The Victorian Government helps to promote the rights and participation of people with disability by funding disability advocacy agencies and self advocacy groups.
Advocacy
Disability advocacy is available to people with disability if they need it. Family or carers might also request advocacy support, when appropriate.
Advocacy provides assistance and support to ensure that:
- The rights of people with disability are upheld as valued members of the community
- People with disability actively participate in decision making processes, particularly those where the outcomes impact on their lives
- The needs and views of people with disability are presented to government, service providers and the broader community.
Disability advocacy can include:
- Acting with, or making representation on behalf of, people with disability
- Referrals to appropriate bodies to effect the resolution of complaints
- Influencing policies and practices to promote fair treatment and social justice for people with disability.
For more information, see Disability advocacy organisations.
Self advocacy
Self advocacy plays a significant role in enabling people with disability to develop skills that ensure their rights and interests are respected and realised.
For people with disability, self advocacy is about:
- Speaking on one's own behalf
- Understanding rights
- Making real choices
- Learning new skills.