The inaugural National Disability Awards present the opportunity to recognise the achievements of people with disability and contributions to the disability sector in the local community.

Federal Member for Gwydir, John Anderson, welcomed the announcement of the opening of nominations for the awards, which will close on 20 July 2007.

“There are five award categories, Community Contribution Award, Young Community Contribution Award, Inclusion Award, Go Getter Award and the Personal Achievement Award,” Mr Anderson said.

“These awards will recognise people with disability, or those who care for people with disability, who have overcome adversity to achieve personal goals. Other nominations could include people with disability who have made a significant contribution to their community; as well as people who have made a significant contribution to improving the lives of people with disability.

“The National Disability Awards will be presented annually from this year and the recipients of the awards will receive national recognition and publicity.

“Award recipients will be announced at a gala awards ceremony in Canberra, on International Day of People with Disability, 3 December 2007.

“International Day of People with Disability is a worldwide celebration showcasing skills, abilities, contributions and achievements of people with disability, through involving individuals and the broader community in raising awareness and promoting positive images relating to disability issues.

“By nominating someone for the National Disability Awards, every person in our community can celebrate and recognise people with disability and those who support them,” Mr Anderson said.

Further information regarding the awards is available by calling 1800 677 427 or visiting the website www.idpwd.com.au/awards