Morning Tea in Support of Spinal Life on International Day of People with Disability

Spinal Life Australia CEO, Mr Mark Townend AM; Members of the Board; Executive Team; staff and Support Workers; volunteers; distinguished guests; ladies and gentlemen.

I begin by acknowledging the original custodians of the lands around Brisbane, the Turrbal and Jagera people, and pay my respect to Elders, past, present, and emerging. I extend that respect to any First Nations people here with us today.

Graeme and I are thrilled to welcome you all to Government House.

We are honoured to host you today, for the second time, to mark a very important day, the International Day of People with Disability.

This year’s theme is “transformative solutions for inclusive development: the role of innovation in fuelling an accessible and equitable world”.

When thinking about transformative solutions, no better example springs to mind than the work done by Spinal Life Australia and the Accessible Australia app to help to inform users of accessibility information reliably, and quickly. What significant innovation this has been, particularly in the context of fuelling an ‘accessible and equitable world’.

This app, which provides accessibility ratings and reviews is truly ground-breaking in its goal to make our surroundings more accessible and give everyone the self-confidence to travel.

At almost two years of age, this innovative app has grown exponentially with new locations being continuously added, helping to bridge the gap towards a more inclusive nation.

As you know, Spinal Life Australia was born over 60 years ago with the goal of advocating for people living with physical disability and making a true difference in their lives.

Over those 60 years, Spinal Life Australia has evolved into a true powerhouse of empowerment, education, and support. You continue to have the future in mind and always look for a better way to do things.

I applaud Spinal Life Australia for its work towards a better tomorrow, and I know that you will continue to adapt and innovate as the world around us changes.

I acknowledge too, the Spinal Life Australia Board, staff, volunteers and members whom all contribute to this goal.

As your Patron, I will certainly do all I can to support your aim of creating a more inclusive Queensland.

On behalf of all Queenslanders, especially those living with a disability and their families, I thank you most sincerely for your service and loyalty – and wish you all a meaningful International Day of People with Disability tomorrow.

Please enjoy the warm hospitality of Government House.