Tomorrow - December the 3^rd - is the International Day of People with Disabilities and the State Government is encouraging South Australians to attend one of the many events being held around the State from today.

Minister for Disabilities, Ian Hunter, says that with most of us not having experienced disability in our lives, the events can give us an opportunity to come away with more understanding.

"This United Nations' Day is commemorated around the world to promote a greater awareness of people who live with disabilities and to encourage support for their dignity, rights and well-being.

"The Day also seeks to increase awareness of the benefits of people with disabilities being integrated in every aspect of our society.

"The theme this year links strongly with that goal: 'Together for a better world for all: Including persons with disabilities in development.'

"So get down to one of the events, meet people involved and see what it means to rise to the challenge of living with a disability."

Amongst the events being held to mark the Day:

Friday 2 December

• The Independent Living Centre and Continence Resource Centre are hosting a display in Rundle Mall between 9:30am and 4:30pm. Occupational Therapists and a Registered Nurse will provide information and advice and demonstrate a range of equipment and products designed to support independence.
• The Royal Adelaide Hospital is hosting the Disability Awareness Expo 11am- 2pm.
• There are free community events with BBQs, entertainment and information in areas including Noarlunga Centre, Victor Harbor, Mt Barker, Berri, Murray Bridge and Whyalla.

Saturday 3 December

• community event will be held in the Cave Gardens in Mount Gambier, including a sausage sizzle, with information and displays on disability and related services.
• A celebration of ability will be at the Playford Civic Centre. Starting at 5:30pm there will be photo exhibitions, fashion show, entertainment and a 2-course dinner.

For more detailed information on events held for IDPwD, visit http://www.idpwd.com.au/events/

Minister Hunter will also today launch a booklet - Breaking Down the Barriers - outlining State Government agencies efforts in partnership with others to improve services and increase opportunities for people living with a disability.

"Some initiatives have been quite simple ideas, like Disability Awareness Training programs or installing hand controls in Government cars, yet they have had an important and positive impact for people with disabilities and, in turn, their family, friends and colleagues," he said.

"A significant investment has also been made by a number of government departments to improve physical access to their buildings and facilities."

Members of the disability community in South Australia, their families and their carers are among invited guests to this afternoon's launch at Parliament House at 2pm.

For a copy of the booklet, visit the State Government website at www.sa.gov.au (click on Community Support and go to Disability); phone (08) 8207 0522 or email odacs@dcsi.sa.gov.au