Page 5561 - Week 15 - Wednesday, 9 December 2009
Next page . . . . Previous page . . . . Speeches . . . . Contents . . . . Debates(HTML) . . . . PDF . . . . Video
intake system will be established for homelessness services, and a common waiting list will be established for public and community housing. I am happy to provide briefings if you require further information.
Disability services—wheelchair access
MS BURCH: Also yesterday there was at question time a deep and meaningful question from Mr Doszpot and from Mr Coe with a supplementary question in relation to the 2009 International Day of People with a Disability, the breakfast held at the botanic gardens. In response to that question, I said I would come back.
The government is committed to social inclusion of people with a disability. In addition to programs such as people, place and prosperity, a policy for sustainability in the ACT, government agencies are introducing the concept of sustainability to their programs and operations. Two of the guiding principles are of particular relevance to Disability ACT—that is, empowering people and engaging the community. This policy acknowledges that people with disabilities who attend events represent a diverse range of community interests and may include employees or employers, board members, advocates, parents and carers, and potential, existing or past consumers of services. It also recognises that people with disabilities may participate, facilitate or present at these events.
These policies are designed to maximise equity of access for all people with disabilities. With this in mind, and relating to the event in question, Disability ACT staff attended the venue to discuss a range of disability issues—for example, access issues, physical access and a hearing loop. They also used a disability accessibility checklist to ensure that the venue was accessible for the event. It is worth noting that the event was held at the cafe at the National Botanic Gardens. This venue is wheelchair accessible and it has designated disabled parking.
In relation to Mr Coe’s supplementary question on DHCS policy, the public consultations, forums and access guide are available on the intranet, and copies can be provided on request. But, so those opposite do not have too much of a challenge to find it, I am happy to table the guide for Mr Coe and Mr Doszpot. I present the following paper:
Public Consultations and Forums Access Guidelines, prepared by the Department of Disability, Housing and Community Services, dated April 2005—Answer to questions without notice asked by Mr Doszpot and Mr Coe and taken on notice on 8 December 2009.
Justice and Community Safety—Standing Committee
Scrutiny report 17
MRS DUNNE (Ginninderra): I present the following report:
Justice and Community Safety—Standing Committee (performing the duties of a Scrutiny of Bills and Subordinate Legislation Committee)—Scrutiny Report 17, dated 9 December 2009, together with the relevant minutes of proceedings.
I seek leave to make a statement.
Next page . . . . Previous page . . . . Speeches . . . . Contents . . . . Debates(HTML) . . . . PDF . . . . Video