International Day of People with Disability

Published on 01 December 2023

International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD) is a United Nations day observed on 3 December each year to increase public awareness, understanding and acceptance of people with disability.

By acknowledging this important day, we can take action to remove barriers for the 4.4 million Australians with disability and contribute to positive change in our local community.

Mayor Pat Bourke said “statistics show that around one in six people have a disability, with not all disability the same, including many disabilities being invisible.”

“Let’s face it, if you aren’t born with a disability or acquire one as a young person, as we move from our teens and twenties many of us are likely to develop something, whether it is hearing loss, an old injury or some sort of health issue.”

This year the Federation Access & Inclusion Committee encourages everyone to become more inclusive within our daily lives and activities!

“We can all take action to make even the slightest changes in our daily lives which will greatly support the many people we come across who have a disability,” said Anne Ovens, member of the Committee.

“Actions can simply be speaking clearly, listening intently and being flexible by responding to a person’s needs. These actions can make a significant difference in a person’s life. With or without a disability, these actions will support everyone, maybe even yourself!!”

Tabitha Williams from Barrel N Brew said, “as a local business owner, I understand the importance of an accessible venue and service both to the business and the community, therefore I became involved in the Federation Access At a Glance program.”

“The program has provided recognition and promotion not only for physical access in and around the building, however, also our menus and menu boards with their clear and simple text and staff awareness of different needs and communication.”

“Consideration of access not only supports those with a disability but for all, including the young, our older residents and visitors and everyone in-between.”

The Federation Access & Inclusion Committee in partnership with Intereach, delivers the Access At a Glance program at no cost to the community. This program supports organisations in making positive change, recognises organisations for their accessibility efforts and assists people to find venues and businesses that meet their accessibility needs.

By joining the conversation this #IDPwD and listening to the stories and lived experiences of people with disability, we can challenge our own perceptions about disability, break down barriers and help make positive changes in the community.

For more information, including the Access At a Glance program, go to [website address] or contact [phone number/email address]. You can also visit our [Facebook page] for updates.

For more information about IDPwD, including resources, stories, videos and social tiles, visit www.idpwd.com.au or follow @idpwd on Facebook and Twitter, or @idpwd_au on Instagram.