The Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission is calling for expressions of interest for people to join our Disability Reference Group (DRG) for 2012 – 2014.

What is the DRG?

The DRG:
• assists the Commission to identify priority human rights and systemic discrimination issues affecting people with a disability;
• provides advice and assistance to the Commission on the development of policies and procedures towards ensuring the delivery of appropriate and effective services to people with a disability;
• provides guidance to the Commission on the implementation of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and advice under the Victorian Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities Act, and
• provides a user perspective on the ongoing implementation of the Commission’s Strategic Plan.

How does the DRG work?

The DRG has up to 16 members. It meets four times a year. Members are appointed for two years. Members’ travel, accommodation, meal and support costs are covered by the Commission. The DRG expenses policy is available on request.

Who should be involved?

The Commission is keen to ensure representation of:
• people with disability
• disability advocates, service providers and family carers of people with disability
• young people with disability
• older people with disability
• Indigenous people with disability
• people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds with disability
• gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, intersex and queer people with disability
• people with disability living in rural and regional Victoria.

How do I apply or find out more?

People are asked to apply in writing via email or mail, however you are also welcome to apply over the phone. If you are applying in writing, please send a short letter outlining:

• why you are interested in joining the DRG
• your experience of disability and any other attributes detailed above
• any organisations and/or networks in which you are involved.

Please also provide a daytime phone number and an email or postal address.

The closing date for applications is 24 February 2012. Short-listed applicants will be invited to interview in March. All applicants will be notified in writing of the outcome of their application.

For more information or to submit an application please contact:

Priscilla White, Administration Assistant
Phone: (03) 9032 3430
Email: priscilla.white@veohrc.vic.gov.au  or
Mail: 3/204 Lygon Street Melbourne Victoria 3053

For more information about the Commission see: www.humanrightscommission.vic.gov.au

This information is also available in Braille and large font. Please contact Priscilla if you would like this information in one of these formats.

Confidentiality/Privacy statement: All information collected will be kept confidential. The Commission complies with Victorian privacy laws and the confidentiality provisions of the Equal Opportunity Act 2010. Our privacy policy is available at www.humanrightscommission.vic.gov.au/privacy  or call us on 1300 891 858 and a copy of our policy can be sent out to you.