Disability Information and Advocacy Discussion Paper

The Hon. JOHN RYAN: My question without notice is addressed to the Minister for Disability Services. Has the Minister made plans to publicly release the disability information and advocacy discussion paper? Have groups been waiting since September 2002 for the release of this critical discussion paper? Has the Government made plans to provide funding for existing advocacy groups so that they can provide ongoing advocacy and information to people with disabilities?

The Hon. JOHN DELLA BOSCA: The Hon. John Ryan is drawing a long bow in relation to my culpability for any management of affairs in Disability Services. As he is well aware, I have been Minister for Disability Services for a little under six months, but he seems to be attempting to hold me accountable for events that occurred in 2002. The New South Wales Government recognises that access to advocacy and information services is important for people with a disability, their families and their carers. More than $5.9 million will be spent on disability advocacy and information services across New South Wales in this financial year. This includes services targeting rural and regional areas and people from culturally diverse backgrounds, funded with the $1 million of growth money allocated in 2001.

A position paper outlining the future directions for reform of the disability advocacy and information service sector is being finalised and will be released as soon as practicable. There will be an opportunity for public comment on the paper, which will be considered in the development of a new policy framework for disability advocacy and information services. I can advise that I have approved an extension of funding to all providers until 30 June 2006 to provide security to advocacy and information services while the reform process is being finalised.