Media release (Victoria):
Footscray Centrelink supports the MIRAs

Tuesday, 30 November 2010

Footscray Centrelink is excited to join with Maribyrnong City Council and Footscray Community Arts Centre to present the inaugural Maribyrnong Inclusive Recognition Awards (MIRAs) in celebration International Day of People with Disability on 3 December.

The award ceremony will be held at the Bluestone Church facility, Hyde Street, Footscray and will feature activities, music, food and information.

Centrelink’s Jeanette Robertson said International Day of People with Disability is the perfect time to recognise the valuable contribution of those living with disability and to remind Australians with disabilities about the range of support available from Centrelink.

“With almost one in 6 Australians affected by disability, it’s important that people with disability in our community are supported and included,” Jeanette said.

“The MIRAs are as much about showcasing the achievements people in the community with a disability as they are about the individuals and groups who promote access and inclusion for people with disability – the 7 award categories span sport, arts, personal achievement and inclusive business practices.”

Having worked in the disability sector for over 20 years, Jeanette said she’s been fortunate to witness the valuable contribution people with disability make to the community when given the opportunity.

“Much of the time, all it takes is an opportunity to test yourself, to try different things and to see where your skills lie – the MIRAs highlight the importance of this,” Jeanette said.

“Centrelink provides support, information and referral to those living with disability, and helps job seekers with disability to find employment, training and rehabilitation, so we are proud to support these awards.

“I hope that by highlighting role models within the Footscray community we will create more opportunities for people with disability to explore their capabilities and actively participate in sport, art and employment.”

To find out more about the range of payments and services to assist people who are ill, injured or have a disability, refer to Illness or disability, call 13 2717 or visit your local Centrelink CSC.

Media opportunity

What: Maribyrnong Inclusion Recognition Awards

When: Friday, 3 December 2010, 11 am (main awards and guest speaker at 11:30 am)

Where: Bluestone Church facility (next to the Maribyrnong Council Chambers), Hyde Street, Footscray (Melway ref. 42 D5)

For more information, telephone the relevant Centrelink media contact.