The online survey, which was conducted over two weeks, aimed to identify the most important human rights issues facing persons with disabilities, the priorities for improving their employment outcomes, and the most strategic ways to focus the resources of the AHRC on these issues. For each question, respondents were asked to pick three out of 10 to 16 options. A total of 541 respondents took part in the survey.
15.75% of respondents thought the most important human rights issue facing persons with disabilities was ‘Participation and inclusion in society’. This was followed by ‘Work and employment’ (13.49%), ‘Access to services’ (8.57%) and ‘Welfare and social security’ (8.25%).
On the subject of disability rights and employment, 18.89% of respondents thought ‘Addressing negative attitudes and stereotypes’ was the most important issue, followed ‘Availability of jobs’ (17.56%) and ‘Assistance in finding, securing and maintaining employment’ (12.62%).
Respondents thought that the most important things that the AHRC could do to advance the rights of persons with disabilities were ‘Public education and awareness activities’ (20.93%), ‘Engagement with Government Ministers and through parliamentary processes’ (14.34%) and ‘Guidance and advice to employers and industry’ (12.18%).
“The disability forum at the AHRC was a valuable exercise in establishing better communication between the commissioners and the disability sector,” said Alex Varley, CEO of Media Access Australia. “Whilst there are many issues to be addressed, it is clear that practical solutions are needed in employment and access to information. Technology plays a strong role in both those areas and we look forward to working with the Commission on these issues.”
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