Extracts from Bush Talks

- Chris Sidoti
Human Rights Commissioner and Acting Disability Discrimination Commissioner

PROVIDING BASIC HEALTH SERVICES

The States Parties to the present Covenant recognize the right of everyone to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health. [International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights article 12]

Inadequate, inaccessible and diminishing health services emerged as the principal concern of participants in Bush Talks meetings and in submissions. Yet there is a greater need in rural and remote areas.

Commission project

The Commission’s project work on rural health will be determined in consultation with experts in rural and remote area health. It will focus on innovative community initiatives to respond to country health needs. It will aim

1. 1. to locate the delivery of health services within a human rights framework
2. 2. to identify successful rural and remote community initiatives and the factors contributing to their success
3. 3. to publicise the initiatives so that others are informed and inspired.

Key areas of need are remote health services; young people, substance abuse and emotional well-being; aged care; flexible but adequate services in country towns; mental health services.

Two models are under consideration: (1) a seminar series and booklet and (2) a television series and complementary training kit, including a booklet. The choice of models is dependent upon funding and sponsorship.

ENSURING FAIR ACCESS TO EDUCATION

Everyone has the right to education. [Universal Declaration of Human Rights article 26]

Commission project

In 1999 the Commission will conduct a national inquiry into school education in rural and remote Australia. The inquiry will cover:

• the availability and accessibility of both primary and secondary schooling
• the quality of educational services, including technological support services and
• whether the education available to children with disabilities, Indigenous children and children from diverse cultural, religious and linguistic backgrounds complies with their human rights.

Examples of topics for evidence, submissions and comments are

• costs for families
• social security
• funding models
• teacher incentives
• cultural appropriateness.