Finalists announced in 2014 National Disability Awards

Twenty-three outstanding individuals and organisations have been named as finalists in the 2014 National Disability Awards.

They were chosen from more than 200 nominations received across the eight categories of the awards.

Achievements by the finalists include:

• creating inclusive play spaces for children and their families,
• forming a partnership to increase fire safety awareness for the hearing impaired,
• establishing facilities to ensure wheelchair users can be included on cruise tours,
• raising the profile of the unmet needs of Aboriginal people with disability, and
• developing inclusive performing arts.

Senator Mitch Fifield, the Assistant Minister for Social Services, congratulated the 23 finalists.

“These finalists are fine examples of the work being done to improve the lives of people with disability,” Senator Fifield said.

“I commend their commitment to improving the economic and social participation opportunities for people with disability in Australia.”

“Individuals and organisations are working hard across the country every day to ensure people with disability have the same opportunities as all Australians.”

“I’m certain that their work will inspire other individuals and organisations to consider what they can do to break down barriers for people with disability,” Senator Fifield said.

The eight categories of the awards reflect the priorities of the National Disability Strategy 2010-2020. The strategy represents a commitment from all levels of government to deliver a united approach both now and into the future to address the challenges that continue to be faced by people with disability.

All finalists will be invited to attend the national awards event at Parliament House in Canberra on
Tuesday, 25 November.

The National Disability Awards are a major part of celebrations marking the International Day of People with Disability on 3 December each year.

For more information about the finalists visit www.idpwd.com.au or access the latest news via facebook.com/idpwd and twitter.com/IDPwD.

ALL FINALISTS: NATIONAL DISABILITY AWARDS 2014