Cash cow to stop discriminatory bull
10/06/2014
Dignity for Disability MLC Kelly Vincent has welcomed today’s state government budget announcement funding the Disability Justice Plan, but urges the government to get on with the action required – legislative and cultural change – so that people with disability can access the justice system like the rest of the community.
“There can be little doubt that this commitment of funding is a win for the disability community, but it is important that the government doesn’t rest on its laurels with this announcement,” says Kelly Vincent.
“There are still many laws that discriminate against people with disability in evidence collection. Also, the cultural prejudices of our very traditional police, courts and legal systems need to be overcome through community education.
“We must remember that what is considered best practice now is really only best practice yet, and keep searching for new and innovative means to give people with disability equality before the law.
“The collaborative work that Dignity for Disability and the disability sector has done with the government resulting in the Disability Justice Plan shows what can be achieved when past politics are put aside and people are put first. I hope that this approach can continue beyond the announcement of the Plan.
“I hope that when the relevant Bills are introduced to Parliament in the coming months, MPs of all persuasions avoid politicking on this issue and we pass the legislation expeditiously.
“I am also optimistic that the Communications Assistant Scheme will provide adequate support for people with complex communication needs throughout their journey in the criminal justice system and expect that extra resources will be allocated by the government if demand requires this.
“The Disability Justice Plan, while welcome, is a milestone that should never have had to exist. It is outrageous that in 2014, the human rights of people living with disability when accessing the courts or police are not automatically considered,” said Ms Vincent.
