The abilityNEWS Daily
The Big Story
A school in Kenya supported by US Aid in 2018
Trump’s cuts to US Aid hitting disability hard
It’s the end of an era of US generosity and support for not just People with Disability, but also government in emerging countries.
Author’s Note
We’re really glad to welcome you back to this draft of our new newsletter that will be going out live next week.
All the best,
Nic
The Briefing
New MS research harnessing the brain’s healing power
by Multiple Sclerosis Australia
MS Australia has announced a $5.7 million research investment, including a project aiming to repair myelin damage in multiple sclerosis. Led by Dr Jessica Fletcher, the research targets myelin-producing cells to enhance the brain’s natural healing ability and develop safer treatments.
Cerebral Palsy Alliance Joins Forces with Northcott and Afford to Form 'Disability Inclusion Dream Team' at Sydney Mardi Gras
by Cerebral Palsy Alliance
Cerebral Palsy Alliance, Northcott, and Afford united for Sydney Mardi Gras, celebrating disability inclusion with a vibrant ‘Free to Fly’ float. Participants, including ambassador Elly Desmarchelier, embraced LGBTQIA+ pride, showcasing intersectionality and disabled representation in one of the world's most renowned parades.
Join our upcoming webinar – “Protecting your rights at work”
by Disability Employment Australia
People with disability can face unfair treatment at work, making it essential to understand workplace rights and protections. A webinar featuring ACTU's Joseph Mitchell will explore unions' role in safeguarding fair conditions, pay, and safety.
PWDA will be ‘Proud and Free to be Me’ at the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade
by People with Disability Australia
People with Disability Australia will march in the 2025 Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade under the theme "Proud and Free to be Me." The group seeks visibility, equality, and self-determination for LGBTQIA+ people with disability, advocating for full inclusion in all aspects of life.
Government Aviation White Paper is yet to address the challenges faced by air travellers with disability
by Physical Disability Australia
A Melbourne family’s struggle to secure appropriate seating for their disabled child highlights inconsistent airline policies on disability support. Advocates urge national reforms as the federal government’s Aviation White Paper fails to address accessibility challenges for air travellers with disabilities.
The Wrap
'Stripped to our bare bones': three years on from the floods, Lismore's housing crisis is worse than ever
by The Guardian
Three years after devastating floods in Lismore destroyed 4,000 homes, the housing crisis has intensified. Residents like Chris Gurr and his son, who lost their rental home, face potential homelessness as government buybacks of temporary housing proceed slowly, exacerbating community tensions and highlighting systemic inefficiencies.
'The pain is indescribable – the truck stopped on top of me'
by The Courier-Mail
In 2000, Clare Stewart experienced a catastrophic accident when she was pinned under a garbage truck for 37 minutes, resulting in severe leg injuries. Despite enduring 37 operations and constant pain, Stewart has transformed her misfortune into a mission, currently serving as CEO of Youngcare, a not-for-profit organisation that provides appropriate living accommodations and support for young people with disabilities.
NT scholarships aim to tackle GP shortage
by The Courier-Mail
To address the shortage of general practitioners in the Northern Territory, four scholarships have been introduced to encourage medical trainees to work in remote communities. These scholarships focus on excellence in medicine, Indigenous health, paediatrics, and rural practice, aiming to improve healthcare services in underserved areas.