- Cook Government is
funding 105 inclusive events and activities to celebrate International Day
of People with Disability
- The United
Nations-sanctioned day is celebrated on December 3 every year
- This year's theme
is 'My Life, Our Community', acknowledging that everyone has the right to
make their own decisions
Minister for Disability
Services Don Punch has announced more than $100,000 in funding has been awarded
to 98 community organisations for 105 inclusive events and activities to mark International Day of People with
Disability (IDPwD) 2023.
Celebrated on December 3 every year, the United
Nations-sanctioned day aims to increase public awareness, understanding and acceptance of
people with disability, and celebrate their achievements and contributions.
Western Australia's theme for IDPwD in 2023 is 'My Life,
Our Community', which acknowledges that everyone has the right to make
decisions for their life. The theme also highlights the value and importance of
everyone having the opportunity to be involved and play an active role within
their community.
The IDPWD grants program, funded by Department of Communities and
administered by Developmental Disability WA, allocated between $500 and $1000
to organisations to host inclusive events and activities during the week of
December 3.
Highlights of this year's grants program across the metropolitan area
include a catwalk show and model photoshoot for people with disability at WA
Museum Boola Bardip hosted by Circular and Wearable Art, a wheelchair
basketball session in Cannington and an equestrian event hosted by Riding for
the Disabled Association Inc WA.
In the regions, there will be an inclusive day with hands-on encounters
with snakes, lizards and ferrets hosted by Ranger Red's Zoo & Conservation
Park in Pinjarra, a ballroom dancing performance in Bunbury and an inclusive bingo
event in Katanning to name a few.
The Cook Government is committed to building a more inclusive WA, where
people with disability are engaged and able to live as they choose in a
community where everyone has equitable opportunities and outcomes in all areas
of life.
A Western Australia for Everyone: State Disability Strategy 2020-2030'
(the Strategy) sets the foundation for building a more inclusive WA, empowering
people with disability to participate meaningfully in all parts of society and
to have the resources to do so.
Comments
attributed to Disability Services Minister Don Punch:
"It's estimated that 411,500 Western Australians live with disability -
that's one in every five people across our State.
"The Cook Government's support of International Day of People with
Disability is an important part of building inclusive communities.
"These events and activities are sure to be a fun, inclusive and
accessible celebration of International Day of People with Disability."
