INTERIM DISABILITY COMMISSIONER ESTABLISHED

JO PALMER MLC, Minister for Disability Services

The Rockliff Liberal Government is committed to delivering contemporary and effective disability legislation to provide safeguards for Tasmanians with a disability.

The 2023-24 Tasmanian Budget continues the Government’s careful and considered investment into establishing the Office of the Disability Commissioner, with $900,000 over the forward estimates.

Disability Services Minister Jo Palmer said the Government had committed $1.2 million over four years in 2021-22 to establish the Office of the Disability Commissioner and a further $400,000 in 2022-23 for the first ever Tasmanian Disability Services Commissioner.

“In January, Mary Mallet was appointed as the Interim Disability Commissioner to establish the Office, including further work to scope the Commissioner’s role and functions, the resources required, and the relationship to other statutory offices,” Minister Palmer said.

This Budget targets every dollar to build a strong economy and a safe, caring community.

“Our Government continues to work on the new Disability Inclusion Bill, with consultation expected to begin in coming months,” Minister Palmer said.

“This Bill will deliver an opportunity for the community to provide feedback on the role of the first ever Tasmanian Disability Commissioner, including the types of activities they will undertake, and the safeguards they will provide to Tasmanians with disability.

“Importantly, the ongoing budget for the Office, and implementation of the new Act, will be determined once the Bill is finalised and will be announced in the 2024-25 State Budget.”