Language

Language is both a personal and political choice and there are diverse perspectives regarding the terminology used to discuss disability, both in Australia and internationally. We respect and honour the various preferences people have in relation to language.

People with disability

People with disability are those with sensory or physical conditions, hidden conditions, learning disability or mental health conditions. This person-first language recognises that disability is one aspect of a person's life and does not define who they are. This aligns with the social model of disability, which asserts that individuals are disabled by societal barriers and discrimination, not by their condition. Additionally, 'disability' as an uncountable noun represents a state or quality rather than a countable set of conditions.

Social model of disability

The social model of disability distinguishes between conditions such as illness or functional loss and disability, which is the result of societal barriers and discrimination. Under this model the term 'disability' refers to barriers created by society and not to medical conditions. The emphasis is on removing societal and environmental barriers and not on an individual’s medical condition.

Access

Access is about creating the necessary conditions for everyone to utilise services, facilities, programs and employment opportunities. This includes making space for the unique attributes each person brings and addressing physical, communication, economic, social and attitudinal barriers.

Inclusion

Inclusion is the process of cultivating an environment that celebrates diversity and is free from all forms of discrimination and harassment. This environment recognises, values and utilises the knowledge, skills and ideas of all individuals, irrespective of race, ethnicity or religion, gender or sexual orientation, education level, socio-economic background, age, disability or family responsibility.

Universal access

Universal access refers to the design of environments (both physical and service-related) to be accessible, understandable and usable by all individuals. It is a fundamental condition of good design. When environments are accessible, usable, convenient and enjoyable, they benefit everyone, making it a shared responsibility within the community.

Intersectionality

Intersectionality acknowledges that aspects of a person's identity can overlap in ways that expose them to multiple forms of marginalisation. Being part of more than one under-represented group may compound the barriers an individual faces, necessitating tailored approaches to address these unique challenges.