Section 9 of the Disability Services Act 1993 requires all public authorities to prepare, and make provision for the implementation of a disability plan to improve the delivery of government services to people with disabilities. Under the Act, all disability plans were required to be prepared by 7 April 1995.

The New South Wales Disability Strategic Plan, launched in December 1994, provides a framework to assist agencies in preparing plans complying with the requirements of the Disability Services Act. The Carr Government fully supports the Disability Strategic Plan and is committed to its implementation.

The Minister responsible for the Disability Strategic Plan, the Minister for Community Services, Aged Services and Disability Services, the Hon RD Dyer MLC, has advised that a significant number of agencies have failed to submit a disability plan by the statutory deadline.

Accordingly, all Ministers are requested to ensure that agencies within their administrations that are covered by section 9 of the Disability Services Act have complied with their statutory obligations and the requirements of the Disability Strategic Plan. As stated in the Plan, it should also be ensured that the implementation of each agency's disability plan is included as a performance measure for relevant senior executives and managers.

Ministers are reminded that disability plans should be implemented gradually and should be generally cost neutral. Where necessary, funds for the implementation of disability plans should be made available by re-prioritising current programs so that any expenditures are met within existing resources.

Disability plans should be submitted to the Office on Disability in the Ageing and Disability Department, which is responsible for co-ordinating the initiative and assisting agencies in developing appropriate strategies. Further information may be obtained from Mr Stefan Couani, Senior Policy Officer, on (02) 367 6857.

Bob Carr,
Premier.