Disability & Everyday Life

Disability is a broad term that covers physical, sensory, intellectual, cognitive and psychosocial conditions. 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.

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. 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.

Choice and control are central principles in disability support. People with disability have the right to make decisions about their own lives, including the supports they receive and the goals they want to pursue. This principle is known as choice and control, and it underpins 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. Supporting someone's independence means respecting their preferences and helping them exercise control over everyday decisions, big and small.

Accessibility is about removing barriers so that people with disability can fully participate in society. This includes physical access to buildings, transport and public spaces, as well as access to information, communication and digital services.

Inclusion means creating environments where everyone is valued and able to take part. It involves attitudes as well as access, including treating people with disability with respect, challenging stereotypes and providing information in plain language or alternative formats.

Taking part in community life benefits wellbeing and social connection. This can include joining clubs or groups, volunteering, attending events, participating in sport or recreation, or simply spending time with others.

Participation looks different for everyone. It is about being included and connected, not just physically present. Common barriers include transport, cost, physical access, social attitudes and a lack of information about what is available.

Families and carers play an important role in the lives of many 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.

Carers have their own support needs. Carer Gateway, an Australian Government program, offers free services for carers, including counselling, peer support groups, coaching, skills courses, and planned or emergency respite. You can call Carer Gateway on 1800 422 737 (Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm).

When a person receives NDIS funding, they may choose support providers to help them achieve their goals. Choosing a provider is a personal decision and should be based on the participant's needs, preferences and the quality of services offered.

Some questions that may be helpful to consider include: What are my goals and what support do I need to achieve them? What experience does the provider have in supporting people with similar needs? How will the support be delivered, and is it flexible? What are the costs and how will they be managed? How do I raise concerns or make a complaint if something goes wrong?

Take time to compare options and ask for key details, such as fees and cancellation policies, in writing. The NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission provides information about provider standards and how to raise concerns.