© Queenslanders with Disability Network Inc.
Updated29th November 2008
News.
Check here for General Information about our news and newsletters.
This page is mainly devoted to current and breaking news.Note: Use of his material is subject to our Copyright provisions.
QDN posts our Newsletter and bulletins here.
QDN posts information on QDN Events here.
Please note: Up to date press releases and information bulletins from Disability Services Queensland can be found on the official DSQ web site, by following this link. The site allows you to sign up to receive news to your own email.
News.
Details of major construction work at King George Square.
Details of major construction work at King George Square that will disrupt access to the City Hall main entrance and across the Square. At all times the Ann St and Adelaide St footpaths will remain open.
Follow this link to read the construction details.
PDCA has changed its name.
On 25th September, 2008 the former Physical Disability Council of Australia Ltd or PDCA, changed it's name to Physical Disability Australia Ltd.
Follow this link to read the PDA Word file.
Sydney law professor a great candidate for international disability rights committee.
Disability Discrimination Commissioner, Graeme Innes AM, today welcomed the Australian Government's nomination of Professor Ron McCallum AO for election to the international committee to monitor implementation of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
Follow this link to read the AHRC report.
CRU's Safeguards Summit 2008.
You are invited to participate in CRU's Safeguards Summit 2008 to be held in Brisbane on Tuesday 11 November.
Follow this link to read the CRU flie.
HREOC will now be known as the Australian Human Rights Commission.
Hearing awareness: A call to action for Australian cinemas.
As part of Hearing Awareness Week, Australia's Disability Discrimination Commissioner, Graeme Innes, has called for cinemas to do their share for Australians who are deaf and hearing impaired.
Follow this link to read the DDC press report.
End discriminatory access to public documents.
Disability Discrimination Commissioner, Graeme Innes, today called upon government departments and agencies to improve their adherence to government standards and legislation that requires them to provide equal access to public information for people with disability.
Follow this link to read the HREOC press report.
Problems with Accessible Taxis (NSW).
For the past few years the NSW Department of Transport has been licensing Wheelchair Accessible Taxis that do not comply with the Disability Standards for Accessible Public Transport 2002 (Cth) (Public Transport Standards).
Follow this link to read the PIAC report.
Talking Taxis tools now available for everyone!
Do you know someone who sometimes has trouble being understood? Have you ever had trouble getting your message across to a taxi driver?
Follow this link to read the details from The Minister for Transport.
Supporting the Declaration (Indigenous people) is the next step.
The Australian government should move quickly to support the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous people, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner Tom Calma said today, on the eve of the first anniversary of the Declaration's passing at the UN.
Follow this link to read the details of the Commissioners comments.
Disabled 'lacking access' to public info.
The federal disability commissioner has threatened to “name and shame” government departments and agencies which do not make public information accessible to people with disabilities.
Follow this link to read the details of the Commissioners report.
Disabled staff 'intimidated, underpaid'.
A Melbourne company that underpaid and bullied disabled workers it hired to collect trolleys in NSW has been fined $120,000.
Follow this link to read the details of the Workplace report.
New rights for disabled and less mobile passengers.
Under new European law, if you are disabled or have difficulty moving around, you will have improved rights to assistance when you fly to, from and within Europe from 26 July 2008. You do not need to be permanently or physically disabled to benefit from these rights. In fact, anyone who has difficulty moving around, for example, because of their disability or age, can receive help when they fly.
Follow this link to read the PDF of the EHR report.
A great day for Australians with disability.
18 July 2008: Human Rights Commissioner Graeme Innes has welcomed the announcement today of Australia becoming a party to the international Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and called for governments to act to make the rights in the Convention a reality.
Follow this link to read the HREOC report.
Implementing and Monitoring the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in the Australian Social and Legal Context.
QAI Seminar. When: 20th August 2008. Where: Undumbi Room, Level 5, Paliamentary Annex 9:00am Registration and coffee 9:15am Welcome and introductions Followed by: Launch of Human Rights indicators for People with Disability. A resource for disability activists and policy makers incorporating an introduction and commentary to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Time: 5.30 — 7.30pm Venue: The Premiers Hall, Level 4, Parliamentary Annex.
Follow this link to read the PDF with the details.
Or, follow this link to the web sitePerson-centred support: what service users and practitioners say.
This (UK) study examines person-centred support, a key new concern in public services. It does this by bringing together for the first time the views, ideas and experience of service users, face to face practitioners and managers. Government is committed to 'personalisation', 'self-directed support' and 'individual budgets' in social care, aiming for increased choice and control for the people who use services. This is a move away from traditional, 'one-size-fits-all' approaches.
Follow this link to read the study (Warning: Large 12MB word file).
RUDD GOVERNMENT TO IMPROVE AUSTRALIA'S DISABILITY DISCRIMINATION SYSTEM.
The Rudd Government will introduce legislative amendments to the Disability Discrimination Act in the Spring sittings of Parliament to implement recommendations made by the Productivity Commission in its 2004 review of the Act.
Follow this link to read the Federal media report.
$19 Million in Extra Funding for Queensland Community Care.
The Australian Government Minister for Ageing, Justine Elliot, and the Queensland Minister for Disability Services, Lindy Nelson-Carr today announced a $19 million boost for older people and people with a disability. The Australian Government has contributed almost $12.3 million and the Queensland Government $6.7 million in 2007/08. The extra funds in this second round will deliver additional help at home, day care, social support and respite care services — through the Home and Community Care (HACC) program in Queensland.
Follow this link to read the media report.
Vale: Dr William (Bill) Davies.
William Evan Davies did not consider a career in rehabilitation medicine until his wife Susan was injured in an accident.
Follow this link to read the full obituary (CM 11th July, 2008). Apologies for the low resolution JPEG scan.
Draft Non Discrimination Directive Fails to Protect Disabled People.
Brussels, 02 July 2008 — The European Commission made public today its proposal for a directive on non discrimination outside employment.
Follow this link to read the full press release.
Landmark decision means disability discrimination case against Virgin Blue takes off.
Two people with disabilities have won a victory for public interest litigants in Australia. The two are claiming that Virgin Blue's requirement that they travel with a carer at their own expense is discriminatory.
