The Albanese Government is committed to improving the safety, wellbeing, and inclusion of people with disability.
Today’s release of the first full Disability Royal Commission Progress Report shows the Government is serious when it comes to making sure that people with a disability live with dignity, equality and respect.
The landmark Disability Royal Commission (DRC) heard from almost 10,000 people with disability, disability advocates, family members, carers and supporters.
The DRC Final Report was handed down in September 2023 and made 222 recommendations. Governments responded to the Final Report in July 2024.
Since then, meaningful progress has been made on the recommendations that fall to the Commonwealth, States and Territories, and those that require close collaboration between both levels of government and other organisations.
Deep engagement with the disability community has helped to guide the work that’s already underway and will continue to play a crucial role in informing these reforms.
The first full Progress Report reflects tangible action taken in areas such as:
- Improving the rights of people with disability
- Safety and Compliance
- Inclusion and Access
- Employment & Education
- Advocacy
- First Nations Outcomes
Since 2024, the Government has launched a review of the Disability Discrimination Act, established the Inclusive Employment Australia program, progressed reform of the individual disability advocacy program, and awarded $19.6 million to shift attitudes and break down barriers under the Inclusion and Accessibility Fund. The NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission has carried out a range of targeted compliance campaigns.
The Progress Report will be available on the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing website.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Disability and the NDIS Mark Butler:
“Our Government is focussed on delivering meaningful reforms to improve the lives of all Australians living with disability, guided by recommendations from the Disability Royal Commission.”
“This important work is being achieved, through collaboration and working in partnership with the disability community to continue to implement meaningful change.”
Quotes attributable to NDIS Minister Senator Jenny McAllister:
“The Disability Royal Commission helped to shine a light on the harm, exclusion and discrimination experienced by Australians with disability.”
“We have got to work on undertaking the necessary reforms to uphold the rights of people with disability and break down the systemic barriers that prevent people from reaching their full potential.”
“While we’ve made progress, our Government recognises there is much work to be done and the disability community will continue to be at the centre of our efforts now and into the future.”