International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD) is a United Nations (UN) day observed internationally. It aims to promote community awareness, understanding and acceptance of people with disability. In Australia, IDPwD is a joint effort between government, schools, organisations, community groups, businesses and individuals.
IDPwD is an opportunity to be part of creating an inclusive and diverse community for the 5.5 million people with disability in Australia.
How can you be part of creating an inclusive and diverse community?
Organise an IDPwD event
You can break down barriers and promote inclusiveness by encouraging your school, workplace, or community group to organise an IDPwD event on or around 3 December. You can find resources on the IDPwD website to help you organise your event.
Take part in an IDPwD event
Connect with your local community including people with disability, their families and carers by taking part in an IDPwD event on or around 3 December. You can find IDPwD events in your local area via the events calendar on the IDPwD website.
Take action
IDPwD is a good time to make a commitment within your organisation, workplace or community group to:
- develop a new disability action plan
- support a local disability organisation
- encourage conversations in your community, school, workplace, or with family and friends about disability inclusion and accessibility.
Read, watch or listen
Not all disability is the same and everyone’s experience is different. Learning more about people with disability can help us all reflect on our attitudes and beliefs. You can find stories from the disability community via the Stories page on the IDPwD website.
Share your own story
If you are a person with lived experience of disability, you may wish to share your own story about your personal experiences, achievements or challenges. You can share your story on the IDPwD website.
Help spread the word
Social media is a great way to raise awareness and show your support for IDPwD. We encourage you to share messages of inclusion and diversity on your networks. For social media key messages, posts and graphics visit the IDPwD website.
Learn more at the IDPwD website.
International Day of People with Disability 2024 Theme
The United Nations has announced the theme for IDPwD 2024. The theme is:
Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future.
For more information on the theme, visit the United Nations website.