Follow this link to read the media release.
$190 million boost for children with autism and their families.
All children aged six and under who are diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and are not yet at school will have access to up to $12,000 over two years in essential early intervention support, through a landmark $190 million package funded by the Australian Government.
Follow this link to read the media release.
Helping Older Australians Enjoy the Movies: Accessible Cinema.
The Federal Government today announced a plan to improve smaller independent cinemas for some of the four million people with vision and hearing impairment with special audio description (AD) equipment and captioning.
Follow this link to the web site.
Sydney For All : Accessible Activities and Attractions.
Follow this link to the web site.
Letter to Women With Disabilities Australia regarding access to premises.
We are writing to inform you about progress in relation to the development of proposed Disability Standards for Access to Premises.
Follow this link to read more about the letter.
'Don't stare' at Paralympians, official volunteer guide.
DISABLED people can be unsocial, stubborn, controlling, defensive and have a strong sense of inferiority, according to an official Beijing Olympics guide.
The Olympic manual for volunteers in Beijing is peppered with patronising comments, noting for example that physically disabled people are “often” mentally healthy.
Follow this link to read more about the newspaper article.
2020 Summit.
When Prime Minister Kevin Rudd announced the Australia 2020 Summit a little more than two months ago, he invited 1000 Australians to help shape a long term strategy for the nation's future, to tackle the long-term challenges confronting Australia by thinking in new ways. Since then, all over the nation, tens of thousands of people have grasped the opportunity for a public conversation about the future of Australia.
Follow this link to read more about the Summit report (large file).
Making a difference: Values in Action.
We encourage you to begin or renew your membership of the Values in Action Association Inc. Your membership will be current until 31 December 2008. Your membership signifies your connection to a growing network of individual people.
Follow this link to read more about the organisation.
Follow this link to read more about the organisation's events.
Flight still closed? Response to the Allen Consulting Group on Review of the Disability Standards for Accessible Public Transport: Draft Report. April 2008.
The Allen Consulting Group (ACG) on behalf of the Federal Government, released the Review of the Disability Standards for Accessible Public Transport: Draft Report (the Draft Report) in January 2008. The Public Interest Advocacy Centre (PIAC) and the NSW Disability Discrimination Legal Centre, supported by a coalition of disability organisations, produced Flight Closed1; which was submitted to the Inquiry in August 2007. Flight Closed is based on an analysis of 110 case studies provided by passengers with disabilities who described their experience of accessing air travel. PIAC representatives also appeared at a hearing conducted by the reviewers during the period of public consultation in August 2007.
This response to the Draft Report considers that report from the perspective of how access to air travel would be effected by the recommendations contained in the Draft Report. Comments are focussed on the general quality of the analysis of the Draft Report, particularly the adequacy of the information sources, level of analysis and whether the evidence, support the recommendations in the Draft Report.
Follow this link to read more about the draft report.
Report on the experiences of People with Disabilities in Domestic Airline Travel in Australia.
This report has been prepared by the Public Interest Advocacy Centre (PIAC) in collaboration with the National Accessible Airlines Steering Group.
The Public Interest Advocacy Centre (PIAC) is an independent, non-profit law and policy organisation that identifies public interest issues and works co-operatively with other organisations to advocate for individuals and groups affected. PIAC seeks to promote a just and democratic society by making strategic interventions on public interest issues.
Follow this link to read more about the new findings.
Development authority given broad powers.
HIGHER council rates in new developments and even a ban on pets in some areas have been proposed as a new super regulator prepares a massive shake-up of development and housing in Queensland. (ed: I don't know if universal design is on the radar with this body but I hope it could be.
Follow this link to read more about the new authority.
Assistance at airports.
Recently I attended a conference sponsored by the European Commission on “Tourism For All” which was held in Spain. One of the most interesting presentations was about the new Regulation 1107 which will come into effect throughout all European Countries regarding assistance at Airports. The most important aspect of this regulation is that the assistance to passengers with a disability has been taken out of the hands of the individual airports and is now the responsibility of the airport management.
Follow this link to read more about the new rules.
Federal Court of Appeal Denies Airline Application to Overturn Historic Disability Transport Decision (Canada).
The Federal Court of Appeal has denied Air Canada and Westjet's application for leave to appeal a historic decision of the Canadian Transportation Agency (CTA) that allows Canadians with disabilities to travel by air without having to pay for a second seat to accommodate their disabilities, whether for themselves or their attendant.
Follow this link to read more about the news report.
Record $1.2 billion disabilities budget.
Queenslanders with a disability were big winners in today's State Budget with the government delivering more than $1 billion which will be directed towards service delivery including early intervention and prevention.
Follow this link to read more about the budget.
Social Role Valorisation: A Reflective Theory Event Brisbane: 22 and 29 July and 5 Aug 2008.
This workshop provides an extensive theoretical overview of Social Role Valorisation (SRV) Theory, using lecture and discussion format. Time is allocated in this event for personal and group reflection. The three-day workshop (which includes evening work).
Follow this link to read more about the SRV workshop.
Italian bishop refuses wedding.
ROME, ITALY - AN Italian bishop has told a young paraplegic he cannot have a church wedding because he is impotent, despite his fiancée being aware of the problem, media here reported.
Follow this link to read more about the report.
$2.5 million vehicle scheme for people with a disability.
More than 220 Victorians with a disability and their families are set to benefit from easier vehicle transport under a new Brumby Government subsidy.
Follow this link to read more about the scheme.
Plan Seeks More Access for Disabled.
WASHINGTON : The Bush administration is about to propose far-reaching new rules that would give people with disabilities greater access to tens of thousands of courtrooms, swimming pools, golf courses, stadiums, theaters, hotels and retail stores.
Follow this link to read more about the plan.
Good-Bye Full Accessibility - Information Bulletin #250 (6/08)
In 1990, the disability community, Congress, state officials and businesses made numerous compromises to obtain the passage of the ADA. Despite these compromises, then President Bush, disability leaders and Congress trumpeted the eventual full accessibility of public and private facilities. Sometime in the future, people with disabilities would achieve equal opportunity with non disabled and full accessibility would be achieved.
