At least one in five Australians are people with disability. The diversity of people with disability is broad, but the need to address their exclusion from many parts of society, and the harm this causes, remains urgent, as underscored by the recent Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability.
Flinders University is at the forefront of this mission, partnering with people with disability, community groups, service providers, advocacy organisations, and government bodies to drive significant improvements and address barriers to supports. This collaborative effort ensures that human rights, policy and practice are intertwined.
At the core of Flinders' research are the experiences and priorities of people with disability. This approach not only promotes social inclusion but also challenges exclusion, driving positive change.
“Research-driven evidence creates a wider conversation about what can be changed – and this is the great benefit of co-produced research,” explains Professor Sally Robinson, Flinders’ Professor in Disability and Community Inclusion.
“Our research is conducted in the way that people with disability prioritise, and the outcomes are both accessible and high impact for policy and practice.”
Elevating Independence Through Technology
Flinders researchers have found that smart home automation technology significantly enhances independence and quality of life for people with disability, reducing their reliance on caregivers.
“Home automation technology can help to control household functions including opening and closing doors and blinds, operating heating and cooling and turning lights on and off,” says Dr Claire Hutchinson, a senior research fellow working across the Caring Futures Institute and the Centre for Social Impact.
“Home automation allows individuals to perform more tasks independently and this not only lowers the costs associated with care services but also empowers people with disability to live more autonomous lives,” adds Professor Kate Laver, who is also an Occupational Therapist.
Inclusion Through Lived Experience
Inclusion for people with intellectual disability means not only being heard but also influencing how important issues are addressed. Professor Sally Robinson’s research projects emphasise this, working alongside co-researchers with disability, such as Jala Burton and Tim Cahalan.
“People with disability know what is needed to improve their own lives, yet many assumptions are made on their behalf,” says Professor Robinson.
Co-designed research projects have explored how people with disability can influence employment and transition to independent living.
Addressing Cultural Barriers
Dr Professor Anna Ziersch leads a team addressing the barriers faced by migrant children with disability. Their report, "Growing Up Well in a New Country," highlights the need for culturally and linguistically appropriate services to improve access social services, including the NDIS.
“We’d like to see greater collaboration between communities and services, and an approach to service provision that embraces the whole family, and builds capacity within communities to encourage inclusivity,” says co-author Dr Moira Walsh.
Supporting Future Leaders
Inclusive research is encouraging more people with disability to pursue higher education and drive future research initiatives. Flinders University, in partnership with the Dylan Alcott Foundation, offers scholarships to support students with disability.
Michala Baldwin, the first scholarship recipient, is studying a Bachelor of Speech Pathology.
“I want to better educate others so that undiagnosed autistic people being missed for support services are recognised before it is too late,” explains Michala.
“I also strive to make therapy for neurodivergent people be both neuro-affirming and a positive experience, rather than being taught to change for the betterment of neurotypical people."
