consumer feedback on the victorian state disability plan 2017-2020

This submission presents consumers’ views on the next State Disability Plan. The feedback was gathered from a focus group of consumers and carers of cohealth’s mental health community support services. A prominent theme was the need to address housing affordability for people with disabilities; and addressing ongoing stigma and discrimination, including through using positive language which focuses on people’s abilities rather than disability. Suggested action and priorities for the Victorian Government included: supporting major changes in societal attitudes; ensuring that services are provided for people who are not eligible for the NDIS; addressing the financial disincentives for people with a disability when taking on paid employment; and providing incentives to employers.