December, 2024
Dear Members and Supporters,
We are almost at the end of 2024. In many ways, it’s been a tough year with the disability advocacy sector facing some serious challenges while also trying to navigate a complex reform agenda around both the review of the NDIS and federal and state and territory responses to the Disability Royal Commission.
Awaiting confirmation of new advocacy program
Despite numerous overtures and requests from DANA (and others, including members), we are still yet to officially hear that the new advocacy program won’t start until mid-2026, exactly what arrangements will be in place in the meantime or how the additional promised Disability Royal Commission monies of $39.7m over 4 years will be allocated. It is, however, now highly likely that the current NDAP program will be rolled over for another 12 months, but it would be a lovely holiday season present to have this (and more) confirmed in writing. In any case, we will continue working with our members to shape the new advocacy program through our Future of Advocacy Project. Our work with members will recommence in early 2025.
Through all this, it is fair to say our sector has shown incredible resilience and determination and I also want to acknowledge and thank our members for your work as well as your time and contributions to DANA’s work this year, ensuring that our work is informed by the work of our advocates and that people with disability are leading the changes that impact their lives.
Annual Report, out now.
If you haven’t seen our Annual Report, I would recommend you take a look. It is packed with the important work that DANA has done this year, including the national funding campaign, the Priorities Project, the formative work of the NCDA and our growing Secretariat role: see our report here.
New funding for several projects led by disability organisations
I’m pleased to share news that the Federal Government has announced new funding for several projects led by disability organisations and partnerships—including DANA. Alongside Inclusion Australia, Alliance 20, and the Melbourne Disability Institute, we’ve received funding for the Disability Dialogue project. This unique initiative, led by people with disability, prioritises lived experience to shape and drive reform. For the first time, instead of waiting to be consulted, we’re taking the lead. This approach is already making a difference, and we look forward to engaging DANA members to amplify the most marginalised voices. Stay tuned for more details in 2025.
We are also currently developing criteria for member involvement in the disability employment advocacy and information program with Expressions of Interest to go out to members in January 2025. The program will provide advocacy and information to support people with high support needs, their families and carers to understand their rights and options at work.
New submission on Foundational Supports
We have just submitted and published our response to the Foundational Supports consultation: A strong foundation for building ‘Foundational Supports’. I’d like to extend my thanks to all members who contributed to our issues paper on Foundational Supports as well. Your input during this period of extensive consultation has been invaluable. We’re very mindful of the added workload on advocacy organisations and we are grateful for your commitment.
What’s coming up in 2025
Next year is already shaping up as a busy time, with both the implementation of existing NDIS legislation and the next tranche of reforms in the offing in early 2025. We have already flagged that the timetable for the implementation is at odds with the government’s commitment to co-design, and good public policy outcomes.
In a significant milestone for the sector, the Not-for-Profit Sector Development Blueprint was delivered to the Federal Government at the end of November. As a member of the Blueprint Expert Reference Group (BERG), DANA has helped shape this 10-year roadmap for a stronger, more sustainable NFP sector. We’ve joined other BERG members in calling for a detailed response from the government by March 31, 2025. You can read more on our blog.
We’re gearing up for a busy start to 2025, with our campaigning efforts in full swing as we await an election call. Building on the work of our Speak Up! campaign this year, we’re planning to mobilise our member community on a much larger scale, ensuring our voices are heard louder and more effectively by those in Canberra.
Finally, a quick reminder: our remote DANA team will be taking a well-earned break from 5:00 PM on December 24th, returning on January 2nd.
I wish you all have a safe and restorative holiday season.
Regards,
Jeff Smith
CEO, Disability Advocacy Network Australia (DANA)
