Voice of disabled

By EMMA SUN
A CROWD of more than 60 people gathered in Mount Evelyn yesterday (Monday) to rally for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).
Disability organisation Melba Support Services gathered its clients and their friends and family in Wray Crescent at about 10am, where speeches were made by CEO Glenn Foard, Evelyn MP Christine Fyffe, Yarra Ranges councillor Tim Heenan and local identity Ron Weiss.
The group then embarked on their trip to Federation Square, where the Victoria-wide rally was held, to join thousands of others fighting for the same cause.
Sherbrooke resident John O’Donnell said he and his wife Judy currently received assistance from Melba Support Services for their son Antony, which wasn’t the case for many with disabilities, which was why they were backing the rally.
“We’re lucky that we’re currently worry-free,” he said.
“But for two years there was a big gap in support and this is what the NDIS is about – it’s about helping the people in that situation.”
Mr Foard said Melba was proud to join with thousands of other disability campaigners to call for the introduction of the NDIS.
“The time for waiting is over,” he said.
“A NDIS is a vital social reform that will deliver much needed support to people with disabilities and their families.
“Expectations are high. Many individuals and families are at crisis point. People want to see concrete signs this reform is underway.”
Billanook Ward councillor Tim Heenan said it was important that the government did not put the NDIS in the pigeonhole for another few more years.
“Disabled people are probably one of the most marginalised in the area – people with disability have no-one to act on their behalf,” he said.
“It’s great to see that we as a society aren’t trying to slip this under the carpet any more because it’s just happened for too long.
“We need to ’fess up to our responsibilities and make sure they’ve got the opportunity to excel in their own lives.”
Evelyn MP Christine Fyffe said Australians generally did a good job supporting those who were unable to support themselves and this should be no different.
“If you are sick you get access to health care. If you are elderly and don’t have savings to support yourself you get a pension. If you are unemployed you get government assistance while you look for work,” she said.
“But if you have a disability you face a seemingly endless waiting list with no way of knowing when, or even if support will be made available.”
“Everybody counts – your voice must be heard.”
Ron Weiss urged the crowd to stand up and fight for their rights.
“We all need the same rights and respect and we need the NDIS to help us to become equal with other Australians.”
Mr Foard said now was the time for action.
“We want to see an agreement between the Commonwealth and the States to fund a NDIS and have legislation to establish the scheme introduced into Federal Parliament.”
For more information, visit www.everyaustraliancounts.com.au or call Melba Support Services on 9760 8200.