Disability advocacy plays a vital role in ensuring that the rights of people with disabilities are protected. It involves doing something, saying something, or writing something to advance, defend, and uphold the human rights of those with disabilities. In Australia, people with disabilities who need advocacy support can access it with the help of funding from the federal government as well as some state and territory governments. This is independent of the funding available to people with disabilities from the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).
Independent disability advocacy provide advocacy to people with disabilities to help them understand their rights and protect them from discrimination. An independent advocate’s job is to assist those who are experiencing problems with their rights. For example, if NDIS participants feel like their choice and control is being compromised or they feel the need to file a complaint, the disability advocates will guide them with their knowledge about the complaint process and the law. To prevent any potential conflicts of interest, independent disability advocates should not be connected to any of the organisations that offer assistance and services to persons with disabilities. Independent disability advocacy is the need of the hour as it ensures that the voice of people with disabilities is heard and their rights are protected.
The Australian government’s Department of Social Services has developed a National Disability Advocacy Program (NDAP) through which people with disabilities can access efficient advocacy.
Classy Life is a registered NDIS service provider based in NSW, and we believe that disability advocacy is instrumental in upholding the rights of people with disabilities. If you would like to enforce your right to access disability advocacy, we can connect you with various disability advocacy organisations in NSW regions. Contact us today to know more.