ENDEAVOUR

Foundation welcomes recent announcements by both the Commonwealth Government and the Federal Opposition, that will create a more vibrant and strong employment sector for people with intellectual disability.

The Government will remove an artificial barrier which has made it slow and difficult for people with intellectual disability to take up an offer of supported employment under the NDIS.

When people with a disability are offered a job they must be free to start work as soon as possible, like any other person, without bureaucratic hurdles that deliver no benefit.

This was an unintended consequence of the NDIS and I am pleased that the Government has listened to our concerns and addressed this issue.

The Federal Opposition has also announced it would ensure Disability Enterprises have access to Commonwealth contracts for work that they are capable and qualified to do, boosting job opportunities for people with a disability.

I welcome this as a practical way to support job opportunities for people with a disability; one for which we have long advocated.

Meaningful employment brings greater independence, improved financial resilience and increased social inclusion.

As more Australians with a disability gain access to essential support through the NDIS, it’s vital that employment programs nationwide can meet people’s aspirations to join the workforce.

Exclusion from employment remains one of the biggest barriers facing Australians with a disability.

Every Australian has something to contribute, and we believe that by focusing on abilities we can create a society where everyone who wants to work has the opportunity to do so.

Economic independence increases the range of choices available in life, and gives people with a disability more influence on society through their purchasing decisions.

These are important ways that we can achieve greater levels of inclusion.

I look forward to seeing policy innovations from all political parties, to establish a flourishing employment market that welcomes people of all abilities. ANDREW DONNE, CEO, ENDEAVOUR FOUNDATION