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Legislative Assembly for the ACT: 2004 Week 09 Hansard (Thursday, 19 August 2004) . . Page.. 3930 ..

Challenge 2014 incorporates aspirations to which everyone in the community can relate. They include equality, equity, freedom of access, self-determination, safety, inclusion, and representation. The government is committed to the values outlined in Challenge 2014, a joint community-government initiative that forms part of the ongoing journey towards improving the lives of people with disabilities in Canberra.

The ACT government has responded to Challenge 2014 through its strategic plan Future directions: A framework for the ACT 2004-2008. The Disability Advisory Council has endorsed Challenge 2014 and will provide me with feedback. This policy framework will form the basis of a more collaborative, coordinated and holistic approach to supporting people with disabilities and assisting them to realise their visions and rights.

Improving the lives of people with disabilities requires individuals, people with disabilities, government, community, service providers, carers and families united in a shared vision for disability services. That is why the government consulted extensively with key stakeholders to develop its future directions plan. That document encompasses not only a statement of the government’s commitment to addressing the support and needs that have been identified but also includes a series of specific actions that are being undertaken.

The plan outlines our vision for disability services over the next four years. It focuses on four strategic directions: to influence policy and culture to promote an inclusive society; to strengthen the capacity of people with disabilities, their families and carers to maximise control over their lives; to improve planning and use of available funding to meet the needs of people requiring ongoing support; and, in partnership with the community sector, to strengthen the sustainability and responsiveness of the service delivery sector.

The government is committed to implementing the strategic plan and maintaining consultation with everyone. Ongoing monitoring and assessment will determine the success of the plan and future priorities. This government is committed to supporting people with disabilities to realise their visions. That commitment can only be successful if we have the involvement of the whole community. I believe that we are off to a good start with the future directions plan. I commend these documents to the Assembly and to the wider community.

School crossings and traffic issues at school, childcare and older persons’ facilities

Paper and statement by minister

MR WOOD (Minister for Disability, Housing and Community Services, Minister for Urban Services, Minister for Police and Emergency Services, Minister for Arts and Heritage, and Acting Minister for Health) (3.15): For the information of members, I present the following paper:

Review of school crossings and traffic issues at schools, child care and older persons’ facilities—Government response, pursuant to the resolution of the Assembly of 11 February 2004, as amended 1 July 2004, dated July 2004.

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