Consultation Begins on the Territory’s First Disability Strategy
4 October 2021
The Territory Labor Government is delivering on a major election commitment with the Territory’s first Disability Strategy.
Consultation has, with targeted sessions to be held throughout the sector.
There are 20,500 Territorians with a disability and this strategy aims to improve services for them.
One major of aspect of the strategy and what consultation will look at, is the National Disability Insurance Scheme and how we can maximise the potential of the NDIS in the Northern Territory.
Other aspects of the Strategy will include a focus on:
- access for people with a disability to mainstream services;
- the opportunity for people with a disability to reach their potential;
- outcomes for Aboriginal people with a disability and people with a disability who live in remote regions; and
- what is working well and what needs to change.
The NT Strategy will be driven by Action Plans to show progress and outcomes.
Consultations and consultation resources must meet access requirements of stakeholders, and accessible materials will be made available throughout the consultation period, so everyone can have input.
To have your say regarding the future of disability services in the Northern Territory visit: https://haveyoursay.nt.gov.au/nt-disability-strategy
Quotes from Minister for Disabilities, Kate Worden:
“The Territory Labor Government promised to develop a disability strategy, and we are on our way to forming a guiding framework that reflects the needs of people living with a disability in the Territory.
“The focus of the NT Strategy is on improving access to mainstream services. We want to hear the stories, issues and concerns which our disabled Territorians face.
“The unique regional and remoteness of the Northern Territory, and the fact that over 50% of our Territory NDIS participants are Indigenous, is a constant challenge under the NDIS model. An aspect requiring consistent reminding to the National NDIS Management based in the eastern states.
“The lived experience of people with disability is important and valued and the NT Strategy will reflect the voice and priorities of people with disability in the NT.”