Follow this link to read more about the bulletin.
Review of the Disability Standards for Accessible Public Transport.
The Draft Review Report has been released for comment from stakeholders.
The review team is seeking comments from all interested stakeholders on this Draft Report. Written comments on the Draft can be made to the review team up to 5pm Monday March 31st 2008. Further details on how to comment on the Draft Report are available on the link below.
Follow this link to read more about the Draft Report from Allen Consulting.
Board Explores Aspects of Airport Accessibility at Recent Meeting.
Over 80% of travelers with disabilities report access barriers at airports according to a consumer survey. The Board is examining airport terminal accessibility as part of an ongoing program to explore access issues in depth in order to improve compliance and to promote effective design.
Follow this USA link to read more from the United States Access Board.
HREOC welcomes new standards on safety and accessibility in electronic banking.
Human Rights Commissioner and Commissioner responsible for Disability Discrimination, Graeme Innes AM, today welcomed the release of the Australian Bankers’ Association (ABA) guidelines for accessible authentication of financial transactions.
Follow this link to the The Australian Bankers’ Association (ABA) site.
Our buses are accessible but our bus stops aren’t.
Low-floor accessible buses are of little benefit to Australians with mobility disabilities if bus stops are not accessible as well.
Follow this link to the HREOC site to read more about bus stops.
Time to respond: Realising Equality for people with a disability utilising taxi services.
The Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission has released a report containing recommendations to make taxis more accessible and comfortable for people with a disability in Victoria.
http://www.equalopportunitycommission.vic.gov.au/home.asp
Disability Rights Update.
New and recent updates at www.humanrights.gov.au/disability_rights: - Temporary exemption application from Tiger Airways - Temporary exemption application from Rex Airlines - Additional decisions on exemption application by Australasian Railways Association - November edition of Disability Rights Update newsletter.
Track closures; Beenleigh line.
Follow this link to read a Word file about track closures.
Time to consider the overlooked consumers.
22 September 2007.
Disability Discrimination Commissioner Graeme Innes AM has called for more attention on access for older people and people with disabilities in the design of consumer electronics and appliances. Launching the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission’s (HREOC) The Overlooked Consumers discussion paper, which examines accessibility of consumer electronics and home appliances, Mr Innes said design was a major concern.
Follow this link to find more details.
The full paper is available on the HREOC website.
PDCA on the Draft Access to Premises standard.
Listed hereafter is the position of Physical Disability Council of Australia (PDCA) on the Draft Access to Premises standard to be established under the Disability Discrimination Act of 1992.
Follow this link to find more details.
NovitaTech's mobile phone usability study.
The NovitaTech Research and Development department, with funding from the Department of Communications, Information Technology and the Arts (DCITA) is conducting a study into mobile phones. The study will evaluate the usability and complexity of current mobile phones. So if you (or a friend/family member) have a physical disability or are over the age of 65 then we’d greatly appreciate your input.
Follow this link to find more details.
Report on the experiences of People with Disabilities in Domestic Airline Travel in Australia.
In 2006 and 2007, PIAC worked with a number of key disability advocacy groups and individuals across Australia on the issue of barriers to access to airline travel for people with disabilities. This report uses the stories provided from people with disabilities and their families about their experiences of airline travel to identify the key barriers and propose solutions. Those experiences make it very clear that people with disabilities do not enjoy equality of access to airline travellers with others in Australia and that, if anything, things have got worse rather than better in the last five years. The report has been submitted to the Federal Government's five-year Review of the Disability Standards for Accessible Public Transport 2002.
Follow this link to find more details.
QDN's Response: Review of the Disability Standards for Accessible Public Transport.
Follow this link to find more details.
The Access to Premises Campaign Kit has been launched.
The Access to Premises Campaign Kit addresses the issues of up to 4 Million Australians who are unable to access their own communities.
The Australian Federation of Disability Organisations today launched the Access to Premises Campaign Kit. The Kit will provide information and tools to people with a disability that will help them speak out about the lack of access to businesses and services that they face in their local communities.
Follow this link to find more details.
Volunteers sought for motorised scooter or wheelchair study.
Physiotherapy researchers are seeking volunteers who currently drive a motorised scooter or wheelchair full-time or occasionally, and who are aged 18 or over.
As an observation on behalf of members of the Spinal Injuries Association, Mr. John Mayo reports "It is my opinion that this project is one that Spinal Injuries Association is not in a position to become involved with due to fundamental differences in thoughts the Association and University of Queensland have on the issue. Without a clarification on the University of Queensland's part regarding their opinion of what constitutes a capacity to demonstrate proper handling of a motorized scooter or wheelchair it would be improper on our behalf to participate".
Follow this link to find more details from the UQ.
Follow this link to find more details of John Mayo's assessment.
PASSING Workshop.
Values in Action presents; PASSING Workshop. Brisbane 22-26 October.
Follow this link to find more details.
New Stones Corner program provides path to independence.
A service helping people with an intellectual disability to live more independently in the community was officially opened at Stones Corner today.
Mass transit consultation. Brisbane.
A task force has been established to look at future mass transport in Brisbane. The investigation will look at the best way to achieve this, taking into account Brisbane‚s unique combination of city and suburbs being relatively spread out.
Follow this link to find more details.
Help Council identify “priority bus stops” for people with disabilities.
Brisbane City Council is continually upgrading its 6,800 bus stops as part of the development of the TransLink public transport system in SEQ.
Follow this link to find more details.
Review of the Disability Standards for Accessible Public Transport.
Section 31 of the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 provides that the Attorney-General may formulate standards in relation to, relevantly, the provision of public transport services and facilities. The Disability Standards for Accessible Public Transport 2002 (the Transport Standards) were made under section 31, and took effect on 23 October 2002.
Part 34 of the Transport Standards requires the Minister for Transport and Regional Services, in consultation with the Attorney-General, to review the efficiency and effectiveness of the Transport Standards. A review is required within five years of the Transport Standards coming into effect and every five years thereafter.
Follow this link to find more details.
Follow this link to the PDF file of the issues paper.
