Media Release by The Hon Jane Prentice MP

National Disability Strategy Second Implementation Plan drives action for improved outcomes

Joint Media Release with:

  • Assistant Minister for Disability Services
    The Hon. Jane Prentice

    • The Hon Christian Porter MP, Minister for Social Services
    • The Hon Jane Prentice MP, Assistant Minister for Social Services and Disability Services

Improving the lives of people with disability is the focus of the Second Implementation Plan, Driving Action 2015-2018, released today under the National Disability Strategy.

Minister for Social Services, Christian Porter, said the National Disability Strategy represents a commitment by all levels of government, industry and the community to a unified, national approach to policy and program development.

“The Second Implementation Plan reaffirms our commitment to improving outcomes for people with disability across the Strategy’s six outcome areas: inclusive and accessible communities; rights protection, justice and legislation; economic security; personal and community support; learning and skills; and health and wellbeing,” he said.

“The National Disability Strategy looks beyond the provision of disability-specific supports to ensure that broader community and mainstream services and facilities that are part of everyday Australian life are available and fully accessible for people with disability.”

The Second Implementation Plan is one of three plans over the life of the 10-year Strategy to 2020 and builds on the actions of the first, Laying the Groundwork 2011-2014.

Assistant Minister for Disability Services, Jane Prentice, said all Australians, including those with disability, should have full access to mainstream programs and services available in areas such as health, education, employment, transport, public facilities and infrastructure.

“It is important that all governments reinvigorate their efforts to ensure our service systems are inclusive and provide opportunity for people with disability to participate in the everyday life of their communities,” she said.

“This is particularly important as we move towards a full scheme National Disability Insurance Scheme.

“While much has been done to improve outcomes for people with disability during the life of the Strategy, we know there is still a long way to go. Responsibility for bringing about change in responses and attitudes to disability belongs to everyone in our community.”

More information on the Second Implementation Plan, Driving Change 2015-2018 is available on the DSS website.