Applications open to deliver Leaders for Tomorrow program for people with disability

The Australian Government is encouraging organisations to apply to run a new national leadership program for people with disability.

The Parliamentary Secretary for Disabilities and Carers, Senator Jan McLucas, said applications were open to organisations or consortiums of organisations to deliver the new Leaders for Tomorrow program.

Leaders for Tomorrow is a new national program to help people with disability become leaders in business, the community and government through mentoring and leadership development.

“The successful applicant will develop individual leadership development plans for all participants in the Leaders for Tomorrow program. This may include goal setting, team building, governance, communication, implementing change and problem-solving.”

The program is expected to provide about 200 people with disability with up to 12 months intensive leadership support, including a mentorship program where people work with mentors in their field of interest.

Senator McLucas said the Leaders for Tomorrow program would help equip participants with the tools to become leaders and help them overcome barriers into work and education.

“Leaders for Tomorrow delivers on yet another Gillard Labor Government election commitment and is part of our $11 million accessibility package to support people with disability and their carers participate in community life,” Senator McLucas said.

The accessibility package is being delivered under the National Disability Strategy and also includes the $5 million Accessible Communities Program, which is currently open to local governments to make their communities more accessible for people with disability through minor infrastructure upgrades.

Eligibility criteria and application forms for the Leaders for Tomorrow are available at FaHCSIA website, by calling 1800 668 689 or sending an email to leadersfortomorrow@fahcsia.gov.au

Applications close on 11 March 2011