Gillard visits Future Fund Project

08 July 2008

Deputy Prime Minister Julia Gillard made a recent visit to a project supported by the Rio Tinto WA Future Fund to learn more about its forward-thinking approach to assisting disadvantaged people in the community.

The project, managed by DADAA (Disability in the Arts, Disadvantaged in the Arts WA), is based on gathering evidence about the impact of arts programmes on improving the well-being of people with disabilities or mental health issues.

Future Fund Chairman Sam Walsh attended the visit at DADAA’s Fremantle office and gallery, along with other representatives from government and the disability and arts sectors.  He said Western Australia’s current boom was a practical long-term opportunity for the business community and government to improve the lives of the disabled.

“This project is a step towards giving individuals the tools and experiences they need to feel confident about engaging in the community and improving their lives that may lead to a wider range of opportunities in the workforce or otherwise.

“At a time when nearly all companies are searching for more employees there should be more scope than ever before to help people with disabilities to play a fuller role in the community around them and possibly join, rejoin or play a greater role in the workforce.”

Julia Gillard’s visited DADAA as part of her Social Inclusion portfolio.  The government’s social inclusion agenda aims to combat economic and social disadvantage in Australia so that everyone is able to share in the nation’s prosperity.  It highlights the ability to secure a job, access services and make social connections as a necessary part of this.

Member for Hasluck Sherryn Jackson MP, DADAA Board Member Peter Jones, Deputy Prime Minister Julia Gillard, Rio Tinto Iron Ore Chief executive Sam Walsh, Federal Member for Fremantle Melissa Parkes, DADAA Executive Director David Doyle.