International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD) is a United Nations observed day celebrated throughout the world each year on 3 December. The day aims to increase public awareness, understanding and recognition of people with disability and celebrate their achievements and contributions.
IDPwD offers an opportunity for individuals and the community the make positive changes to the lives of the 515,600 Western Australians with disability.
Western Australian theme
Western Australia’s theme for 2024 is ‘Confident, Capable and Creative: Come with Me’, which highlights the strength, resilience and capability of people with disability, and recognises the value of driving change together as an inclusive community.
We all have a role to play in creating an inclusive community. Disability is not a barrier to living full, independent lives where people can reach their full potential. Everyone should be able to participate fully, safely and free from prejudice in everyday life.
A Western Australia for Everyone: State Disability Strategy 2020-2030 reinforces a whole of community commitment to supporting people with disability and sets the foundation for building a more inclusive Western Australia.
Did you know?
Based on data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics:
- 515,600 or 19 per cent of Western Australians have a disability.
- 5.5 million people in Australia have a disability.
- The unemployment rate for people with disability is 7.5 per cent - more than double that for people without disability.
- In WA, 12 per cent of people with disability have experienced discrimination in the last 12 months, slightly above the national of 10.5 per cent.
- 63.9 per cent of people with disability over the age of 15 reported they were satisfied with their social and community participation.
- 1 in 4 people with disability over the age of five have difficulty in using public transport.
What is happening in WA to celebrate IDPwD?
- A range of community events will also be held, including those sponsored by the Department of Communities. Check out the IDPwD Padlet for listed celebrations.
- National Disability Services (NDS) will host its IDPwD WA Lunch on Tuesday 3 December 2024 supported by the Department of Communities. Please visit the NDS event page for details.
- Key landmarks around the State will be lit up to recognise the day.
Getting involved in IDPwD
There are many ways you can celebrate IDPwD and promote further acknowledgement, awareness, participation, and inclusion of people with disability. Below are some ways your friends, family, social or sports clubs can get involved.
- Host a morning or afternoon tea, or ‘snacks and facts’ information session to raise awareness.
- Watch one of the videos listed in the resources page or host a ‘watch party’ that showcases stories that are both educational and inspiring.
- Celebrate IDPwD in your community. Visit International Day of People with Disability for further resources and information.
- Access our digital pinboard, where you’re invited to share events you are supporting or organising for IDPwD.
Increase your understating and awareness of disability
Training
Undertake Disability Awareness Training, available via the following:
Learn Australian Sign Language (Auslan)
Some basic signs are available for you to watch and practice from the following videos:
Beginner community Auslan classes are available through Deaf Connect.
Using respectful communication
Respectful communication is based on the use of inclusive and non-discriminatory language which helps to avoid assumptions and misunderstandings and promotes respectful relationships.
Volunteering
Volunteering is a great way to meet new people and find common ground.
- If you’re interested in the arts, volunteer with DADAA.
- If you’re interested in sport, volunteer with All Abilities Football Association.
What's new
State Disability Strategy
A Western Australia for Everyone: State Disability Strategy 2020-2030 is a whole-of-community vision to protect, uphold and advance the rights of people with disability living in Western Australia.
Disability Grant recipients announced
Minister for Disability Services Don Punch has announced more than $100,000 in funding has been awarded to 101 community organisations for 105 inclusive events and activities to mark International Day of People with Disability 2024.
Disability Royal Commission
The WA State Government released its response to the Final Report of the Disability Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability.
Read more on the Disability Royal Commission webpage.