The Allen Consulting Group has been engaged to undertake the 2007 review of the Transport Standards.
Brunswick Street Station Redevelopment.
As part of the State Government's growth management and urban planning strategies for South East Queensland, Brunswick Street Station will be redeveloped to improve its accessibility, safety features and visual appeal for the growing number of people who live, work and socialise in the area.
During the first stage, Platforms 3 & 4 will be closed from public access between mid July 2007 and March 2008. This will mean that trains will not stop at these platforms and some passengers will need to change trains at Central or Eagle Junction Stations for a service which stops at Platforms 1 or 2 at Brunswick Street Station.
Follow this link to find more details.
MP Backs Lecturers. “Laughing at the Disabled”.
THE six-month suspensions of two QUT academics for speaking out against a PhD film thesis on Laughing at the Disabled was “outrageously harsh”, a senior State Government backbencher said yesterday. Ronan Lee, the Member for Indooroopilly and Parliamentary Secretary to Communities and Disability Services Minister Warren Pitt, said the Government had a role to play in ensuring disabled people received a fair go in the community.
Follow this link to find more details.
Inner Northern Busway Stakeholder Project Update No. 53.
This weekly notification is compiled to inform you of the progress of the Inner Northern Busway Queen Street to Upper Roma Street project, as construction advances along the busway route. This notification is a full compilation of all the work planned for the coming week, with a look ahead for the following two to four weeks.
Follow this link to find more details.
Inner Northern Busway - Countess Street Closure Update.
In addition to the project update 53 above, please be advised of the following closure coming up on Countess Street.
Follow this link to find more details.
Local ideas to be showcased at Sunshine Coast disability forum.
People with an interest in disability issues are being invited to share their visions for a better future at the upcoming Shared Visions regional forum for the Sunshine Coast.
Follow this link to find more details.
Laughing at the Disabled.
Have you heard about the issue (title) going on here in Qld at QUT the latest is the two whistle blowers have been suspended without pay for six months you can see some film and comments on you tube www.youtube.com search QUT to go to link.
Follow this link to find more details.
Tourism Accommodation Requirements and Information Needs of People with Mobility Disabilities.
You are invited to take part in a research study conducted by the University of Technology Sydney on the tourism accommodation needs of people with mobility disabilities. The research aims to identify the room requirements and preferred information format for presenting accessible accommodation so that a person is able to make an informed decision for their needs.
Follow this link to find more details.
Accessible Spain. e-magazine.
Follow this link to find more details.
$52 million outlay for better, fairer disability service system.
A $52 million program of reforms to create a better and more sustainable disability service system has been outlined by Disability Services Minister Warren Pitt.
Follow this link to find more details.
Extra $106 million allocated for youth justice services.
The Queensland Government has allocated an extra $106 million over four years to expand and improve its successful youth justice programs.
Follow this link to find more details.
Billion dollar budget for Disability Services Queensland.
Disability Services Queensland (DSQ) has received its first billion dollar budget, the largest allocation ever provided to the department. Disability Services Minister Warren Pitt said the DSQ budget for 2007-08 of $1,082 million.
Follow this link to find more details.
Minister announces increased support for Queensland communities.
Services and support for children, youth and families experiencing problems will be improved and enhanced as part of an increased Department of Communities budget for 2007-08.
Follow this link to find more details.
Work begins on Ma:Mu Canopy Walk.
Work had started on the $10 million Ma:Mu canopy walk project in Wooroonooran National Park, Environment Minister Lindy Nelson-Carr and Member for Mulgrave Warren Pitt announced today.
Follow this link to find more details.
Communities to host first Queensland Youth Conference.
Young Queenslanders and youth sector representatives have a chance to highlight issues of importance to youth at the Department of Communities' first Queensland Youth Conference in September.
Follow this link to find more details.
Local ideas to be showcased at Brisbane disability forums.
People with an interest in disability issues are being invited to share their vision for a better future at the upcoming Shared Visions regional forums for Brisbane.
Follow this link to find more details.
QUEENSLAND GOVERNMENT'S $113 MILLION RESPONSE TO THE CARTER REPORT.
Next month's State Budget will provide $113M to fundamentally improve the lives of people with an intellectual disability who exhibit severely challenging behaviour and the working conditions of the staff who care for them.
Follow this link to find more details.
Nominate now for Disability Action Week awards.
The Queensland Government is on the lookout for individuals and organisations that have helped to make a difference to the quality of life for people with a disability.
Follow this link to find more details.
Community organisations invited to share in $1 million funding.
Non-government organisations across Queensland have been invited to apply for a share in $1 million funding for collaborative projects in their local communities.
Follow this link to find more details.
Queensland Rail offer to issue email updates on work at Brunswick St.
An offer from QR if you wish to take it up. Please pass this on to your contacts.
Follow this link to find more details.
$309m for care for Queensland aged and disabled.
More domestic assistance, centre-based day care, social support and respite care services would be available to Queenslanders under a boost to care service funding, the Australian Government Minister for Ageing, Christopher Pyne, and the Queensland Minister for Communities and Disability Services, Warren Pitt, announced today.
Follow this link to find more details.
Future of young Queenslanders to be discussed at statewide forum.
The issues and policies shaping the future of young Queenslanders will be discussed in Brisbane today at the first Statewide Youth Organisations Forum for 2007.
Follow this link to find more details.
The Australian: Invalid killed at crossing [27th April 2007].
A person in a wheelchair is killed on a railway crossing when the wheels of her wheelchair got caught in the tracks.
An unfortunate flange gap tragedy. The article doesn't detail if the crossing was associated with an access path to the station or was only a pedestrian crossing associated with the road.
Follow this link to find more details.
An important conference.
Dear colleague,
I have the honour of being associated with the organisation of a momentous international conference that will bring together some of the foremost experts from a wide variety of fields. They will speak to one issue: How to improve the life outcomes of individuals at risk of social exclusion, devaluation and marginalisation. Clearly, this is what human service is supposed to be all about. Please review the attached flyer and visit the conference website at http://www.vrs-srv2007.ca/intro_en.htm
Hoping to see you there.
