Western Australian events celebrating International Day of People with Disability receive government funding

The Western Australian Government is helping to fund 100 events and activities across the state to celebrate International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD).

Some of the highlights of this year’s program include a ‘Picnic with the Roos’ at Caversham Wildlife Park along with open days showing off modified sports like netball and water polo, and a dance party with tunes from 19-year-old DJ Jake, who lives with a physical disability.

Funding of $100,000 has been extended to 97 organisations for 100 inclusive events and activities to mark IDPwD.

The United Nations-sanctioned day is celebrated every year on 3rd December and aims to increase public awareness, understanding, and acceptance of people with disability and celebrate their achievements and contributions.

The State Government invited organisations from across Western Australia to apply for up to $1000 each to stage events on or around the day.

Of the 100 IDPwD events and activities being held, 45 will be in regional areas including South Hedland, Bunbury, Kalgoorlie, and Walpole.

The State theme for IDPwD in 2022 is Leading the Change, to galvanise a commitment to opportunity, inclusion, and access for everyone.

WA Disability Services Minister Don Punch advised “It’s estimated that 411,500 Western Australians lives with disability – that’s one person in every five.

“The State Government’s support of International Day of People with Disability is an important part of building inclusive communities.

“The State Government is committed to building a more inclusive Western Australia, where people with disability are engaged and able to live as they choose in a community where everyone belongs.

“Our support for IDPwD is an integral part of that.

“All the events and activities being held for IDPwD help raise awareness of people with disability and the vital part we all have in building an inclusive community.”

The Department of Communities funded Developmental Disability WA to administer the grants process.

The full list of successful recipients is available at wa.gov.au/government/publications/international-day-of-people-disability-idpwd-grant-recipients.