2011 Finalists

Twenty-one outstanding finalists have been shortlisted for the upcoming 2011 National Disability Awards in recognition of their contributions to the disability sector.

The 21 finalists were selected from more than 200 nominations. Among them are advocates, property developers, builders, educators, business people and for the first time, health and wellbeing providers who have created equal access for people with disability.

The 2011 finalists are:

Minister’s Lifelong Achievement Award – recognises people who have advanced the rights of people with disability over a prolonged period of time.

  • Frank Hall-Bentick, Richmond, VIC
  • Marelle Thornton AM, Sydney, NSW
  • Michael Simpson, Enfield, NSW

Young Disability Challenge Award – recognises young people aged 12-25 years who have advanced the rights of people disability.

  • Katrina Lancaster, Parramatta, NSW
  • Elisha Bramhall, Glenlee, QLD
  • Peter Hall, Ocean Reef, WA

Business Award – recognises organisations that have improved access to employment, or created increased employment opportunities for people with disability.

  • Alcoa Aluminium Smelter – Point Henry, Geelong, VIC
  • Woolworths Ltd, Baulkham Hills, NSW
  • Ai-Media, Macquarie Park, NSW

Local Government Award – recognises work in a community that provides opportunities for full inclusion of people with disability.

  • Mandurah City Council, Mandurah, WA
  • Lismore City Council, Lismore, NSW
  • City of Canada Bay Council, Drummoyne, NSW

Social Inclusion Award – recognises schools, universities, employment and training providers, and advocacy services that have enabled equal participation of people with disability in a range of areas in life.

  • Technical Aid to the Disabled (ACT) Incorporated, Holder, ACT
  • BRACE Education Training Employment, Ballarat West, VIC
  • Personalised Lifestyle Assistance, Boronia, VIC

Inclusive and Accessible Communities Award – recognises work by developers, builders and others in the building sector to create accessible buildings or facilities for people with disability.

  • Housing Choices Australia, Melbourne, VIC
  • Travability, Cardinia, VIC
  • Touched By Olivia Foundation, Drummoyne, NSW

Health and Wellbeing Award – recognises health and wellbeing services that are creating equal access for people with disability.

  • Parks Victoria, Melbourne, VIC
  • Growing Towards Wellness Pty Ltd, Hilton, WA
  • City of Bayswater, Morley, WA

The recipients will be announced at the National Disability Awards Ceremony on Tuesday 22 November 2011 at Parliament House in Canberra.