Barnaby Joyce people with disability

Celebrating people with disability in New England

Local schools, community groups and workplaces across New England are being encouraged to celebrate International Day of People with Disability on 3 December this year.

Deputy Prime Minister and Member for New England, Barnaby Joyce said it was more important than ever to help break down barriers for people with disability and ensure that everyone can participate in all aspects of life.

“This year the Grow Inclusion schools competition is back as a way for teachers and students to incorporate conversations about disability in the classroom and showcase what they are doing to help make their school and our community more inclusive,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.

“There are also some changes to the competition to make sure every student can participate, whether they are in the classroom or remote learning from home, to help us ensure all Australians with disability feel valued and included.”

Minister for Families and Social Services Anne Ruston said the day is an important opportunity to celebrate the contributions Australians with disability make.

“As we saw at the Paralympics, people with disability can achieve almost anything they put their minds to and our focus should be on the ability and capability of each and every person,” Minister Ruston said.

“International Day of People with Disability is an opportunity for us all to come together to recognise Australians with disability, whether that be our family, friends, co-workers, neighbours or members of our local community.”

Former International Day of People with Disability Patron Kurt Fearnley AO also urged local schools to get involved on the day.

“Talking about disability in schools and educating kids about inclusion is important as it helps them to understand that people with disability are impacted by the barriers that exist in our society,” Kurt said.

“By building this understanding from a young age, we can help change people’s attitudes and behaviours and help grow inclusion for all of our community.”

To watch Kurt’s video message for schools, go to https://youtu.be/G0Ln7efGBDQ            

To enter the Grow Inclusion schools competition, go to www.idpwd.com.au/growinclusion

To register an event, go to www.idpwd.com.au/events/event-registrations