DSRS9056 Ethical and Legal Issues in Disability Services

2018

4.5

5 x 3-hour seminars per semester

Assignments

This topic will provide an introduction to the legal, ethical and administrative framework in which disability services are provided. Students will develop an understanding of Commonwealth and States disability and equal opportunity legislation, Guardianship and Mental legislation, Common law and consumer issues relating to people living with disability, criminal law and international agreements/declarations. Students will develop an understanding of the formulation of disability policy, planning, funding and monitoring and the framework of disability services agreements between the Commonwealth and State governments. Students will have opportunities to analyse the effectiveness of these measures in contributing to the wellbeing of people living with disability.

This topic aims to provide students with the opportunity to explore and learn about:

• An overview of the legal, ethical and administrative aspects of managing disability services.

• Research literature around local, national and international exploration of policy, models of services and legal frameworks around disability.

• Frameworks for critical thinking and analysis of complex issues around provision of supports and services to individuals living with disability.

On completion of this topic, students will be able to demonstrate an understanding of ethical and legal obligations. They will be able to apply them to issues and practices that arise in disability services, and will be able to demonstrate the application to service provision or policy while justifying their application to their professional peers and other concerned parties.