Media Release: A new Bill for a more inclusive society

Published 7th January 2014

Media Release sent out by FACS (Dec, 2013)

On December 17th 2013, NSW Minister for Disability Services John Ajaka invited the public to have their sat on the draft Disability Inclusion Bill 2014  before it is introduced into Parliament in 2014.

Minister Ajaka said the NSW Government needs to ensure the legislative framework embraces changes to support the individual rights of people, while providing necessary safeguards as we move towards full access under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).

“The draft Bill is intended to replace the NSW Disability Services Act 1993 and proposes a rights-based inclusion framework that moves us away from historical, highly regulated services,” Mr Ajaka said.

“This legislation will ensure there is greater opportunity for people with disability by opening the door to individual choice in the way supports are provided.

“The draft Bill is about the dignity and respect that every single person is entitled to. The Disability Inclusion Bill will be a landmark bill that upholds the rights of people with disability to live free from abuse, neglect and exploitation.

“The draft Bill also includes provisions to introduce compulsory reporting safeguards in addition to the current investigative powers of the NSW Ombudsman to ensure the safety of all people with disability.

In 2013 “... a series of community consultations were held across NSW with people with disability, their families and carers as a first step in the review process. After listening to what they said they wanted from this legislation, we are looking forward to their further feedback on the draft Bill.

“The draft Bill also sets out the role of the NSW Government following the transition to the NDIS. While the NDIS transfers service provision from NSW Government to the Commonwealth, it does not alter our obligations to remain as protectors for people with disability.”

The draft Bill will be available for public comment until 14 February 2014. Comment can be made online via www.adhc.nsw.gov.au/dib , by phoning 1800 446 470 or by emailing .

There are a number of resources on hand to help people have their say and more information is available on the ADHC website: www.adhc.nsw.gov.au/dib