The Northern Territory Disability Advisory Committee today held its first meeting having been postponed due to COVID-19.

The Committee is the first of its kind for the Northern Territory and is unique nationally, with strong representation from Aboriginal peoples and individuals from remote and very remote parts of the Territory.

The Committee was appointed to represent people in the NT living with disabilities to provide advice to Government on issues affecting them.

They will also assist in raising awareness of the rights of people with disability, and the role of government and the community in meeting obligations under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of People with Disability.

The Northern Territory Government will also engage this group as it works towards achieving the shared vision of the National Disability Strategy for an inclusive society that enables people with disability to fulfil their potential as equal citizens.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic the work of the Committee was delayed until today, with the first official meeting opened by Minister for Disabilities with a focus on establishment of the Northern Territory Disability Strategy; and the review of the Northern Territory Disability Services Act.

Quotes from Minister for Disabilities, Natasha Fyles:

“Like many sectors and initiatives our Disability Advisory Committee have had to wait out COVID-19 and adjust to the new normal before work could commence.

“This committee represents a new platform for people with disabilities, their families and carers to be able to provide insight and share their experiences with government that has previously not existed. 

“The Committee will be driving the National Disability Strategy here in the NT that looks towards a future that is more inclusive and enables everyone to fulfil their potential”.

Media contact: Hannah West 0436 641 108