Media Release by The Hon Larry Anthony MP

Businesses urged to nominate for PM’s awards

Australian businesses have been urged to nominate for the inaugural Prime Minister’s Access Awards by Minister for Community Services Larry Anthony.

“These awards recognise the initiative of leading businesses and organisations that provide or plan to provide excellent access and employment opportunities for people with disabilities,” said Mr Anthony.

“For the first time the awards will incorporate the Prime Minister’s Gold Medal Access Awards and the highly successful Prime Minister’s Employer of the Year Awards,” Minister Anthony said.

“The two programs have joined forces to illustrate the Government’s commitment to improving employment opportunities and access for people with disabilities.

“Our major sponsors, Telstra and Qantas, The Australian newspaper and the Canberra Parkroyal Hotel, have been instrumental in supporting this initiative.

“This year we also welcome the support of leading employer and business organisations in all States and Territories,” said Mr Anthony.

The Prime Minister’s Employer of the Year Awards recognise businesses that employ people with disabilities, demonstrating that a disability is no barrier to a successful and productive working life.

“People with disabilities have an excellent record in attendance, work safety, company loyalty and retention rates. Providing employment opportunities for people with disabilities simply makes good business sense,” Mr Anthony said.

“One in five Australians have a disability and improving access for these people will result in economic, commercial and social benefits for us all. Businesses are beginning to realise that this is an untapped market.”

Nominations for the Prime Minister’s Access Awards close on Friday, September 29. The Prime Minister will personally congratulate the winners at an awards ceremony at Parliament House, Canberra in November this year.

Nomination forms are available from business associations, disability employment and advocacy groups, on the internet at www.facs.gov.au, or by calling 1800 677 253.