Key to this debate is the question of what housing and support ought to look like for people with disability. Historically, a nursing model – derived from understanding people with disability as sick or ill – was the only form of support for people with disability, and accommodation was thus modelled on hospitals, producing large residential institutions. The fact that institutions are inappropriate contexts for people with disability is well established. It is clear from this that Australia needs to urgently address the issue of institutions for people with disability, and that current approaches which prioritise the congregation and segregation of people with disability in group homes, specialist residential settings, or in aged care facilities are inadequate.
People with Disability Australia
We empower, champion and celebrate people with disability.