Disability Inclusion and Access

Ms STINSON (Badcoe) (14:47): My question is to the Minister for Human Services. Can the minister explain why disability inclusion and access is everyone's business?

The Hon. N.F. COOK (Hurtle Vale—Minister for Human Services, Minister for Seniors and Ageing Well) (14:48): I thank the member for Badcoe for the question. She is a really fantastic advocate for her diverse community. Disability access and inclusion is everyone's business because in the end we all benefit. This is true whether you are an expectant mother navigating an uneven path to the park, an older person with a mobility device or someone feeling anxious about visiting a new place. Accessible and inclusive design supports us all. It makes life easier, safer and more welcoming for everyone.

Our State Disability Inclusion Plan, also known as Inclusive SA, is acting as the driver for that change by supporting opportunity, increasing awareness and encouraging full participation in community life. It is about breaking down barriers and making sure everyone, no matter their circumstances, can take part equally and with dignity.

Our approach to the plan has evolved since the first one in 2019 through community consultation and codesign, with a focus on practical, real-world changes that improve people's daily lives. One of the key focus areas is clear communication. That means making sure information is easy to understand, particularly for people with intellectual disability. This includes using simpler language, images and visual tools, like story boards. The benefits are huge. I think we all know the problems when people with intellectual disability are not communicated with properly.

These benefits of simple communication absolutely go beyond the disability community. These communication strategies also help people with dementia, people with language barriers, and even young children. It is a powerful example of how inclusion supports a better experience for everyone.

Employment is another vital part of the plan. A job is not just about a pay cheque. It is about a connection, a social experience and building relationships, and also it is about safeguarding in your community, self-worth and belonging. I recently employed a young man called Jesse. Jesse lives with Down syndrome. I have employed him in my electorate office. He is a local community member, a very big advocate in the area of disability.

With the right support in terms of his job and the roles that he is able to undertake, he is absolutely thriving. He contributes meaningfully. He is gaining confidence and he is growing, both personally and professionally. But truthfully, we are the lucky ones. His presence enriches our workplace and it reminds us all how much people can offer when they are given a chance. He earns award wages and contributes well above and beyond this value.

We are also investing broadly across the community in education and training for frontline staff. This includes police, corrections and other service providers, so that people with disabilities are treated with respect, understanding and compassion. Too often, people with slurred speech or unfamiliar behaviour are misunderstood or wrongly judged. This has to change, and through the plan it is changing. It is our road map to a more inclusive and fairer society.

The plan empowers people and supports our community to be better, because not everybody qualifies for the NDIS. In fact, about 2 per cent of the population qualify for the NDIS, compared to about 20 per cent who live with disability. We want to hear from the South Australian community about the plan. The plan is up for consultation, and people can have their say on YourSAy up until 26 May. Help us to shape a future in our community that is fairer, more inclusive and serves all of us better.