The return of the Albanese Government raises the challenge of ensuring the voices of people with disability remain a priority.
But there are opportunities and challenges ahead for the disability sector.
Australian Federation of Disability Organisations CEO Ross Joyce said now was the time for the government to show real leadership by recognising the 5.5 million Australians with disability and appointing a dedicated Minister for Disability who can drive meaningful reform and accountability.
“One of the positives from this election outcome is the potential for greater policy continuity and legislative certainty. A majority government reduces the political instability and gridlock we have seen in recent years, creating a more stable environment for progressing reform,” Joyce told F2L. “For the disability sector, this offers an opportunity to work with government on advancing improvements to the NDIS and delivering on the recommendations of the Disability Royal Commission without the constant distraction of parliamentary upheaval or reliance on crossbench negotiations.”
Call for greater collaboration
He also pointed to the government’s previous commitments to co-design and consultation that provides a platform to build on. “If the government remains willing to engage in genuine partnership, there is scope for deeper collaboration with people with disability and their representative organisations in shaping policy and reform.”
However, he said what was missing during the election campaign was a stronger and clearer policy vision for the disability community and while disability issues were acknowledged, they were not front and centre in the national political conversation.
“We did not see bold commitments to addressing systemic barriers, improving accessibility, or clear detail on how the recommendations of the Disability Royal Commission or Foundational Supports would be implemented and funded.”
For AFDO, the return of a majority Labor government provides the chance to engage directly with government to influence policy without the complexity of dealing with a divided parliament. At the same time, a strong majority reduces some of the traditional advocacy levers available through the House of Reps, Senate, crossbench or independent negotiations.
“This makes our direct engagement with ministers, advisers and senior departmental officials even more critical in the coming term. We will need to work harder to ensure our policy priorities are heard and acted upon within government processes, rather than relying on parliamentary advocacy strategies. AFDO stands ready to work with the government, across all relevant portfolios, to advance inclusion, rights and opportunities for people with disability,” he said.