19/11/96
Aboriginal people with disabilities who live in the cross-border central desert area of Australia can expect better access to specialised equipment and services through a State Government initiative.
Disability Services Minister Kevin Minson said Western Australia would take the lead in establishing an inter-Government project linking the South Australian, Northern Territory and Federal Governments to streamline service provision to remote Aboriginal communities in that region.
Mr Minson said difficulties faced by people who lived in cross-border communities were highlighted at a recent national disability services meeting in Alice Springs.
"Delegates from the Disability Services Commission met with representatives from the Ngaanyatjarra Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara (NPY) Women's Council Aboriginal Corporation, who outlined the serious difficulties experienced by people with disabilities and their families," he said.
"Many of these people live within communities which regularly move throughout an area covering 350,000 square kilometres.
"A number of Governments and their agencies are responsible for providing appropriate services to these people, but many people are missing out, due to their nomadic lifestyle and the inaccessibility of some communities.
"In particular, they are unable to access appropriate equipment, therapy, transport and accommodation."
Mr Minson said despite the logistical difficulties, Aboriginal people with disabilities from remote communities had the same rights as other people to services and supports.
"We will be working together with community representatives and Government agencies to ensure services are reaching the areas of greatest need," he said.
Media contact: Caroline Lacy 222 9595
