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Take Action

Close to 20% of Australians have a disability. Many of us will have a disability at some stage in our lives. It is likely to not just affect you, but your whole community. Get informed and get active. If you do not know what you can do to get involved, below are some ideas for you:

Individuals

still image: man on wheelchair and woman on bench facing to each other, smiling
  • Seek knowledge on disability issues that are important to you.
  • Share your knowledge and spread the word.
    • Promote and discuss issues through Facebook, Twitter or even your own discussion/network group.
    • Help challenge stereotypes about disability. Don't regard someone with a disability as a hero or a victim.
  • Disability discrimination is unlawful in Australia. If you experience discrimination because of your disability, the law may be able to help you. Generally, the first step should be to complain directly to the person or organisation that you believe to be discriminating against you. If you want to lodge a formal complaint with the Australian Human Rights Commission, please call 1300 656 419 or email complaintsinfo@humanrights.gov.au. For more information visit http://humanrights.gov.au/complaints_information/index.html

Community

  • Volunteer with a disability organisation http://humanrights.gov.au/disability_rights/links/links.html#community
  • Advocate for improving and promoting rights in your community through speaking out, signing a petition, or contacting local;
    • radio,
    • television and,
    • newspapers.
  • If you have a complaint about disability discrimination, for example, if your local premises are not accessible, write to your local MP.

Workplace

  • Set a target for increasing the number of employees with a disability at your workplace.
    • Support flexible work arrangements or possible job redesign to support carers.
  • As an employer make sure workers are aware of their rights in the workplace
  • Encourage your work place to participate in disability days and events through;
    • Organising an event to promote disability awareness in the community.  Have you considered entering a work-team in a wheelchair basketball competition?