The Minister for Human Services, Cassy O'Connor today encouraged Tasmanian's to nominate for the prestigious 2012 National Disability Awards before nominations close on 20 July 2012.

 

"These awards recognise extraordinary Australians with disability, organisations and individuals who are positively contributing to their community." Ms O'Connor said.

 

The National Disability Awards celebrate work in a number of categories including;

·     The Minister's Award for Excellence in Disability Reform

·     Emerging Leaders Award

·     Excellence in Accessible Communities Award

·     Excellence in Improving Social Participation Award

·     Excellence in Advocacy & Rights Promotion Award

·     Excellence in Improving Personal and Community Support Award

"In 2010 Tasmania's own Mary Guy was recognised for Lifetime Achievement in these Awards. There are fantastic people and organisations working to support and promote Tasmanians with disability and I encourage nominations to reward those on the National stage this year."

 

The celebration ceremony will be held on 23 November and is also part of Australia's celebrations to mark the International Day of People with Disability in December.

 

Tasmania's own state-based Awards recognising achievement in community service, the Tasmanian Community Services Excellence Awards, have just recently closed for nominations.

 

Ms O'Connor said that a number of amazing Tasmanians had been nominated for their significant contribution to our community.

 

"These nominees have worked tirelessly to support people living with disability and improve the lives of others with no thought for their own personal gain, and often at a cost to themselves," Ms O'Connor said.

 

"All nominees should feel extremely proud of their nomination, as other people can see the difference they have made for children, young people, their families and people living with disability in Tasmania.

 

"I look forward to the Celebration Ceremony to be held on 4 September where recipients of the 2012 Community Services Excellence Awards will be announced."

 

"Let's show all of Australia what amazing individuals and organisations we have in Tasmania working towards better access, inclusion and participation of people with disability by also nominating for the National Disability Awards."

 

Further information regarding the National Disability Awards can be found at www.idpwd.com.au