The Strategy provides a framework within which jurisdictions can assess and improve existing activities. It also identifies new priority projects that could be progressed as national initiatives or by individual jurisdictions.

The Strategy sets out eight underlying principles that will guide its implementation. These address issues such as the right for all Australians to have access to, and participate in, arts and cultural activities, and the need for people with a disability to be involved in the decisions that affect them.

Ministers have agreed on four priority areas for action. These are:

• Addressing barriers to access and participation;
• Supporting artistic and cultural practice amongst those with a disability;
• Developing audiences for disability arts companies and individual artists; and
• Improving policy development and planning within governments.

The Strategy is the result of extensive consultation, including 115 submissions made in response to a discussion paper released in late 2008, targeted consultation with arts and disability peak bodies, and consultation with government agencies at all levels.

Ministers have agreed to monitor progress on the Strategy every year. Information about activities that take place as part of the Strategy will be made available on the CMC website. Ministers will also review the Strategy after three years, in consultation with the arts and disability sector.