Accessible, respectful information about disability for people with disability, families, carers and the wider community.
Disability is a broad term that encompasses a wide range of conditions, abilities and support needs. Every person's experience of disability is unique, and support should be tailored to the individual.
Inclusion means ensuring that people with disability can participate fully in society. Accessibility is about removing barriers, whether physical, communication-related or attitudinal, so that everyone can take part.
People with disability have the right to make choices about their own lives, live as independently as possible and participate in their communities. These principles underpin the NDIS.
Families and carers play an important role in the lives of many people with disability. Access to information and support is essential for those in caring roles.
Disability is a broad term that covers physical, sensory, intellectual, cognitive and psychosocial conditions. It is important to recognise that disability is just one part of a person's identity. A person with disability is first and foremost a person, with their own interests, goals, relationships and life experience.
Every person's experience of disability is different. Some people are born with disability, while others acquire it through illness, injury or age. Some disabilities are visible, while others are not. Support needs vary widely from person to person, and can change over time.
It is important not to make assumptions about what a person can or cannot do based on their disability. The most reliable way to understand a person's support needs is to listen to them.
Inclusion means ensuring that people with disability can participate fully in all aspects of society, including education, employment, recreation and community life. Accessibility is a key part of inclusion.
Accessibility can involve physical changes, such as ramps, wide doorways and accessible toilets. It can also involve communication, such as providing information in plain language, large print or alternative formats. Attitudinal accessibility is also important, which means challenging stereotypes and treating people with disability with respect.
People with disability have the right to make choices about their own lives. This includes decisions about their supports, their goals and how they want to live. This principle is known as choice and control, and it is a central part of the NDIS.
Independence means different things to different people. For some, it means living on their own. For others, it means having the support they need to participate in the community, work, study or pursue their interests. Community participation is about being included and connected, not just physically present.
Families and carers often play an important role in the lives of people with disability. This can include providing emotional support, practical assistance, advocacy and help with decision-making.
Caring can be rewarding, but it can also be demanding. It is important that families and carers have access to information, support and respite. There are services and resources available to support carers in their role.