Government Invites Stakeholder Comment

The Rudd Government has sought stakeholder views on the rights of persons with disabilities.

The Government has invited over 200 non-government organisations and industry representatives to participate in a consultation on the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

“The Convention is a valuable international instrument aimed at eliminating discrimination against people with disability,” Attorney-General Robert McClelland said.

“The purpose of the Convention is to promote, protect and ensure the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms for all people with disability, and to promote respect for their inherent dignity.”

“This consultation will assist the government to make an informed decision on what steps would be required to make Australian Laws and practices consistent with the Convention.”

The consultation is also opened to people with disability and the broader community with the launch of the consultation website.

Parliamentary Secretary for Disabilities and Children’s Services, Bill Shorten, also expressed his commitment to the consultation process.

“We are keen to continue working with the disability sector to help build opportunities for Australians with disabilities,” Mr Shorten said.

“Australia was among the first to sign the Convention when it was opened for signature on 30 March 2007.”

For more information on the consultation and the Convention, visit the consultation website.