Raymond LemayExecutive Director
Services to Children & Adults
C.P. / P. O. Box 248
Plantagenet, ON
K0B 1L0
CANADA
Follow this link to read the PDF file.
Human Rights E-Consultation and On-Line Discussion Forum.
QDN is assisting Queensland Advocacy Inc (QAI) with a human rights project for people with disability. This project aims to tell you about your human rights. The project also aims to find out if your human rights are being respected.
QAI want to find out if the human rights of people with disability in Queensland are being respected.
If you are interested in being involved in this project, please read the attached flyer or contact Melinda Ewin on 3236 1122 or email melinda@qai.org.au
Greg Wagner
Network Coordinator
A NEW study has found that most websites fail to meet basic accessibility guidelines.
A NEW study has found that most websites fail to meet basic accessibility guidelines. The audit - commissioned by the United Nations - reviewed 100 leading travel, banking, media, government and retail websites in 20 countries including Australia.
Follow this link to read the full story.
US Dept. of Transportation Proposes New ADA Rules for Cruise Ships.
On account of the Supreme Court case of Spector v. Norweigan Cruise Line in 2005, in which the Supreme Court ruled that the ADA applies to foreign cruise vessels that enter U.S. waters despite their registration in other countries, the Department of Transportation issued a formal proposal last week addressing policies and conditions relating to transportation of passengers with disabilities.
Follow this link for further details.
Americans With Disabilities Act to apply to cruise ships for the first time.
AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT.
Access rules to apply at sea.
Foreign-flagged cruise ships to be required to heed U.S. regulations.
By Tom Stieghorst.
South Florida Sun-Sentinel.
January 27, 2007.
The (USA) federal government proposed new rules this week that would apply the
Americans With Disabilities Act to cruise ships for the first time.
The rules, published in the Federal Register on Jan. 23, ban
discriminatory practices by foreign-flagged cruise ships that dock in
the United States. Guidelines for the design of ships have yet to be
hammered out.
Follow this link to read the full story.
AIRLINE CASE STUDIES — WE WANT TO HEAR ABOUT YOUR EXPERIENCES OF AIR TRAVEL.
The NSW Disability Discrimination Legal Centre (DDLC) and the Public Interest Advocacy Centre (PIAC) are working with organisations and individuals from across Australia to on an 'Accessible Airlines' Project. PDCA is one of the participants of the National Project Steering Committee. The purpose of this Committee is to develop a strategic approach to address issues of air travel discrimination against people with disability and prepare a brief for the review of the Disability Standards for Accessible Public Transport for 2007.
Follow this link to read the full text.
HREOC welcomes Westpac commitments.
Human Rights Commissioner and Commissioner responsible for Disability Discrimination, Graeme Innes AM, today welcomed the release of Westpac’s 2006 Accessibility Action Plan which makes a number of new commitments to improving access to its service for customers with disabilities.
Follow this link to read the full report.
Follow this link to read the Westpac bulletin.
MEETING BETWEEN CEO CIVIL AVIATION SAFETY AUTHORITY and DISABILITY DISCRIMINATION COMMISSIONER.
Following the meeting in July of this year on airline travel for people with disabilities we met recently to develop a strategy for clarification of perceived and real conflicts between CASA Regulations and Instruments, the DDA and Standards on Accessible Public Transport.
Follow this link for further details.Writers’ Circle
QDN held it's first Writers' and Storytellers' Meeting on the 3rd November. If you would like to be involved in future meetings, please tell us who you are, how you would prefer to be contacted, and your contact details. The Writers' and Storytellers' Circle is initiated by QDN member Shirley Brumby.
Qantas wheelchair rule grounds disability activist.
Qantas wheelchair rule grounds disability activist. Cairns resident, Mr Robert Pyne, who is chairman of the Far North Queensland Regional Disability Council, booked a flight to Hobart for November, to coincide with a national conference on education and employment for the disabled. Qantas told Mr Pyne it could fly him to Sydney but his wheelchair was too big to be allowed on the Boeing 737 flying to Hobart.
Follow this link to read the details.
Disability to make UN top ten.
A United Nations committee today completed drafting on a convention on the rights of people with disabilities. If adopted by the General Assembly next year, it will be the first Human Rights Convention this century and join seven other core human rights conventions.
Follow this link for more details.
ACCESSIBLE NEW YORK.
A practical guide to travelers to New York.
Follow this link for more details.
No Big Wheelchairs (Ireland).
In a week when the Irish government announced a €400 million plan to extend Kildare's rail network, an Athy woman claims she and her wheelchair-user colleagues are being refused permission to travel by train because they are confined to oversized wheelchairs.
Follow this link for more details.
Revised FAQ on access to premises and exemptions.
Can the Commission grant exemptions or dispensations from responsibilities under the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) or the Building Code of Australia (BCA) in relation to building access?
Follow this link for more details.
“VIRTUAL OFFICE” CD-ROM TO AID INDIGENOUS COMMUNITY GROUPS
Indigenous community organisations will soon be able to click their way to a range of practical help following the release of a “virtual office” CD-ROM.
Follow this link for more details.
New power bill subsidy (WA).
The State Government is to introduce a new power bill subsidy for Western Australians who suffer from a chronic medical condition where they cannot control their own body temperature.
Follow this link for more details.
Discrimination against people with disabilities still entrenched in Australia.
Lime taxi’s.
Sydney’s newest Taxi Network — Lime Taxis — received its official network accreditation from the NSW Ministry of Transport on 31 March 2006. Follow this link for further details.
SMARTCARD CONSUMER AND PRIVACY TASKFORCE REPORT.
MEDIA RELEASE: KELVIN THOMSON — FEDERAL SHADOW MINISTER FOR HUMAN SERVICES SMARTCARD CONSUMER AND PRIVACY TASKFORCE REPORT.
