A renewed commitment to disability advocacy

Last published on 19 Dec 2019 

Funding for disability advocacy services will be extended through to the end of 2020 as the NSW Government reaffirms its commitment to advocacy following the release of a review into the sector by NSW Ageing and Disability Commissioner Robert Fitzgerald AM.

Minister for Families, Communities and Disability Services Gareth Ward said disability advocacy plays an important role and the funding extension will provide certainty for the sector while the Government considers the report in its entirety.

“Advocacy enables and supports people with disability who are trying to access services by helping them overcome barriers that affect their ability to participate in society,” Mr Ward said.

“I recognise the value in advocacy and would like to thank Commissioner Fitzgerald for his report, which will help inform how we invest in services to meet the needs of people with disability across the State.

“The Commissioner’s report recognises the need for a contemporary and sustainable disability advocacy system. His recommendations will be carefully considered as we work with the sector on a clear path forward.”

Commissioner Fitzgerald’s report outlines the need for NSW to have an ongoing funding role when it comes to advocacy for State-provided services, in light of the changing disability landscape under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).

This financial year alone, NSW will contribute $3.3 billion to the NDIS. Under full-scheme arrangements, organisations delivering disability services are receiving more money than ever before, including for the provision of advocacy services.

The NSW Government will work with agencies and sector experts through the NSW Disability Advisory Council to consider and respond to the proposed reforms.

To read Commissioner Fitzgerald’s report, visit https://bit.ly/35BXQNID

Download media release: A renewed commitment to disability advocacy (PDF , 151.7 KB)