The Attorney-General’s Department is set to open consultation this month on a review of the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA). This is an important opportunity to strengthen protections for people with disability and ensure the law reflects their rights and experiences. The DDA has not undergone substantial reform since 2009, leaving many gaps that continue to create barriers to justice.

In their response to the Disability Royal Commission, the Australian Government accepted, in principle, 15 recommendations aimed at improving the DDA. These reforms seek to make the legislation stronger, clearer, and more effective in preventing discrimination. For too long, the burden of challenging discrimination has fallen unfairly on individuals. The system must be reformed so that people with disability do not have to fight for their right to equal treatment.

DANA, alongside other National Disability Representative Organisations, has welcomed the government’s commitments in this area. However, meaningful reform must be led by people with disability and those who work alongside them.

Independent disability advocates have deep knowledge of how discrimination plays out in practice and what is needed to fix the system. Their voices must be at the centre of these discussions.

DANA is planning to engage with our members to inform them of our submission to the consultation. We will be sharing updates and creating opportunities for members to contribute their expertise. If you would like to be notified when the consultation opens, you can sign up for email alerts on the Attorney-General’s Department website.

We encourage our members to stay engaged in this process—join us in pushing for a fairer and more effective DDA that upholds the rights of people with disability.

Read related articles:

• It’s time disability reform became an election commitment – Australian Human Rights Commission
• After 32 refusals, Guide Dog user Paula is taking on Uber for discrimination – Justice and Equity Centre