From: Philip Shirrefs Sent: Tuesday, 1 December 2009 8:30 PM To: disabdis Subject: re: Application for exemption under DDA section 55: Cinema captioning and audio description I wish to add my voice to those opposing the application for exemption under DDA section 55: Cinema captioning and audio description. I work as an advocate in the disability sector and am very aware of the many barriers that people with various disabilities face when trying to access services and facilities in our community. I am pleased that there seems to be a commitment to extending and improving services within Australian cinemas for people with hearing impairment. I am puzzled, however, about this application for an exemption from complaints in relation to provision of such services. It seems to be a non-sequitur. Surely this should be no less subject to rigorous "quality assurance" during its implementation compared with when it is fully up and running. I believe that this ability to lodge complaints serves only to assist in this process and provide essential feedback as the changes are rolled out. I respectfully request that this application be disallowed in the interests of all concerned. Philip Shirrefs