WA celebrated International Day of People with Disability by proudly hosting almost 500 West Australians on Friday 2 December, including people with disability, the disability sector and government, at a sold-out Lunch at Crown Perth.

The theme for the Lunch was ‘Transforming Our World’ and promoted the removal of all types of barriers, including those relating to the physical environment, information and communications technology or attitudinal.

"This year’s program featured a diverse group of speakers and performers with disability who shared their stories and achievements," said Julie Waylen, NDS WA State Manager.

The Lunch was officially opened by the Hon. Donna Faragher MLC, Minister for Planning, Disability Services. During her speech the Minister announced that the State and Commonwealth governments had reached an agreement on the parameters of WA-administered NDIS which would meet Commonwealth conditions for national consistency, with the NDIS transition to begin on 1 July 2017. (Final negotiations for a bilateral agreement between the two Governments are yet to be concluded.)

We were excited to share some of the excitement from the 2016 Rio Paralympic Games with Australian Sport Hall of Fame Inductee, Priya Cooper OAM, and local Paralympians Sharon Jarvis, Brad Scott, Colin Harrison and Russell Boaden who joined us for a panel discussion facilitated by Steve Butler.

Catia Malaquias founder of 'Starting with Julius' and Ambassador Robyn Lambird spoke about the powerful role advertising and media have in shaping the consciousness and behaviour of individuals and how 'recasting' the way society thinks about disability can accelerate inclusion and contribute to the elimination of attitudinal barriers and social injustices that diminish human rights.

Local artist Jacob 'Shakey’ Butler created a live artwork during the Lunch and spoke about how pursuing his passion and sharing his love of art with people with disability has transformed his world. Greg Barr wowed on the didgeridoo as part of the Welcome to Country with Shaun Nannup, and the event kicked off with a stunning performance by the Variety Youth Choir. Masters of Ceremonies Steve Butler and Ben Cox did an exceptional job and provided the audience with some hilarious interactions.

Ability Centre, the Disability Services Commission, Nulsen Disability Services, RAC and Senses Australia were proud sponsors and we thank them for their tremendous support. We also thank Lotterywest for supporting 160 people with disability and their companions to attend the Lunch.