The Maroondah Journal has reported on the successful launch of Campaign Enable with its key theme of equal access for all.

More than 20 disability campaigners met outside Eastland shopping centre, Ringwood wearing “I have a disability and I vote” T-shirts as part of Campaign Enable.

Campaign Enable, which is being organised, managed and conducted by people with a disability, through the Australian Federation of Disability Organisations, aims to achieve three key goals in the context of the Federal election:

• Financial help for people with a disability looking for work or trying to keep a job.
• The development of a National Disability Employment Strategy.
• The introduction of an Access to Premises Standard.

Maroondah councillor Alex Makin said the campaign sought to make it possible for everyone to take full part in society. This is not a campaign about special treatment – it is a campaign about ensuring that everyone has equal access and inclusiveness within society.

Accessibility issues needs to be addressed so that all people in the community can fully participate in society. While some of these issues can be addressed at a local and state level, there is also the need for Federal leadership to ensure equal access for all.