The Commonwealth, state and territory governments are strengthening the voices of people with disability with six new members appointed to the Advisory Council for Australia’s Disability Strategy 2021-31.
The Council provides independent expert advice to the Disability Reform Ministerial Council on the implementation of Australia’s Disability Strategy.
Australia’s Disability Strategy is the overarching framework for disability policy in Australia, setting out 31 policy priorities for ongoing reform, across 7 key outcome areas.
The Council’s advice will be crucial as all levels of government work to strengthen policies and the disability responsiveness of key service systems in recognition of the findings of the Final Report of the Disability Royal Commission.
Minister for Social Services, Amanda Rishworth highlighted the need for a societal response to remove the barriers faced by people with disability.
“Australia’s Disability Strategy sets out a 10-year vision for us all – communities and community organisations, businesses, and governments – to pave the way for a more inclusive and accessible society,” Minister Rishworth said.
“The Council’s advice plays a key role when disability ministers from states and territories and the federal government convene through the Disability Reform Ministerial Council to progress the Strategy.
“These new appointments will enable the Council to continue its important work, ensuring that governments can work alongside people with lived experience as we continue to implement our commitments under the Strategy.”
Assistant Minister for Social Services, Justine Elliot, attended today’s Council meeting, welcoming new members, and thanking outgoing members for their contribution.
“To deliver better outcomes for people with disability, frameworks like Australia’s Disability Strategy must be grounded in the experience and advice of those affected by them,” Assistant Minister Elliot said.
“It was a pleasure to attend today’s Advisory Council meeting and to learn more about their important work.”
New appointments to the Council are:
Akii Ngo (core member)
Uncle Wilfred Prince (core member)
Kelly Cox (NSW state representative)
Chris Varney (VIC state representative)
Sisaleo Philavong (SA state representative)
Sarah Skopellos (NT territory representative)
Council members include four state and territory disability council representatives appointed on a rolling basis, up to five core members, and a Chair.
Core members are appointed for a period up to 3 years. State and territory representatives are appointed for a period up to 15 months. The current Chair of the Council is Jane Spring AM.
Further information on the role of the Council and its membership can be found on the Disability Gateway website.
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