News
National Arts and Disability Strategy provides way to inclusion
In October 2009 the Cultural Ministers Council released the National Arts and Disability Strategy, a vision for improving access and participation in the artistic and cultural activities for people with disabilities.
The Strategy is the result of extensive consultation, including 115 submissions made in response to a discussion paper released in late 2008, targeted consultation with arts and disability peak bodies, and consultation with government agencies at all levels.
The Strategy provides a framework within which jurisdictions can assess and improve existing activities. It also identifies new priority projects that could be progressed as national initiatives or by individual jurisdictions.
Accessible Arts CEO Sancha Donald said: ‘The National Arts and Disability Strategy provides clear areas of focus for both the Arts and Disability sectors to work together on.’
‘The strategy addresses many of the issues which emerged through the consultations conducted by Accessible Arts leading to the release of Speak Up: Arts and Disability Priorities for NSW.’
‘The strategy is a recognition of the contribution that people with disability have and will continue to make to the arts and it supports their human right to do so.’
The Cultural Ministers Council was established in the mid-1980s and brings together government ministers from Australia and New Zealand to collaborate on developing Australia’s arts and cultural sector.
The National Arts and Disability Strategy is available online at www.cmc.gov.au