Nomination of Ms Rosemary Kayess to the UN Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities

Today marks International Day of Persons with Disabilities.

Australia is a global leader in disability-inclusive development and disability rights. We strongly support diverse and inclusive societies in which the dignity, rights and wellbeing of all people are protected.

During our term on the UN Human Rights Council, Australia will advocate strongly for the rights of persons with a disability.

Australia will nominate Ms Rosemary Kayess as a candidate to the United Nations Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) for 2019-2022.

Ms Kayess is an internationally respected lawyer specialising in discrimination and human rights law. She is currently Chair of the Australian Centre for Disability Law, and was an expert member of the Australian Government delegation to the United Nations negotiations for the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. A graduate of the University of New South Wales, Ms Kayess' research and advocacy includes access to justice, social inclusion, housing and employment.

The UNCRPD is an important human rights treaty body that monitors implementation of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

The elections for the UNCRPD will take place in New York on 12 June 2018.