Professor Allan Fels’hv Access Card Consumer and Privacy Taskforce first Report makes clear that the Government faces major privacy, security and administrative challenges in getting the Smartcard project running. The report exposes the Government’hvs claim that the card will be voluntary for the trickiness that it is. The report states that “The taskforce recognises that, at some stage, almost every Australian is likely to need an access card”. Professor Fels has suggested that in order to stop 8 becoming a National Identity Card that there be a law that prohibits people being asked to produce the card, except for claiming Medicare and Commonwealth benefits. The question for Minister Hockey is “Will the Government introduce such a law? Does it intend to implement Professor Fels’ suggestion?” Professor Fels’ Taskforce also highlights widespread privacy concerns with the project. One of the reasons for these concerns has been Government secrecy about Smartcard. The Government should stop hiding the Clayton Utz Privacy Impact Assessment, and stop hiding the cost-benefit analysis of the KPMG Report, and release them. 17 June 2006 Contact: Kelvin Thomson 0419 594882
TELLING IT LIKE IT IS HELPS BREAK DOWN BARRIERS.
People with a disability, their family, friends and carers are invited to share their stories to help improve community insight into living with a disability.
Push to sue Virgin.
Recognition for national disability advocate welcomed.
Human Rights Commissioner Graeme Innes has welcomed the award of Member of the Order of Australia to Mr Maurice Corcoran, President of the Australian Federation of Disability Organisations, for service to people with disabilities, and as a contributor to the development of national standards for public transport.
In 2002, Mr Corcoran (and three other community representatives) received a human rights award conferred by the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission for his work in the development of national Disability Standards for Accessible Public Transport. The Commission gave the award in recognition of what it saw as the most significant achievement in the ten years of the Disability Discrimination Act.
Mr Corcoran's nomination for the award within the Order of Australia was supported by the Commission which said:
"The accessible public transport standards stand out among other achievements in implementing the Disability Discrimination Act:
- because of the scale of the changes involved, guiding billions of dollars of investment;
- because of the benefits to be gained by the whole community including people with disabilities;
- because of the degree of implementation the standards have already achieved in practice around Australia;
- and because of the positive precedent they have set for achieving co-operative solutions in other areas of work under the Disability Discrimination Act.
"Mr Corcoran has provided sustained valuable input in assisting industry to implement accessible public transport and in reviewing the Standards in the light of experience," said Commissioner Innes. "He has shown outstanding commitment to resolving differences through negotiation, while remaining firmly committed to accountability to the disability community."
Disabled, builders fight over houses.
NEW housing in Victoria may soon have to cater for the elderly and disabled under radical building regulations being considered by the State Government this week. Follow this link to read the full story.
Independent Living Bill published (UK).
Older and disabled people will be given the right to determine the way they live for the first time, if a bill published on Thursday becomes law. Follow this link to read the full story.
Application of the Transport Standards to the construction and maintenance of bus stops.
This is the text of a letter sent by Commissioner Graeme Innes on 2 June 2006. It is published here in response to wider interest in the issues raised.
Long wait for quadriplegic passenger.
A QUADRIPLEGIC man, Maurice Corcoran, says he has been forced to wait for almost an hour on a Qantas plane before receiving help to disembark. Mr Corcoran, who is also the chairman of the Australian Federation of Disability Organisations, says last month he was left sitting on the plane at Melbourne Airport for 50 minutes, long after cleaners had gone through and cabin staff had changed over.
His disclosure comes as Qantas came under fire from from the paralympian Louise Sauvage, a one-time sponsored promoter of the airline who this week accused it of discrimination against disabled users. Sauvage has been invited for talks with Qantas after expressing her disappointment at the delays being experienced by disabled passengers and recently introduced restrictions on the number of wheelchairs allowed on some smaller aircraft. Follow this link to the full story.
FAIRER ACCESS FOR PEOPLE WITH A DISABILITY.
People with a disability and their carers will have fairer access to a range of cultural and sporting events thanks to funding of $1.5 million announced in today's State Budget.
The Minister for Communities, Disability Services and Seniors, Warren Pitt, said the funding would enable the introduction of two cards, the Access Card and the Carers Card, which would give carers free entry to a number of venues and a range of discounts. Follow this link for further information.
UPDATED INFORMATION ON QUEENSLAND CONCESSIONS.
Finding out about concessions and discounts for Queensland concession card holders is now much easier, thanks to the release of a new and improved brochure. Follow this link for further information.
Virgin Atlantic.
Follow this link to Virgin Atlantic's policy.
Virgin Airlines Saga #4.
Following successful discussions between Virgin Blue Airlines and the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission, Virgin Blue has amended its policy in relation to assistance persons for people with mobility disabilities. Follow this link to the full story (text file).
Virgin Airlines Saga #3.
Virgin Blue, whose founder, Richard Branson, overcame a disability, faces a human rights complaint over the airline's new requirements governing disabled passengers. Follow this link to a text file of the full story (text file).
Virgin Airlines Saga #2.
Virgin Airlines Saga #1.
Disability groups have reacted angrily to revised rules for wheelchair users on Virgin Blue, saying they had been told they would have to pay for carers to accompany them on flights. Paul Nunnari, a Paralympics medallist who has propelled himself thousands of kilometres, said airline staff had told him he would have to be accompanied by a carer. Follow this link to read the full story (text file).
Scooter death epidemic 'imminent'.
An epidemic of deaths and injuries among elderly and disabled Australians riding mobility scooters is just around the corner, a new Australian study said. Follow this link to a PDF file detailing the research.
Opening up events to everyone.
A new guide for event organisers aims to help bring down the barriers to participation for people with a disability.
Accessible Events — a Guide for Organisers, developed by Meeting Events Australia (MEA) and the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission, helps organisers to make their events more accessible to the millions of Australians with a disability.
The Guide is available through the MEA website at http://www.meetingsevents.com.au/research/.
“Building access no holiday for disabled”.
SUMMER holidays. The phrase evokes an image of sun, sand, slow days and late nights. But imagine planning a holiday and it takes 20 phone calls to find a beachside unit with a shower you can use. Or there's no wheelchair accessible restaurant nearby.
For many, the summer holiday presents a chance for that long awaited trip, to unwind at a beachside cottage or mix a little adventure, excitement and indulgence. But for many of the five million or more Australians with disabilities, holiday plans are often scuttled by distress, frustration and embarrassment of trying to find accessible destinations and experiences.
