Disability and sexuality: learning from the SexED Up Expo
SexED UP Disability and Sexuality Expo! (And why we need an Expo!)
By Victoria Chipperfield · Originally published 11 January 2017
Original article and dated context
Sexuality is a complex, essential aspect of being human. It requires a broad understanding and people should be be provided with all the options and information that enables informed decision-making.
The concept of the “SexED Up Expo” was developed following multiple conversations with people with disabilities, their partners, family members and workers across health, community and disability sectors, recognising the structural issues and gaps.
The intention of the Expo is to provide a unique platform to address sexual expression across a broad range of issues and in a holistic framework.
The Expo may be the first experience participants have to engage in conversations and discussions that lead to the meaningful development of both personal and systemic change.
The Expo will also enable people to access a number of options from gaining information to participating in workshops, including:
Self and systems advocacy
Sexuality education and training
Systems development
Sexual health and well being
Information on accessing sex workers
Relationships, intimacy and sexuality
Sexual and gender diversity and
Adult toys including development.
For workers in the sector, it will provide information about available options, discussing positive policy development to support client’s expression of sexuality and developing skills to build confidence in approaching this aspect of clients’ lives.
The “SexED Up Expo” will also provide a platform to encourage political and governmental representatives to participate in discussions about future policy development.
The recently implemented NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) provides people with greater personal determination about how to spend funding allocation and will hopefully provide an opportunity to have sexuality and intimacy aspects included in their funding packages.
[Clickability update, October 2026:
Current NDIA guidance on supports that cannot be funded states that sexual services and sex work cannot be funded. The historical hope below must not be used as spending advice. Other proposed supports need to be checked against the applicable rules.
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We are delighted to have such an impressive range of speakers and presenters including Rachel Wotten (Touching Base), Dr. George Taleporos (disability rights advocate with expertise in human rights, sexuality and disability service reform), Kardie Whelan (Family Planning Victoria). and Deanna Jones (House with No Steps).
Sexuality is complex, but understand it is essential.
Victoria Chipperfield
Victoria Chipperfield trained and worked as a nurse for fifteen years, later completing qualifications in community work and working as an advocate and case manager. Stabilise was established in recognition that sexuality and intimacy were aspects of a person’s life that are generally overlooked for people living with a disability, support needs or medical conditions. Stabilise is committed to promoting opportunities that are inclusive of gender, sexual orientation and circumstance. For more information about the speakers, venue and to buy tickets or trade tables please go to www.sexedupexpo.com.
Clickability editorial update: October 2026
Choose the information and support you want
You can ask questions about relationships and sexuality without agreeing to an activity or sharing details with everyone involved in your support. Consider whether you want a private conversation, accessible written information or help finding an appropriately qualified service. Clarify who will be present and what will be recorded.
Check funding separately from access to information. The current excluded-support guidance sets an explicit boundary for sexual services and sex work. Do not rely on this old expo announcement to approve a purchase.
Support autonomy while keeping professional boundaries clear
Listen without substituting your beliefs for the person’s choices. Ask how they want information provided and respect privacy and consent. If a request goes beyond your role, explain that boundary and help the person identify an appropriate contact with their permission. The NDIS Code of Conduct provides a relevant professional reference. Attendance at an expo does not establish competence to deliver specialist sexual-health or therapeutic services.
