Queenslanders with a disability have their voices heard

[singlepic id=405 w=320 h=240 float=left] Queenslanders with a disability, sector stakeholders and members of the public will have the opportunity to discuss the way disability services are delivered in Queensland at a public forum in Cairns today hosted by Senator Jan McLucas, Parliamentary Secretary for Disabilities and Carers.

Minister for Disability Services Curtis Pitt said the forum provided an opportunity for the State Government to discuss developments towards the launch of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and a complementary National Injury Insurance Scheme (NIIS) in Queensland.

“It is of national importance that the long-term needs of people with a disability, their families and carers are met with the right support at the right time,” he said.

“I recently attended the first Select Council on Disability Reform meeting in Sydney to discuss the way forward for a NDIS with my ministerial colleagues in the Commonwealth and in other states and territories.

“I look forward to continuing to work closely with the Australian Government and other states and territories on the foundations for this scheme.”

Mr Pitt said the Queensland Government had provided its in-principle support for the Commission’s final report on the scheme.

“However the NDIS is still very much in the planning stage and Queensland has undertaken to carefully consider the report and the Commonwealth’s proposals,” he said.

“Put simply, this scheme is about ensuring that Australia’s most vulnerable people are able to live the best possible lives, and in doing so, that people can exercise choice and control over their supports.

“It is about ensuring that carers, parents, relatives and friends can have peace of mind — in the knowledge that we will have a disability support system that works.

“It is historic work that we are doing here and I am determined to ensure we get the best outcome for Queenslanders.

People with a disability, their families and carers can now find information on government supports and services at www.qld.gov.au/disability