Disability, Discussion, Debate: New disability website unveiled
A lively new website will provide a space for discussion, news, debate, humour and general information for people with disability, their families and people working in the sector.
Parliamentary Secretary for Disabilities and Carers, Senator Jan McLucas, today launched the new Ramp Up website, an initiative by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, funded by the Australian Government.
The website is being launched as part of celebrations for the United Nations’ International Day of People with Disability.
“Whether you live with a disability, have a family member or friend living with disability, work in the sector or just want to get a better understanding of disability issues, Ramp Up will be a lively community space in which to learn more and have a say,” Senator McLucas said.
The Australian Government is investing $557,500 over three years to support the website. The funding is part of the Including People with Disability in Community Life initiative.
Senator Stephen Conroy, Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, said Ramp Up would add another interesting and relevant element to the ABC’s range of products and programs.
“The ABC is a much loved public institution and it is wonderful to see their online presence boosted with this innovative website which will provide important and useful information.”
Ramp Up will include material developed for the website by the ABC, as well as blogs, opinion articles and features that explore issues that affect people living with a disability. It will also provide an important space for community discussion.
The site will also draw on relevant ABC content from across ABC Television, Radio, News and Online.
“The site provides a forum for people with disability and their families and friends to connect, while at the same time providing a space for the wider community to learn more about disability issues,” Senator McLucas said.
The ABC has appointed passionate disability advocate Stella Young to be editor of Ramp Up.
Stella Young worked for Arts Access as a Communications Coordinator, and appeared in Australia’s first disability issues show ‘No Limits’.
She has been a member of the Victorian Disability Advisory Council and a spokesperson for the Youth Disability Advocacy Service.
Ms Young was the National Disability Awards Master of Ceremonies in 2009 and 2010.
“Stella’s enthusiasm, creativity and sharp wit will be a great asset to this wonderful new website,” Senator McLucas said.
The Australian Government is committed to ensuring that people with disability are able to fulfil their potential.
Ramp Up can be viewed at http://abc.net.au/rampup