Full description Background
In June 1981 the Disabled Persons Information Bureau replaced the Handicapped Persons Information Bureau. The new name reflected contemporary attitudes toward disabled people. The Bureau was responsible for disseminating information to supporters of disabled people, advocacy for disabled people, assistance with policy formation and liaison with government departments. (Health Commission of Victoria, Annual Report, 1980/81).
Responsibility for services to people with physical and sensory disabilities was transferred to the Department of Community Services on 1 October 1985. The rationale behind this transfer was the belief that people with disabilities are not ill but require extra community support. The functions transferred included program development, administration of funding to non-government organisations, provision of an information service and policy advice. The Department of Community Services also staffed the Victorian Consultative Council on Rehabilitation, which had been established in 1981. The Council provided advice to the Minister on disability and rehabilitation issues. (Community Services Victoria, Annual Report, 1985/86).
Data time period: 1836 to 2013