Gold Coast forum focuses on future for people with a disability

The local disability community will come together today to share its vision for a better future for people with a disability at the Shared Visions regional forum in Surfers Paradise.

Disability Services Minister Warren Pitt said about 150 service providers, government representatives and other stakeholders from all areas of the disability community — including people with a disability, their families and carers — were expected to attend the event.

“Today’s forum follows the success of two Shared Visions state conferences which were held on the Gold Coast in 2005 and 2006,” Mr Pitt said.

“This is the first year that a series of regional forums will be held across Queensland, enabling more people in more places to share their visions for the future.

“It’s an opportunity for locals with an interest in the disability sector to share their experiences and work together for a better quality of life for people with a disability.”

Mr Pitt said today’s presentations would be led by local representatives showcasing various initiatives — from disability in schools and the workplace, to disability and domestic violence, and meeting the needs of older carers.

“We want to identify strengths and opportunities for the local disability community, and build a better future for people with a disability,” he said.

The Gold Coast event is the first of 11 Shared Visions regional forums to be held across Queensland between July and October.

A summary from each regional forum will be posted on the Shared Visions website.

“At the end of all forums, a report on the outcomes and discussions will be published to help fine-tune the focus of the next state conference planned for 2008,” Mr Pitt said.

“The visions that we share today will help us all to shape better communities for tomorrow.”

Media contact: Minister Pitt’s Office 3235 4280