Follow this link to the article .
New Brisbane Transport Initiative.
Following a tender process, a contract has been signed with Black and White Pty Ltd to operate two air-conditioned wheelchair accessible MaxiCabs (1 at Carindale Hills and 1 at Bald Hills) so that local residents without public transport can get to the nearest TransLink bus or rail service. Each PPT will run as a HailnRide service, on a continuous loop basis along a generally pre-defined route, during morning and afternoon periods Monday to Friday only (except public holidays). There is no requirement to book a trip - users just need to wait along the route and hail the driver.
Effects of The Draft Premises Standard.
Follow this link to a letter from Dr Sev Ozdowski OAM - Human Rights Commissioner - Acting Disability Discrimination Commissioner, to the Australian Federation of Disability Organisations. Quote: “Thank you for your inquiry concerning my views on the effect of the draft Premises Standard on small business and in particular small business operating out of existing buildings”.
Goodbye To Air Travel For People In Wheelchairs?
Follow this link to a media release by West Australian Dr Erik Leipoldt, concerning the status of one air carrier’s position on passengers who have a disability. Dutch-born Australian Dr Erik Leipoldt alleges that he has been stopped from flying with Malaysian Airways. He has used a wheelchair for 28 years, ever since he broke his neck in 1978 and acquired quadriplegia. Follow this link to a draft letter, should you wish to write a personal letter.
Guidelines for Inclusion of People with Disability in Conferences and Meetings.
These Guidelines provide the advice necessary to include people with disabilities in conferences, meetings, workshops and focus groups. With appropriate methods and planning this is a simple process. Follow this link to a copy of the document in Word.
- People with Disabilities comprise approximately 18% of Australia's population.
- People with disabilities come from all age groups, ethnic groups and income levels.
- People with disabilities are not 'special', but are ordinary people who must often cope with extraordinary circumstances.
- People with disabilities have the same range of personal gifts, talents, strengths, weaknesses and aspirations as the rest of society.
- The International Symbol of the 'figure in the wheelchair' is meant to represent all people with disabilities rather than just people with mobility impairments.
QDN's response to the ARA's Exemption Application.
Follow this link to read a PDF version of QDN's response to the Australian Railways Association. Listed also is QDN's summary of its response (PDF).
Anti-Discrimination Tribunal Qld., decision.
Follow this link to read a Word file listing the decision. The complainant resides in an apartment in a residential building at South Brisbane. This is a historic decision with wide ranging implications. See further detail in this article (PDF) from the Courier Mail.
Call for a review of Disability Discrimination Legislation.
Follow this link to read a PDF version of the press release.
Article on the Impact of Disability Rights.
Follow this link to read a text version.
RAIA Accessible Housing Response.
Follow this link to read the RAIA submission (PDF file).
QR Citytrain station access guide.
Please find attached the latest version of the QR Citytrain station access guide. Could you forward the guide onto others interested in disability access.
QDN's Welfare to Work Response.
Follow this link to read QDN's response to the Federal Government's Welfare to Work initiative for people with disabilities on the Disability Support Pension. Also linked is QDN's lobby kit.
QDN's Comments TGSI.
Follow this link to read the Draft for Public Comment on the Draft Australian Standard. Manual of uniform traffic control devices Part 7: Railway crossings (Revision of AS 1742.7—1993). Follow this link to read QDN's Response. BEGINNING DATE FOR COMMENT: 21 June 2005. CLOSING DATE FOR COMMENT: 23 August 2005.
Building Inclusive Schools.
A report of the review of educational services (PDF file) for students with disabilities in government schools.
TAD Launches Cheap ISP — TADAust Connect.
Follow this link to the TAD site detailing their $5/m internet service.
Have Your Say — QDN Response.
Follow this link to a word file detailing our Have Your Say response document (We Have More to Say!).
Universal Housing — QDN Response.
Follow this link to a word file detailing our working policy document and response.
QDN Media Release — Welfare Reforms.
Follow this link to read QDN's response to the 'welfare reforms' noted in the 2005-06 Budget.
Younger People in Aged Care Alliance.
The Senate transcript is the Younger People in Aged Care Alliance submission to the Senate inquiry (PDF). A Senate Inquiry recently sat in Brisbane to hear submissions around the the Aged Care Inquiry. The Younger People in Aged Care Alliance gave a verbal submission t”o the Senate Inquiry.
Here is an extract from the transcript:
“Senator KNOWLES—Mr Irons
[Office of the Public Advocate], I am a bit concerned about the way in
which you approach this problem in your presentation. You said the
problem is that the aged care subsidy is insufficient to cater for the
needs of younger people, that there needs to be a review of the CSTDA
to allow younger people access to services that they need in nursing
homes and that the rights of younger people in nursing homes need to be looked at.
I am a bit concerned about all of that because it seems to me that you have accepted as a fait accompli that young people are going to be in nursing homes, when in fact they should not be. Young people are inappropriately placed and, according to the CSTDA, they should not be in nursing homes.”
The Office of the Public Advocate has failed to make the strong point that it is not acceptable for younger people with disability to live in aged care facilities under any circumstances.
Consequently, QDN is very disappointed in the verbal submission given by the Office of the Public Advocate and in no way does QDN support this position.
Universal Housing Regulation Consultation Paper.
Please find consultation paper in Word.PDF Version is here. Responses required by the 23rd May. QDN is preparing our response
GARD. Latest Media releases and comment.
Follow this link for the media release (Word file).
Look here for a Word file containing QDN's comments.
BCC. Livability Project.
Look here for a PDF file detailing project funds for Marchant and East Brisbane Wards.
Australian Building Codes Board
In January 2005, Jaguar Consulting Pty Ltd were appointed by the Australian Building Codes Board and the Victorian Building Commission to undertake the national research project on housing accessibility. The research will provide an authoritative and comprehensive document that can be used by government and industry to plan for the future supply of accessible housing. It will evaluate the need for accessible forms of housing and detail options available to stimulate appropriate supply. As part of the research project, Jaguar Consulting Pty Ltd are developing a consultation paper which will describe the nature and purpose of the research project and identify key information requirements. It is anticipated that the consultation paper will be available in March 2005 and it will be posted on the Australian Building Codes Board and Building Commission web sites.
