The abilityNEWS Daily
The Big Story
Dutton’s team changing policy (photo courtesy Guardian Australia)
The Liberal Party changed its policy after one dramatic story
The ability to work from home is a key concern for People with Disability. The Liberal Party has recognised this by abandoning their former policy platform after a dramatic example on the ABC’s Q&A program this week.
Opposition Leader Peter Dutton backtracked from his “attack” on the work-from-home after facing a nationwide backlash. "We made a mistake in relation to this policy, and I think it's important that we say that and recognise it," Dutton now says.
The ABC’s Q&A program this week provided a dramatic example of just how vital the ability to work from home is for People with Disability.
Peter Carnegie is exactly one of those people who unable to work in a traditional, nine-to-five job. His son has a neurodevelopmental disability, dyspraxia, and his wife died last year. He is the quintessential example of the sort of person who does not fit into the traditional mould.
His situation provides a dramatic example of the ripple effect of disability. Caring for the needs of one person, particularly a child, can end up creating massive new challenges for an entire family. It is often extremely difficult to find adequate answers from existing supports.
Speaking on the ABC’s Q&A this week, Carnegie pointed out that caring for his son means he’s fallen through the cracks in accessing employment. Two days later, Opposition Leader Peter Dutton had changed Liberal policy.
That’s the power of a single individual example.
- Melissa Marsden
The Briefing
Dr Dinesh and Chithrani Palipana interview around Women with disability by Dev Singh
by Women With Disabilities Australia
Dr Dinesh Palipana OAM and his mother, Chithrani Palipana, discuss disability advocacy, gender equality, and leadership in a compelling interview. The conversation also highlights challenges faced by women with disabilities, healthcare inclusion, the immigrant experience, and the influence of parental support.
Australian Access Awards Return for 2025!
by Centre For Accessibility Australia
Centre for Accessibility Australia has announced the return of its bi-annual awards in 2025, recognising efforts in digital inclusion. Nominations open on 15 May to coincide with Global Accessibility Awareness Day, marking the event's fourth edition.
Jewishcare Planning and Carer Support Program
This provides information and support to people living with a disability and their carers in the Victorian Jewish community including individual consultations, information on various topics like the NDIS, estate planning and guardianship, and advocacy services.
Help Improve Cinema Accessibility in WA – Share Your Experience!
by Centre For Accessibility Australia
Curtin University’s enAble Institute and Ability WA are studying cinema experiences of people with disabilities in Western Australia. The project seeks insight into obstacles faced and invites individuals and carers to contribute through surveys or interviews.
Nintendo Switch 2 Brings Promising Accessibility Upgrades.
by Centre For Accessibility Australia
Nintendo has revealed new features for the upcoming Switch 2 aimed at improving inclusion for a broader range of players. The console adds a customisable screen reader, ergonomic controllers, and enhanced display and communication settings.
The Wrap
The Diary
All Abilities Friend Matching Event (ages 18-30)
Hosted by Mingle Co, this is a paid social event designed to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all individuals with disabilities. What to expect: each guest has a brief one-on-one conversation with potential friends to identify those with whom a friendship could develop. You will be given a clipboard to write the other guests names, all guests will rotate around the tables to have the opportunity to meet everyone.
Date: 3 May 2025
Location: 128 Prospect Road Prospect (SA)
Time: 7:00 PM to 10:30 PM
NDIS Recent Changes: Applying for the NDIS with Autism & ADHD
WWDACT and Nick Avery from South West Autism Network are hosting a free online and in-person workshop covering the recent NDIS changes from October 2024. The sessions will cover information on supports available and application requirements for the NDIS for individuals with autism and ADHD.
Date: Online 16 April 2025 (In person - 17 April)
Location: Online (In person - Yass Community Centre NSW)
Time: Online 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM (In person - 1:30 PM to 3:30 PM)
Multicultural Disability Expo 2025
The Multicultural Disability Expo 2025 is an inclusive event designed to connect, empower, and invite people of all abilities and backgrounds to share experiences, gain knowledge, and access essential support services. From interactive exhibits to engaging workshops, this event is designed to bring together individuals, families, carers, professionals, and organisations dedicated to supporting diverse people with disabilities.
Date: 24 April 2025 (also on 26 November 2025)
Location: Stirling Leisure Community Centres, 1 Light St Dianella (WA)
Time: 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM
