Southwick pledges help for the disabled
David Southwick and the Liberals will invest $150,000 to purchase, fit and launch a food truck with All Things Equal if he is elected at the upcoming election.
David Southwick
All Things Equal (ATE) is a social enterprise established in January 2021 that provides purposeful award-wage employment, training, and work readiness for people with disabilities in a hospitality-based setting.
David Southwick believes everyone should be given the best chance to achieve their potential in life.
All Things Equal’s purpose is to bridge the gap between people with a disability and society by facilitating industry-based training and empowering individuals to increase their skills to make choices about meaningful employment.
To date, ATE has employed 25 young adults with a disability. For many of these young adults, this is their first paid job with real work expectations in a real-world environment.
Currently, ATE has 50 people with a disability on a waitlist to join the team. This initiative will allow for a further 6-10 new staff with a disability to gain paid employment. It will also take the show on the road and help spread the message about disability inclusion.
Deputy Leader of the Liberal Party and Member for Caulfield, David Southwick, said this week’s announcement was about delivering a fair go for everyone, especially people living with a disability.
“Every single day, All Things Equal changes lives and makes sure that everyone in our community, no matter their abilities, has a place to work and belong.
The cafe not only provides meaningful employment opportunities, but it also allows the community to engage with and support people living with disabilities.
It’s time we put the word ability back into the word disability. ATE does just that and I couldn’t think of a more inspiring organisation to support.”
All Things Equal Managing Director, Ava Christie, said All Things Equal is committed to championing real employment opportunities for people with a disability.
She said: “We welcome this announcement and are open to all possibilities to work with representatives from across the political spectrum who share our passion about the work we do.”
All Things Equal employee Zac Chester said he was excited to serve customers and drive the truck.
“I want people in the community to see me do my job well.”
