The 2021 Victorian Disability Awards are currently open and East Gippslanders are being encouraged to nominate outstanding individuals and groups who have increased the rights and participation of people with a disability.

Member for Gippsland East and Shadow Minister for Disability, Tim Bull, said the awards celebrate and acknowledge those people who have a passion and vision for the advancement of people with a disability to achieve their life goals, through upholding their rights and choices in a way that promotes inclusion.

“It is important that we recognise this essential network of people and organisations who on a daily basis are supporting people with a disability and their carers,” Mr Bull said.

“These awards recognise the efforts of those individuals, teams, organisations and businesses for the significant contribution they are making to enriching the lives of people with a disability.

Mr Bull said he has great admiration for the commitment of disability support workers, volunteers and businesses in helping ensure people with a disability in East Gippsland can achieve their goals and participate within the community.

“These awards provide a unique opportunity for this commitment and valuable community contribution to be acknowledged and honoured.”

Members of the public can make a nomination in seven different categories including:

Emerging Leader; Excellence in Creating Inclusive Communities; Excellence in Employment Outcomes; Excellence in Promoting Health; Housing and Wellbeing; Excellence in Promoting Rights, Fairness and Safety; Volunteer and the Lifetime Achievement award.

Nominations close 4 April, 2021 and award winners will be announced at an awards ceremony in July.

For guidelines and nomination forms visit dhhs.vic.gov.au/disabilityawards

Caption: Gippsland Nationals MP Tim Bull at Bullock Island where a partnership between the East Gippsland Specialist School, Gippsland Ports, DELWP and East Gippsland Shire resulted in the construction of new picnic tables.