The lack of discussion on disability during last week’s Q&A was “disappointing and telling”, according to Melba CEO Hayley Dean.
Despite having Minister for Health Mark Butler and Shadow Assistant Minister for the NDIS Hollie Hughes on the panel, people with lived experience of disability were completely absent from the conversation. This was a major oversight, especially considering the importance of the NDIS and broader health issues that directly impact people with disability.
“What’s even more disappointing is that people with disability weren’t represented in the audience and weren’t acknowledged in the discussion at all,” Hayley said.
“Given the significant challenges the disability community faces – including accessibility, support services, employment and ongoing changes to the NDIS – this silence speaks volumes.
“(Host) Patricia Karvelas had a prime opportunity to raise these issues, particularly with a Shadow Minister responsible for the NDIS on the panel. The fact she didn’t highlights a bigger problem: disability is still not seen as a priority in mainstream political debate or media coverage.”
With the election fast approaching, it is important people with disability are not sidelined, Hayley said.
“The policies and decisions made by government directly shape lives and it’s critical that people with disability are consulted and remain front and centre in public discussion.
“We need to demand better representation, more inclusive conversations and real commitment from leaders to address the issues that matter.”
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