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The abilityNEWS Daily
The Big Story
Treasurer Jim Chalmers delivers the budget (photo courtesy ABC)
An underwhelming budget? What the big spending plans actually meant for People with Disability
Four Budget Papers, one special Statement, nine media releases, and 20 Portfolio Budget Statements - the budget isn’t available to read one simple, easy-read document.
This is one reason it made sense for Advocacy for Inclusion to express mixed reviews anout last week’s Federal budget.
In a post-budget web conference, leaders from across the disability sector were keen to point out their main takeaway - although some positive steps were made, people with disabilities remained “largely invisible.”
“We welcome continuing the Information, Learning and Capacity (ILC) grant program as a bridge, noting that it is currently problematic,” Advocacy for Inclusion said.
“Many of us had proposed strongly that the disability advocacy sector is ready to start working around foundational supports given the gap in supports of the NDIS.”
El Gibbs, the Co-Chair of the NDIS Reform Advisory Committee, said that although they estimated it would cost $1.7 billion a year to adequately meet the needs of people with disabilities outside the NDIS there was a lack of support offered by the federal government.
“We’ve been working with Minister Rishworth [but] we’re nowhere near that in this budget.”
“It’s well below what we proposed in the NDIS review to meet tier two.”
The Briefing
Down Syndrome Lights in Perth
International swimmer joins Down Syndrome Australia board
By Down Syndrome Australia
Michael Cox, a self-advocate and former international swimmer from Queensland, has joined the Down Syndrome Australia board. He brings experience from the Down Syndrome Advisory Network and global advocacy at the United Nations.
Principles to be used as 'navigators' replace LAC's
By Disability Advocacy Network Australia
DANA and NDS have released a report outlining 11 core principles for the new NDIS Navigator roles recommended in a 2023 Review. Navigators will replace Local Area Coordinators and supports by providing independent, community-connected guidance across disability and mainstream services.
Historic breakthrough: First neuromyelitis drug added to the PBS
By Multiple Sclerosis Australia
Ravulizumab has become the first treatment for neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD) added to Australia's PBS. The listing follows its 2024 approval and will help eligible adults manage this rare condition more effectively.
Pleasure and Consent – Discussion Paper Released
By Women With Disabilities Australia
Women and gender diverse people with disabilities in Australia face significant barriers to sexual and reproductive healthcare and higher rates of violence. A new discussion paper highlights how a pleasure-based approach can support sexual agency and improve health and safety outcomes.
Mental Health and Disability
By Mental Health Australia
Another one from WDV. Mental health challenges can affect anyone, regardless of identity, making inclusion and understanding essential. Emma Jago explores the intersection of disability and mental health, offering insight into shared experiences and available support.
abilityDIARY
Introducing abilityDIARY: Your Go-To Hub for Disability-Focused Events in Australia
abilityNEWS is excited to launch abilityDIARY, a platform dedicated to showcasing disability-focused events from across Australia—all in one place!
Whether you’re looking for accessible arts and culture, advocacy forums, inclusive sports, or community meet-ups, abilityDIARY makes it easier than ever to find the events that matter to you.
abilityDIARY will bring our community together by making events more visible and accessible. From major national conferences to local grassroots initiatives, our goal is to ensure that no opportunity for engagement and empowerment goes unnoticed.
And we want organisations, event hosts, and community members to contribute!
If you're organising a relevant event, submit your listing directly to our website at: www.abilitynews.org/diary. It’s free, easy, and will help more people to discover, experience, and participate.
Join us in making abilityDIARY the ultimate destination for disability-focused events across Australia. Start exploring today and help us grow this incredible resource by sharing your events with the wider community!
Upcoming Events
All Abilities Monthly Disco
The All Abilities Monthly Disco is a recurring event designed for individuals with disabilities to socialize, enjoy music, and have fun in an inclusive environment. Held on the second Friday of each month.
Date: 11 April 2025
Location: Moorooka Community Centre, Moorooka (QLD)
Time: 6 PM to 9 PM
National Disability Summit
The 16th Annual National Disability Summit in 2025 will convene disability service providers, policymakers, and advocates to discuss advancements and strategies for enhancing independence and societal participation for individuals with disabilities
Date: 8-9 September 2025
Location - Crown Melbourne (VIC)
WWDACT Coffee Catch Up: Peer Event
The WWDACT Coffee Catch Up is a monthly gathering hosted by Women With Disabilities ACT, inviting individuals with disabilities to connect over complimentary drink and snacks in a supportive environment.
Date: 26 April 2025
Location: Cafe Stepping Stone, Dickson (ACT)
Time: 12 PM to 2 PM