International Day of People with Disability

Celebrations will occur throughout Australia this weekend to mark 2011 International Day of People with Disability.

December 3 marks International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD), a United Nations sanctioned day that unites people around the world in celebrating the achievements and contributions of people with disability.

“International Day of People with Disability is an opportunity to recognise the contributions made by people with disability to our local community and to be inspired by their achievements,” Minister for Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs, Jenny Macklin said.

Minister Macklin said 2011 has been a significant year for disability in Australia.

“In August this year our government received and released the Productivity Commission’s much anticipated report into disability care and support.

“The Gillard Government started work immediately to lay the foundations for a National Disability Insurance Scheme. We are working with the states and territories to lay the foundations for reform by mid-2013 – a year ahead of the timeline set out by the Productivity Commission.

“This year’s IDPwD is a great time to recognise the hard work done by many people across the country over many years to get to this point.”

Parliamentary Secretary for Disabilities and Carers, Jan McLucas said there are countless stories of inspiration from across the country.

“People with disability are achieving great things day-in day-out in our communities, overcoming obstacles and making a difference. International Day of People with Disability is about celebrating their achievements and engaging with the broader community,” Senator McLucas said.

“December 3 is an important day in our community calendar so I encourage Australians to be part of IDPwD celebrations which are happening in communities right across the country.

Established in 1992, the annual event aims to build awareness of disability issues and of the important role people with disability have in their local communities, their country and internationally.

Disability organisations, businesses, governments and communities will unite to promote an understanding of disability issues and mobilise support for the dignity, rights and wellbeing of people with disability.

The theme for this year’s IDPwD is Together for a better world for all: Including persons with disabilities in development.

To find out what’s happening in your area and more information about International Day of People with Disability, please visit www.idpwd.com.au or ring 1800 440 385.