Illegal parking in disability spots inconveniences people with disabilities. Only people with valid permits can use disability parking spots. Local councils issue the permits. In Victoria people who don’t have a valid permit can be fined $148. People who illegally park in disability spots might also find a photo of their car on the internet for all to see. Disability activist Samantha Connor has created an online group to shame people who illegally park their cars. The site has hundreds of pictures of illegally parked cars. Taking pictures can result in confrontations with drivers. So reporting illegal parking to councils is a safer option.
The Victorian Government is conducting an inquiry into abuse in disability services. The first stage of the inquiry has already been completed. Stage 2 is happening now. The inquiry is investigating why the abuse of people with disability is not reported. It is trying to find ways to improve systems and stop abuse from occurring. People can make submissions about their experiences to the inquiry. Speaking up about abuse can be confronting. But hopefully this will help keep people safe from abuse and neglect. Submissions to the inquiry close on 30 October 2015.
2 female friends (1 wheelchair 1 crutches) walking through park
Nominations are now open.
Do you know someone who works to improve the lives of people with a disability? Do you know of a business that’s used clever ideas to improve access, or that’s increased community awareness of disability? If you do, then nominate them for the 2014 Victorian Disability Sector awards. Nominations close this Friday and the winners will be announced in June.
The government wants to know about your experiences.
The Victorian Government wants to hear from people with a disability. Are you a person with a disability who is over 18 years old? The Victorian Government wants to know about your experiences, in your life and your community, since the State Disability Plan 2013 – 2016 started on 1 January 2013.The survey will be open until 6 November 2015.