By JOHN VAN KLAVEREN
Premier’s launch emotion
“THIS is a great day for Geelong.”
That was the recurring theme emphasised by Prime Minister Tony Abbott, Premier Denis Napthine and assistant social services Minister Mitch Fifield at the launch of the National Disability Insurance Agency on Wednesday.
Mr Napthine described the launch as a “revolution for people with disabilities”. Mr Abbott said it was a “watershed in our society”.
The premier’s voice broke, as it has in the past, when he welcomed the launch both as a politician and as the parent of an adult person with a disability.
“It puts the person with a disability in charge. The person with a disability has the power and opportunity to get the services they want and need,” Mr Naphtine said.
“Geelong has a long and great culture of compassion and care for people with a disability going back for decades.
“Recognition that people with disability are an integral part of our society and giving them opportunity in the greater Geelong society.
“Geelong has been one of the innovators and leaders in this area. Having the headquarters here will benefit from the experience of Geelong as a community that does provide opportunities for people with disability.”
Mr Napthine said the NDIA would generate up to $35 million a year for the local economy.
The NDIA would also benefit from co-location with the TAC and the yet-to-be relocated WorkCover agency to create a “centre of excellence”, he said.
Mr Abbott said the NDIA would offer a “better way of living” for almost half a million Australians.
“We want to ensure everyone in our society has the opportunity to reach his or her potential,” he said.
“People with disabilities should be in the heart of our lives and they should be in the centre of our society.
“Geelong’s had some downs as well as some ups recently and I hope this is a good day for the great city of Geelong.”
Sen Fifield said the NDIA was “core government business and we are fully committed to the full roll out and to learn the lessons from the trial sites”.
