SENATOR THE HON MITCH FIFIELD

ASSISTANT MINISTER FOR SOCIAL SERVICES

MANAGER OF GOVERNMENT BUSINESS IN THE SENATE
SENATOR FOR VICTORIA

MEDIA RELEASE

7 July 2014
Jacqueline Freney Patron for National Disability Awards
Paralympian and Young Australian of the Year 2014 Jacqueline Freney will be the official Patron
of International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD) and the National Disability Awards in 2014.
Assistant Minister for Social Services, Senator Mitch Fifield, said Ms Freney is an outstanding
young Australian who will help raise awareness of the significant contribution made by people with
disability to our community.
International Day of People with Disability is a day to celebrate the many contributions people
with disability make to our community, Senator Fifield said.
As an elite athlete Ms Freney is one such example, having won eight medals at the London 2012
Paralympic Games.
There are many other Australians across all fields who prove each day that disability doesnt
have to be a barrier to achieving at the highest levels.
Ms Freney said she was honoured to be chosen as Patron of IDPwD and the National Disability
Awards.
Ive always believed having a disability should not stop anyone capable from achieving
greatness, whether in the sporting arena or any other area of life, Ms Freney said.
My work in the wider community and working with Swimming Australia as a motivational speaker
to help other people with disability reach their potential shows me every day that anything is
possible.
IDPwD is a United Nations sanctioned day that occurs annually on 3 December that aims to break
down barriers and open doors to ensure people with disability have the same opportunities to
achieve their goals as any other Australian.
To nominate for the National Disability Awards, go to www.idpwd.com.au or call 1800 672 682.
TTY users please call 1800 555 677 and ask for 1800 672 682.

Media contact: Lydia Bevege | 0409 792 081 | lydia.bevege@dss.gov.au