New direction for ethnic disability services

Today’s release of the National Ethnic Disability Alliance’s (NEDA) innovative strategic plan sets out its future direction in supporting people with a disability from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

The Minister for Family and Community Services, Senator Kay Patterson, today officially launched NEDA’s Strategic Directions 2008, as part of the
10th anniversary of the national peak organisation.

“As many families with a member with a disability often isolate themselves from the community, this plan will assist NEDA in providing advice and representation for their clients to improve their wellbeing and reconnect them to their community,” Senator Patterson said.

“Representing the interests of people with disabilities from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, NEDA contributes to Government policies and delivers information between the Government and the community on social policy issues.

“NEDA is funded under the Howard Government’s National Secretariat Program, which provides financial support to peak bodies contributing to government policies affecting families and communities.

“For the year 2005-06, NEDA will receive $138,869 under the Program, assisting them to continue their invaluable role in communities throughout Australia.

“It is important all Australians have the opportunity to fully participate in the community and this plan is another strategic step in the right direction,” Senator Patterson said.