Stronger Toghether -
The NSW Government's 10 Year Disability Plan

July 4 / 2006 by Kevin Marron

On June 23, we and the other peak bodies in the disability sector attended a Round Table forum convened by the NSW Ombudsman to digest and discuss the 10 year plan. The Ombudsman has a role in monitoring DADHC to ensure that it remains accountable for delivering its stated and statutory service obligations.

This forum provided an opportunity for the peaks to share their views an analysis of the plan and discuss our collective focus on how this can be built upon, and how to ensure DADHC remains accountable for its plans and stated service delivery targets.

There were a number of sentiments amongst the group that despite this pleasing news of increased service provision, there were still many shortfalls to the plan and the disability service system. Areas and issues raised within our discussion included:

• disappointment that the priority of closing institutions seems to be off the agenda
• long term supported accommodation options have limited opportunities
• no mention or action on advocacy roles
• no mention on Boarding Houses
• nothing for PADP
• little for transport
• future role of ‘For Profit’ providers within the sector.
• along with my comments as reflected in my report to members.

We hope to work closely with the Ombudsman and other peaks collectively as the plan is rolled out, so as to monitor its progress & DADHC’s commitment to increased & equitable service provision.