Media Release by The Hon Bill Shorten MP

Nominate someone remarkable for the 2009 National Disability Awards

Joint Media Release with:

  • The Hon Jenny Macklin MP, Minister for Families Housing Community Services and Indigenous Affairs

Nominations are now open for the 2009 National Disability Awards.

, Jenny Macklin and Parliamentary Secretary for Disabilities and Children’s Services, Bill Shorten, have announced the opening of nominations and encouraged all Australians to nominate someone remarkable for an award.

Ms Macklin said the National Disability Awards celebrate and acknowledge the achievements and the contribution made by people with disability to our community, and recognise those who have contributed to the disability sector.

“If you know someone who has worked to raise awareness of disability issues, to make a real difference to the lives of others, tell us about their achievements by nominating them for an award,” Ms Macklin said.

Mr Shorten said this year the scope of the Award categories has been broadened to better recognise the diverse nature of contributions made by, and for, people with disability including in business and employment.

“The Awards will not only recognise and value the excellent work being done by people with disability, but will now acknowledge the efforts of service providers who create opportunities for people with disability,” Mr Shorten said.

All Australians can nominate someone in one of the five award categories:

  • Minister’s Lifelong Achievement Award – A person, over 25 years of age, with or without disability who has demonstrated a sustained and extraordinary personal commitment to improving and/or reshaping the lives of people with disability.
  • Disability Rights Young Leader Award – A young person, 12-25 years of age, with disability who has raised awareness and shown outstanding leadership in improving the lives of people with disability.
  • Business Award – A person with or without disability who has displayed an innovative approach and achieved substantial outcomes in advancing the lives of people with disability such as transport, housing, communication and technology. No age limit.
  • Local Government Award – A person who has challenged or lobbied, and has succeeded in implementing substantial change by breaking down barriers faced by people with disability. No age limit.
  • Social Inclusion Award – A person who has worked towards a more inclusive environment by creating opportunities for people with disability to participate in areas such as sport, the arts, education and the wider community. No age limit.

“Last year’s Awards generated a great response, with over 240 nominations. This year we hope to receive even more nominations,” Mr Shorten said.

“An independent judging panel will assess the nominations, and finalists will travel to the award ceremony to be held in Canberra on Monday 23 November 2009.”

Nominations close 22 May. Further information about the awards can be found at the International Day of People with Disability website (www.idpwd.com.au) or by calling 1800 440 385.