MEDIA RELEASE: QDN 2019 Federal Election Platform
Queenslanders with Disability Network (QDN) has today released its 2019 Federal Election Platform, which includes seven key priority areas that impact upon the lives of people with disability. We are seeking commitments from candidates in relation to the recommendations under each of the priority areas. Our seven election platform priorities are:
- National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)
- Royal Commission into violence, abuse, exploitation and neglect of people with disability
- Housing
- Transport
- Health
- Employment
- National Disability Agreement and National Disability Strategy
Nigel Webb, QDN Board of Directors Chairperson said “QDN’s federal election platform focuses on the responsibility of the Australian Government in delivering and funding essential accessible, affordable and quality government and community mainstream services to people with disability”. This includes its critical role in leading full inclusion and participation of people with disability in economic, social, civic and cultural spheres of life”.
People with disability have informed QDN’s Election Platform. “Our Election Platform priorities reflect real and serious issues.” said Paige Armstrong QDN CEO. “These issues need to be addressed with proven, actionable programs that will ensure people with disability are empowered and fully included as active citizens within their communities.”
There are serious issues around the NDIS, the Royal Commission, transport, housing options and health. QDN makes clear recommendations on these issues and around the National Disability Agreement and National Disability Strategy and employment. Mr Webb said, “Currently we experience multiple barriers to accessing everyday services such as health, transport, safety and justice. We vote, we want jobs, we need affordable and accessible housing, and a standard of living that means we can meet everyday costs”.
“I will be actively encouraging our members across the state to speak to their local candidates prior to 18 May to ensure disability is front and centre of their agenda” said Mr Webb.
Ms Armstrong said “Now more than ever we need strong, visionary, political leadership in Australia to innovate, invest in, and deliver inclusive mainstream services that ensure the full participation of people with disability in their communities”,
QDN looks forward to close collaboration and dialogue with Queensland candidates and the Government that will be formed after the election on 18 May 2019.
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For more information, contact Paige Armstrong, QDN Chief Executive Officer, 0408 720 099 or ceo@qdn.org.au