I would like you to give special recognition and support to people with disabilities in NSW through the World Assembly of Disabled People's International, to be held in Sydney during December 1994.

Because of its potential importance to our State, 1 write to seek your co-operation and support in making the event a truly successful and memorable occasion.

The World Assembly is a week long event, and has been secured by People with Disabilities (NSW) against bids from Australian States and other countries.

1. The World Assembly was held in Vancouver last year in conjunction with Decade for Disability celebrations. It drew between 2000-3000 participants.

The Sydney Congress is to be held in two parts:

1. The formal World Assembly, which will draw leading political figures, eg Archbishop Desmond Tutu.
2. A program to be offered by Australia aimed at extending the conference and promoting disability issues. Its focus will be on presenting New South Wales in the most favourable light possible. Australia's program contributions will feature:
   
   (a) Youth;
   (b) Indigenous People;
   (c) the Family; and
   (d) the Arts (or cultural development).

The Commonwealth Government, through Department of Health, Housing, Local Government and Community *Services has allocated $250,000 towards the Assembly, particularly towards travel costs of Third World delegates.. Other funds will be secured from United Nations bodies, and from a variety of service and corporate agencies.

The total cost of the event is estimated to be between $350 - $400,000 which will include a substantial commitment of "in kind" support from a variety of State Government sources. Some examples of potential support might include the provision of technological advice and of tourism information to delegates.

The NSW Government's involvement is being co-ordinated by the Office on Disability. Would you please ensure that your agencies contact Dr Michael Steer, Director, Office on Disability, Social Policy Directorate on 367 6855, with the name of your nominee who will:

(a) co-ordinate your agency's response, and;
(b) attend planning meetings.

John Fahey
Premier