- Western Australians celebrate International Day of People with Disability today
- More than 100 inclusive activities and events will take place across the State
- Events have shared in more than $100,000 of funding through the Cook Government's grants program
Western Australians are today celebrating International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD), which is held annually on 3 December.
This United Nations-recognised day celebrates and acknowledges the contribution of people with disability around the world.
Western Australia's theme for IDPwD in 2024 is 'Confident, Capable and Creative: Come with Me', which highlights the strength, resilience and capability of people with disability, and recognises the value of driving change together as an inclusive community.
There will be 105 inclusive events and activities held across WA this week, to celebrate and recognise people with disability.
Disability Services Minister Don Punch is attending several IDPwD events today, including the National Disabilities Services WA Lunch for International Day of People with Disability, where he will reiterate the importance of this year's theme.
The annual luncheon is a highlight of the calendar, with around 700 attendees including people with disability, the disability sector, as well as private, corporate and government sectors.
The Cook Government has contributed more than $100,000 towards events across the State through the IDPwD grants program, supported by the Department of Communities.
Highlights of this year's event program in the metropolitan area include an 'All Abilities Active' event at Armadale Fitness and Aquatic Centre, a free movie screening and panel discussion at Luna Leederville, and a Storytellers Festival in Joondalup.
In the regions, there will be an all-abilities activity day delivered by the Shire of Katanning, a three-day 'Empower Ability' event hosted by the Shire of Dardanup, and a 'Wheatbelt's Got Talent' competition in Northam, to name a few.
For more information on IDPwD and to find out how to get involved in an event near you visit International Day of People with Disability .
As stated by Disability Services Minister Don Punch:
"International Day of People with Disability and the events and activities held around Western Australia to mark it are always a highlight of the calendar as an opportunity for inclusion, celebration and recognition, not to mention fun.
"It's estimated that 515,600 people, or 19 per cent of Western Australians, live with some form of disability.
"The Cook Government is committed to building a more inclusive WA, where people with disability are engaged and able to live as they choose in a community where everyone belongs."
