Disability advocacy, rights and having your say

Disability advocacy can help people understand their options and have their views heard. Having a choice is more meaningful when you have the information and support to use it. That can mean questioning a decision, asking for a different service or explaining what you want in your own way.

This collection explores disability rights, self-direction, advocacy and making your voice heard. You will find practical ideas for speaking up, perspectives on how disability is discussed and stories about being recognised as a person with your own priorities. The articles invite readers to consider who is making a decision and whose views are being heard.

For participants, start with the issue you want addressed. Write down what happened, what information you need and what you would like to change. You can ask for an explanation in a format that works for you and involve a trusted person where that would help.

Families and carers can offer support without taking over the conversation. Ask how the person wants you involved, and help them communicate their preferences. An advocate may also help someone understand options or raise a concern, depending on the issue and the service available.

Different concerns have different pathways. A complaint about an NDIS provider or worker is different from asking for a review of an NDIA decision. The NDIS Commission explains how to report service concerns; check the NDIA's current information when a question relates to a plan or funding decision.

Providers and workers can use these articles to reflect on consent, communication and supported decision-making. Giving someone a choice also involves making the options understandable and responding respectfully to their answer.

Browse this section for questions, language and perspectives you can take into a conversation. Being clear about what you need can help you identify the right support and the most useful next step.