International Day of People with Disability

International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD) is a United Nations-observed day held on 3 December each year. It's an international celebration that promotes awareness, understanding, and acceptance of people with disability. It recognises their achievements and contributions across all areas of life, including workplaces, schools, arts, sports, and leadership.

How does Australia participate?

The Australian Government through the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing funds a national IDPwD program to help promote and raise awareness of this day. The IDPwD program aligns with Australia’s Disability Strategy 2021-31 and aims to increase public awareness, understanding and acceptance of people with disability through events, storytelling, and educational resources championed by communities, councils, schools and other organisations.

How to Get Involved

Here are some practical and meaningful ways people can get involved with the International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD):

  • Attend local community events, expos, workshops or celebrations
  • Volunteer with disability support organisations
  • Promote disability inclusion in your workplace, school or community group
  • Share stories and raise awareness on social media
  • Learn about accessibility and inclusive communication
  • Support businesses owned or operated by people with disability
  • Invite speakers with lived experience to community events
  • Participate in inclusive sports, arts or cultural activities
  • Advocate for accessible public spaces and services
  • Fundraise for disability charities or programs
  • Use inclusive language and encourage others to do the same
  • Organise a morning tea, BBQ or awareness activity at work
  • Watch films, read books or attend performances by creators with disability
  • Encourage schools and clubs to include disability awareness activities
  • Review websites, documents and events for accessibility
  • Become an ally by listening to and amplifying disabled voices
  • Celebrate achievements and contributions of people with disability
  • Support inclusive employment opportunities
  • Join disability advocacy campaigns or consultations
  • Wear themed colours or badges to show support

You could also focus activities around the yearly IDPwD theme and encourage participation from all ages and abilities.