographics, such as those who can’t afford to buy a house. This group includes many People with Disability. That’s exactly why our lead story deals with the choices they’re facing as we head toward the vote.
Enjoy the day. Nic Stuart, editor
The Briefing
Photo courtesy NDSP Plan Managers
Down Syndrome Victoria is looking for two people with Down syndrome to join the Advisory Network
by Down Syndrome Australia
Down Syndrome Victoria is seeking two adults with Down syndrome to contribute to its Advisory Network. The roles involve paid, casual participation in advocacy, events and advising on issues affecting the Down syndrome community.
Using your NDIS budget for improved learning
by NDSP Plan Managers
Improved Learning is a category in the NDIS Capacity Building budget that supports participants to achieve study or training goals. It funds disability-related supports for further education but doesn’t cover standard course costs or general learning expenses.
Inquiry into Supported Employment – Can You Help?
by Women With Disabilities Australia
The federal government is reviewing employment options for people with disability who need significant support in the workplace. Women with Disabilities Victoria is collecting input from women and gender diverse people to inform their submission.
Putting First Peoples disability on the Election Agenda
by First Peoples Disability Network
The First Peoples Disability Network is urging political parties to prioritise Indigenous Australians with disability as the election approaches. They are advocating for nine commitments to improve living standards, culturally safe services and inclusion within national policy. Neither political leader has so far visited a First Nations community as they have flown across the country campaigning.
From research to reality: HABIT-ILE program for preschoolers
by Cerebral Palsy Alliance
Researchers have developed HABIT-ILE, a play-based therapy programme designed to improve motor skills in preschoolers with cerebral palsy. The approach is now being trialled in community settings to bridge the gap between clinical research and early childhood care.
The Wrap
NDIS recipient asked to prove prosthetic leg is a permanent disability
by Nine's A Current Affair
Adam Kupics has had a prosthetic leg for more than a decade. He says since being on the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), funding changed his life for the better. But since sweeping changes were brought into the scheme, his plan was updated and his funding slashed by more than $30,000, taking away his most basic needs.
The Diary
Inclusive Zoo Adventure for NDIS participants
Join Tibii and CBS Inc. for a fun day at Adelaide Zoo specially designed for people with disabilities (NDIS Participants). Grab tickets for a day filled with exciting animal encounters and interactive exhibits for all ages.
Date: 15 May 2025
Location: Adelaide Zoo, Plane Tree Drive, Adelaide (SA)
Time: 10 AM to 3 PM