The abilityNEWS Daily
The Big Story
Now what? (photo courtesy The Australian)
What do you do when you’ve gained what you always wanted?
It’s no snub to Anthony Albanese to point out that he didn’t win so much as Peter Dutton lost. The point is he won big time. Albanese secured victory on a scale exceeding Gough Whitlam, Bob Hawke, Paul Keating, Kevin Rudd, or Julia Gillard - indeed any Labor leader back to John Curtin in the middle of World War 2.
The question now is what he does with this victory. Will he use his dominance to carve out a new vision for Australia or continue pursuing marginal and incremental changes? And when will the hubris that always consumes successful Prime Minister’s begin eating away at his personality so he looses the virtues that created that success?
The only hint of what this term offers so far has come from Treasurer Jim Chalmers. Straight after the scale of the victory was apparent he insisted that this term would be about productivity first and combatting inflation second (a reversal of previous priorities).
He, like many others in Labor, is urging Albanese to seize this fleeting opportunity to create a new future for the country.
The next question is what shape will this take? Chalmers’ focus on productivity is great - but it’s worth understanding what this means for disability care.
It’s notoriously difficult to boost productivity in the sector. This represents a challenge and it’s unrealistic to expect that everything will just be allowed to go on as before.
The original architect of the NDIS, Bill Shorten, has now left parliament and the new government won’t be tied to its current settings. Growth rates exceeding inflation will no longer be tolerated and even from within Labor the whispers of the need for significant change are growing louder.
It would be a significant mistake to think this new reform drive will leave the disability sector untouched.
The Briefing
Hunsa Amani’s Dilemma
Hunsa Amani (courtesy Youth Disability Advocacy Service)
Where Identities Meet: Belonging at the Intersections
by Women With Disabilities Australia
WDV Youth Expert Husna Amani, as a young, person of colour (POC) who is also a woman, Muslim, and disabled, explores the meaning of belonging for those with multiple marginalised identities. The blog questions whether true inclusion is possible within single communities or across intersecting identities.
CYDA calls on renewed government to deliver lasting change
by Children and Young People with Disability Australia
CYDA has urged the newly re-elected Albanese Government to prioritise meaningful reform for children and young people with disability. The organisation says the election result presents a key moment to address long-standing challenges faced by families and caregivers.
Attention employers wanting to work with people with Down syndrome!
by Down Syndrome Australia
Down Syndrome Victoria is encouraging employers to create inclusive workplaces by offering opportunities to workers with Down syndrome. They provide tailored support, awareness training, and ongoing assistance to ensure successful employment outcomes.
Blind Citzens News - a magazine for Blind People
by Blind Citizens Australia
Blind Australians have historically lacked a dedicated space to share information, experiences and aspirations within their community. The National Federation of Blind Citizens launched this magazine to strengthen communication and representation among its members.
Samsung Prioritises Accessibility with AI-Powered Solutions.
by Centre For Accessibility Australia
Samsung has introduced artificial intelligence features and product design changes to improve usability for people with diverse needs. These updates, developed with input from experts and staff teams, reflect the firm’s focus on inclusive technology.
The Wrap
Labor minister intervenes to back union in gender pay case
by The Australian
Workplace Relations Minister Murray Watt has pledged support for the Australian Services Union in a significant gender pay case. The case involves proposed restructuring under the SCHADS award, which could lead to pay cuts for some social workers, including those in disability services.
Political cynicism and Band-Aid solutions miss key failures in our sickly health system
by The Australian
Dr. Mei Ling Doery critiques Australia's healthcare system for its reactive nature and insufficient investment in preventive care and mental health, areas crucial for individuals with disabilities. She emphasizes the need for structural reforms over temporary fixes to address systemic issues.
Empowering NDIS participants on employment journey
by Dairy News Australia
The article highlights initiatives aimed at supporting NDIS participants in gaining employment, focusing on skill development and workplace integration. It showcases success stories of individuals who have transitioned into meaningful employment through these programs.
Innovative housing and person-centred care at The Cram Foundation
by Illawarra Mercury
The Cram Foundation has implemented innovative housing solutions and person-centred care approaches for individuals with disabilities, enhancing their quality of life and independence. The organization emphasizes tailored support services to meet the unique needs of each participant.
ConnectAbility helping Lynn find strength and independence
by Newcastle Herald
ConnectAbility's merger with Early Links has expanded support services for individuals with disabilities, including supported independent living and various therapies. The article features Lynn's journey towards greater independence through these comprehensive services.
Disability & WorkAbility Expo offers world of possibilities
by Newcastle Herald
The expo provides a platform for individuals with disabilities to connect with inclusive employers and participate in workshops aimed at enhancing job readiness. Attendees had opportunities to engage directly with service providers and gain insights into employment pathways.
The Diary
