Minister and Parliamentary Secretary’s Message

A message from the Hon Jenny Macklin MP, Minister for Families, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs, Minister for Disability Reform and Senator the Hon Jan McLucas, Parliamentary Secretary for Disabilities and Carers.

Welcome to the Australian Government’s International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD) website.

As the Minister for Disability Reform and the Parliamentary Secretary for Disabilities and Carers, it is our privilege to be involved in such an important day.

IDPwD promotes the participation of people with disability in society and the goal of full and equal enjoyment of human rights.

Last year, more than 700 events were held around Australia to celebrate IDPwD and the incredible contributions that people with disability make to the Australian community. More than 200 nominations were received for the 2011 National Disability Awards, and nine individuals or organisations were recognised for their outstanding work to improve the lives of people with disability. Information about the Awards finalists and recipients is available on the National Disability Awards page of this website.

The Australian Government is committed to ensuring the contribution of people with disability, their families and carers to our communities is recognised and they are encouraged and supported to participate in work and in the community.

We would like to thank all those who were involved in the 2011 IDPwD and National Disability Awards. In 2012, we hope that even more people will be a part of the celebrations.

We invite all Australians to share in the fun and get involved in activities to support and celebrate IDPwD in 2012.