Carol Brown (Tasmania, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

It was a pleasure to attend the Tasmanian Disability Awards last week on behalf of Minister Butler. The evening celebrated the achievements of people with disability and recognised organisations, workers, families and the carers who support them. The awards highlighted the strength, talent and leadership of Tasmania's disability community while reminding us of the work still ahead to build a more inclusive society where every Tasmanian, regardless of ability, can take part fully in community life.

The Albanese Labor government remains committed to supporting people with disability to live healthy, fulfilling lives. At the heart of this is our work to secure the future of the NDIS, ensuring it stays true to its original purpose of supporting those with significant and permanent needs by guaranteeing its long-term sustainability. Respect for the voices and choices of people with disability is central to this work.

We also know that participation matters. Access to education, training and employment creates opportunities for independence and inclusion and helps ensure that people with disability can contribute their skills and leadership across every part of our community. In Tasmania this means making sure people with disability can access opportunities in our schools, our workplaces and our local communities, no matter where they live.

I'd like to thank everyone who contributed to the Tasmanian Disability Awards, from service providers and advocates to families, carers, workers and organisers, for the vital role you play in making inclusion real and in strengthening our community as a whole. Congratulations to all those who were recognised on the night, and I especially thank the organisers for putting together such a successful event.