Office of the Public Advocate
Public Advocate Dr Colleen Pearce with Annie Nash, Chief Executive Officer of Villamanta, Zane McKenzie, Villamanta Committee of Management and Jessica Madden artist from Art Gusto holding the artwork that was presented.
The Public Advocate, Dr Colleen Pearce, recently visited Geelong to present Villamanta Disability Rights Legal Service with the 2023 Public Advocate's Award for Outstanding Contributions to Disability Rights.
This prestigious recognition is awarded annually to an organisation that demonstrates exceptional commitment to enhancing the lives of people with disability.
Since 1990, Villamanta has been promoting the rights of people with disability through both individual and systemic advocacy.
In one recent case, a person with disability was unjustly held in hospital due to a provider’s refusal to facilitate their return home. Villamanta intervened, providing essential legal support that led to the individual securing a new home and new service provider that would actively listen and engage with their evolving needs.
Beyond individual cases, Villamanta actively engages in national dialogues on disability rights, ensuring that the voices of those with disability are heard, particularly in critical areas such as the NDIS. Their systemic advocacy has also been crucial in challenging restrictive 'gag laws', empowering individuals to share their experiences and advocate for their rights.
