Australia’s peak disability rights and advocacy organisation has acknowledged the work of Federal National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) Minister Bill Shorten, who announced his retirement from politics today.
People with Disability Australia (PWDA) President Marayke Jonkers said Minister Shorten had stood alongside their community in government and opposition, listening and learning from people with disability.
Ms Jonkers said the Minister’s contributions to the inception of the NDIS and the establishment of the Disability Royal Commission were key parts of his political legacy.
“We have always welcomed the Minister’s willingness to engage and collaborate with the disability sector and our community,” she said.
“We have not always agreed, but appreciate that there have been many times that the Minister has shown that he values the lived expertise of people with disability.
“It is our sincere hope that this commitment to collaboration continues and deepens with any Ministerial appointment to this portfolio in future.”
Ms Jonkers said the PWDA acknowledged the Minister would be retaining the NDIS portfolio until he left Parliament.
“We will continue to engage with the Minister and any future Ministers appointed to advocate for the best possible outcomes for people with disability and NDIS participants.”
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said through his 17 years in Parliament, Minister Shorten had “given it everything, every day”.
“Only 21 people have had the extraordinary privilege of serving as Leader of Australia’s oldest political party.
“Bill took over in 2013, united the party, re-energised the Caucus and rebuilt Labor into a strong opposition and a genuine alternative government.”
Prime Minister Albanese said he had asked Minister Shorten to remain in Cabinet until he leaves Parliament in February to take up the role of vice chancellor of the University of Canberra.
“I want him to finish the vital work he is undertaking on the NDIS, to secure the best possible outcome for people with disability, their families and carers.”