HREOC Inquiry
Inquiry into Equal Employment Opportunity and Participation for People with Disabilities.
Environmental vs social sustainability in housing
Press release 1. Press release 2. Press release 3 (rates rebate). All PDF format. QDN's response (link to word file).
QR SMS Service
QR has just introduced a new SMS service for people with a disability. See further details in this word file.
DSARI Report. 'Bringing Life to Legislation'.
Follow this link to find a PDF version of the report. Attached is the final formatted version of the report, 'Bringing Life to Legislation: Building a strong legislative framework for and with people with disability' that went to the Minister of Disability Services, based on the independent community consultation on changes to the Disability Services Act.
QDN Advocacy on the draft Federal Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (DDA) “Access to Premises Standard”.
Link to our latest letter as a word document.
QDN regards this as a core issue and therefore continues to lobby strongly for our members.
QDN stated that:People need access to buildings, infrastructure and precincts in order to access goods, services and information. The provision of equitable access is critical in order to maximise our social and economic performance, the latter because Australia will have maximised the performance of it assets, services, information, markets, sales and profits.
The draft 'Access to Premises Standard' must be incorporated into the Building Code of Australia without any diminution of its requirements.
Only the 90th percentile dimensions for mobility devices will allow equity of access to the built environment.
The 'Access to Premises Standard' must apply to all new buildings and any new building work.
Government is in a position to mitigate the financial impact of the 'Access to Premises Standard' on Industry.
Industry is able to absorb or reasonably pass on any costs remaining after Government mitigation action.
Members are encouraged to submit their own responses.
QDN Comments on “Towards Sustainable Housing in Queensland” Discussion Paper.
Follow this link to read QDN's comments.Sustainable Housing Discussion Paper.
Link to Towards Sustainable Housing in Queensland Discussion Paper (1.6MB PDF file).
Comments on DDA Premises Standard Options raised in a recent Discussion Paper.
QDN fully supports the draft Premises Standard issued for public comment in early 2004. One of the important achievements of the draft was the endorsement of the 90th percentile mobility device’s dimensions referred to in Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission’s (HREOC’s) advisory notes on access to premises. QDN advises that the design of spaces to accommodate the 80th percentile envelope is inadequate and limits many QDN members to participate fully in the built environment.
Follow this link for a Word document on QDN's response.Supporting Documentation is below.
Link to Building Officials Group letter.Link to Comparison of Options document.
Link to Building Access Policy Committee Officials Group Terms of Reference.
Link to a report on the Significant Issues arising from public comment, referred by BAPC for consideration by the Officials Group.
Action on Reliability Issues for Accessible Public Transport.
Members have been raising the issues of the access ramps of Brisbane City Council buses being unserviceable too frequently, and of accessible buses booked through Council not arriving. Following constructive discussion with Brisbane Transport it is advised that when booking an accessible bus, people should ask specifically for a bus “with a fully operational ramp”. Please look here for more information.
The newsletter of the RAIA — Institute of Architects.
Read this article on the Draft Disability Standards for Access to Premises. Property Council of Australia - Response to the Draft Disability Standards for Access to Premises.Read their responses to the Draft Disability Standards for Access to Premises. PC Article in PDF and Word.
Read this article in The Age. Check out the replies to The Property Council of Australia from PWD, and Dr Sev Ozdowski OAM Acting Disability Discrimination Commissioner.
SUBMISSION TO MEMBERS OF THE (TASMANIAN) LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL BY ANGUS A. DOWNIE, AM (3rd December, 2003)
Letter has some interesting observations on Wheelchair Accessible Taxis. (Converted to Word format by QDN — please advise if you find any errors or omissions).
QDN's Draft Response: Australian Building Codes Board — Draft Disability Standards for Access to Premises. Synopsis of draft documents to which QDN responded.It is most important that as many people as possible respond to the draft documents. All comments will be taken into account when the drafts are finalized and proceed to parliament. While the documents are reasonably sound any improvements that we can make will be welcome. We may be sure that many people from other sectors will be seeking to have the draft provisions diminished as much as possible.
Premises Standard (Access Code) (QDN short response) (QDN medium response) (QDN long response)
The Premises Standard will be empowered by the Disability Discrimination Act but will be located in the Building Code of Australia. It will cover new buildings and alterations to existing buildings. QDN has made strong comments on some aspects of the Standard, while endorsing the majority of the document and its process of development.
Guidelines for Premises Standard (QDN response)
The Guidelines assist in the interpretation of the Premises Standard. They have no legal standing of their own, being purely advisory.
Regulatory Impact Statement (QDN short response) (QDN long response)
The Regulatory Impact Statement analyses the costs and benefits to the nation of implementing the Premises Standard. QDN has taken a position that the benefits are underestimated and costs overestimated.
Australian Standard AS1428.1 (QDN response).
This is the primary referenced standard within the Premises Standard. It contains all the technical specifications that must be met to allow access to premises for people who have disabilities. QDN has made some criticisms while endorsing the bulk of the document.
Australian Standard AS1428.4 (QDN response).
This standard details the design and placement of Tactile Ground Surface Indicators for the orientation of people who have vision impairments. QDN has largely endorsed Sections 1 and 2 but criticised other Sections of the document.
Australian Standard AS2890.1 (QDN response).
This standard details the requirements for accessible parking spaces. QDN has made some criticisms while endorsing the bulk of the document.
Public Consultation Documents may be sourced as below.
This is the link to the ABCB site:
This has the drafts of the Premises Standard, Regulatory Impact Statement and Guidelines to Premises Standard. There are a multitude of publications here and this is confusing. You probably only need be concerned with those under the 'Access' heading that were released January 8, 2004.
This is the link to Standards Australia:
This has the drafts of AS1428.1, AS1428.4 and AS2890.1. These are under the headings DR04021, DR04020 and DR04019. These are only available in PDF, unfortunately. If this site doesn't return the correct files, try searching under their DR name, e.g. DR04019.
Read what HREOC says (12/01/04). “New Standard means better access to buildings”.