News from Canberra is that overnight Australia ratified the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. The Convention is an international treaty that identifies the rights of persons with disabilities as well as the obligations on States parties to the Convention to promote, protect and ensure those rights. 

The Convention aims to promote a global community in which all people with a disability are equal and active citizens. It is guided by principles of non-discrimination and full and effective participation and inclusion in society. So far, it has been ratified by 29 other countries.

Ratifying the Convention shows the Federal Government's international commitment to ensuring people with disability are treated equally. Australia will also be able to participate in the inaugural election of the Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities who will oversee the implementation of the Convention.

Congratulations to the Federal Government as well as the other Government and Non-Government stakeholders who worked together to see this important initiative achieved.