Inclusion and accessibility - they're two very important words when it comes to Tasmanians living with a disability.
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But amid a global pandemic and the transition to a "post-COVID-19 world", the meaning of these words suddenly look very different.
Today is International Day for People with a Disability, aimed at increasing public awareness, understanding and acceptance. It's also an opportunity to celebrate the achievements and contributions.
In Australia, people with disability represent about a fifth of the population. In Tasmania, it's about a quarter. Not to mention the family members, friends and carers alongside them.
This year, the theme for IDPwD is "Building Back Better: toward a disability-inclusive, accessible and sustainable post-COVID-19 world".
Like many things, the pandemic has shed new light on some of our greatest strengths, but also the many weaknesses that still exist within the disability sector.
When the pandemic first reached our shores in March, people living with a disability were among some of those most vulnerable.
They were also not immune to the challenges facing the rest of the population, including unemployment.
For people living with a disability, the meaning of inclusion - particularly when it comes to employment - often comes down to one thing - an opportunity.
Sadly, individuals with either physical or intellectual disabilities are often not presented with the same opportunities as everyone else. But that doesn't mean that they aren't deserving of them.
Cameron Milne is just one example of what someone living with a disability can bring to a workplace A progress has been made in this space in recent years, but there is still a lot of work to do.
With COVID challenges remaining, there has never been a more crucial time to ensure inclusion and accessibility for all people - no matter their abilities - remains a priority.
It's not about a giving them a leg up or a free ride - just a fair go.
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