Disability Services Minister Sheila McHale has announced proposed changes to legislation and regulations aimed at improving disability access and services. One of the changes would see businesses and organisations contracted by public authorities required to either establish a disability access plan or adhere to the disability access plan of the relevant authority. The recommendations, which have received in-principle support from State Cabinet, come from a recent review of the Disability Services Act, conducted by South Metropolitan MLC Sue Ellery. Disability Services Minister Sheila McHale said she strongly supported the review's findings. One in five Western Australians has a disability and one in 10 is the carer of a person with a disability. "It is unacceptable that in spite of the high numbers of people in our community who are affected by disability, many people still experience barriers to their participation in the community," Ms McHale said. "This Government is committed to working towards a welcoming and inclusive community for people with disabilities." Disability Service plans will be renamed Disability Access and Inclusion Plans to better reflect their intent. In addition to the new requirements for contractors, there will be greater scrutiny of public authorities to ensure they are meeting their obligations. Public authorities will be required to report annually to the Disability Services Commission on the implementation of their plans. Authorities not in compliance with the Act will be identified in an annual report to State Parliament. The Disability Services Commission will provide training opportunities and introduce a model access charter for businesses and other non-Government agencies choosing to develop their own plans. "Disability Service plans have made a significant difference to people with disabilities and these changes will strengthen them," Ms McHale said. The Minister also announced the reappointment of Barry MacKinnon as chair of the Disability Services Commission Board and the appointment of Debbie Karasinski as chair of the Ministerial Advisory Council on Disability. In line with the review recommendations, both the Disability Services Commission Board and the Ministerial Advisory Council will be retained. Minister's office 9213 6900 http://www.mediastatements.wa.gov.au/media/...OpenDocument The Hon. Sheila McHale MLA Minister for Community Development, Women's Interests, Seniors and Youth; Disability Services; Culture and the Arts Statement Released: 17-Dec-2002 Portfolio: Disability Services ###