Women With Disabilities Australia (WWDA)

Advocating for a National Human Rights Act! Disability Representative Organisations have united on a joint position statement in support of a national Human Rights Act in Australia.

The Disability Royal Commission and the Inquiry into Australia’s Human Rights Framework have presented a critical opportunity to shape the future of human rights protections in Australia. Our organisations recognise that a Human Rights Act can implement human rights into Australian law and provide for specific protections to address the unique rights violations that people with disability experience.

"As the national DPO and National Women’s Alliance for women, girls, feminine identifying and non-binary people with disabilities in Australia, we believe a Human Rights Act would better protect against intersectional inequality and discrimination," said Acting WWDA CEO, Sophie Cusworth.

Read the full statement here: https://wwda.org.au/publication/strengthening-protection-of-the-rights-of-people-with-disability-through-a-national-human-rights-act-hra/

[Image Description: This tile has a blue background. The white text says: "We are advocating for: A National Human Rights Act. To better protect the human rights of people with disability." At the bottom of the tile, slanted frames feature photos of people with diverse disabilities, ethnicities and backgrounds.]

If you're a woman or gender-diverse person with a disability or chronic condition, over the age of 15 in Australia - you can become a WWDA member today! Join a community of like-minded women and gender-diverse people, and be the first to know about our projects and opportunities!

Find out more and sign up for FREE here: https://wwda.org.au/join-wwda/

[Image Description: This post features an image of eight smiling women with disabilities, with different identities and backgrounds at a park. A purple banner at the bottom of the tile reads "Become a WWDA member!" in white text. The WWDA logo is below this.]

Sophie Cusworth (WWDA Acting CEO) spoke with Women’s Agenda on the recent discussion around NDIS funded s*xuality services.

“The NDIS is designed to improve the quality of life of people with disabilities in Australia and it provides funding for people with disabilities to access ‘reasonable and necessary’ support to participate fully in the community on an equal basis with others,” Cusworth said.

“People with disabilities have a right to enjoy health and wellbeing, including s*xual health and wellbeing, just like people without disabilities. We have the right to make our own choices about our bodies, s*xual and reproductive health, and intimacy, pleasure and relationships.

“S*xual expression and intimacy is linked to improved quality of life and wellbeing for both people with and without disabilities, but some people with disabilities need specific support to enjoy s*xual expression.”

Read the article: https://womensagenda.com.au/latest/how-and-why-did-s*x-work-get-approved-for-ndis-funding/

Not feeling okay about your body is a common feeling in our community. Body image issues affect people of all ages, genders and across all cultures, and it is something that many of us face. We want to that to change, because we know that every body is unique and worthy of love and respect - no matter its shape, size or needs.

Neve has resources that can help anyone to understand our body image, and we hope it can foster a positive relationship with yourself. Our resources include:
- Understanding body image and how it can impact your wellbeing,
- How to combat self-criticism and negative thoughts,
- Embracing self-love and appreciation for your body, and
- Finding support with others who understand the same feelings.

Let's build up our confidence together, and uplift ourselves and each other. Find out more with Neve's resources: https://www.neve-plainenglish.wwda.org.au/resources 💜

[Image Description: This post features an image of a woman with pale skin and orange shoulder-length hair in a wheelchair. She is wearing a yellow singlet, white sweat cuff and black exercise pants, holding a black and yellow tennis racket. She is facing to camera, with a dusty brown tennis court behind her. The background shows bright green trees and city buildings. A berry pink banner is placed at the bottom of the tile, reading "Body Image. Learn more with Neve's library of resources." The purple Neve logo is in the top-left corner.]

Last week, our Acting CEO, Sophie Cusworth, commented on the new NDIS reforms in an interview with The Daily Aus. Sophie emphasised the importance of maintaining support for people with disabilities, including their right to access these types of services.

She stated, "The NDIS should not limit the types of support available to people with disabilities. Everyone deserves the opportunity to pursue health and wellbeing, including s*xual health and intimacy."

Read the article: https://thedailyaus.com.au/stories/ndis-to-ban-s*xual-sevices-under-new-reforms/

Earlier this month, the Australian Bureau of Statistics released a report on disability, ageing and carers around Australia. They found that 21.4 per cent of people identify as having a disability - that's 1 in 5 people! It just shows that disability is a part of so many lives. WWDA wants to do the work to make sure you are represented and advocated for. We recognise and represent over 2 million women, girls and gender-diverse people with disability around Australia, providing resources and information, so you can self-advocate, live independently and express yourself in your own way.

[Image Description: This post has a blueish purple background, and the white WWDA logo is in the top-right corner. An illustration of five women of different abilities, ethnicities and backgrounds, wearing brown, beige and black clothing, is shown in front of a purple organic shape. Below, in a large white font, the text reads: "1 in 5 people in Australia have a disability." At the bottom of the tile, smaller white text says: "Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics 2024."]

Have your say on s*x and the NDIS!

Last year, we held a Forum about S*x and the NDIS. We heard how important it is to be able to access s*xual supports and services.

There has been a lot happening in the news about s*x and the NDIS in the last few weeks, and we want to know what you think.

Your feedback will help us to tell the NDIS what kind of supports you need.

Have your say here: https://wwda.org.au/2024/07/have-your-say-s*x-and-the-ndis-survey/

*xualHealth

WWDA is standing alongside 9 other leading disability advocacy organisations, who are concerned about the potential exclusion of s*xual services from the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).

S*xual supports can promote well-being and improved quality of life. There are a range of vital s*xual supports and services, including consent and s*xual health education, therapies, non-s*xual intimate touch, engagement with s*x workers, and s*xual aids and assistive technology.

We urge Government to deliver on its co-design promises by engaging with the disability community to develop a framework for NDIS funded s*x and s*xuality services.
Read our joint statement on our website: https://wwda.org.au/publication/joint-statement-ten-organisations-call-for-people-with-disabilitys-access-to-ndis-funded-s*xuality-services-to-be-protected/



Tell us what you think via our survey on S*x and the NDIS here: https://wwda.org.au/2024/07/have-your-say-s*x-and-the-ndis-survey/

Happy Non-Binary People's Day! 💛🤍💜🖤

Today, we recognise and celebrate the resilience, diversity, and courage of non-binary individuals everywhere, as we remember the importance of visibility, understanding, and acceptance. It is an opportunity to highlight the intersecting identities that shape our experiences, and to empower others to embrace their unique perspective and identity.

WWDA welcomes and works with people of all disabilities and identities, and aim to support and uplift all diverse voices. We were made for women, girls and gender-diverse people of all backgrounds and livelihoods, including non-binary individuals. We believe everyone deserves respect and dignity, regardless of identity.

If in need of support, you can contact:
- QLife: 1800 184 527 (3pm-midnight)
- The Rainbow S*xual, Domestic and Family Violence Helpline: 1800 497 212
- Disability Abuse and Neglect Hotline: 1800 880 052
- 13 YARN: 13 92 76
- Lifeline: 13 11 14

[Image Description: This post has a light to dark purple gradient background. The white WWDA logo is in the top-right corner. In large white text, the tile reads: "International Non-Binary People's Day". Below this text, the non-binary flag is in the bottom-left corner. It has four horizontal stripes - yellow, white, purple and black. In the bottom-right corner is an illustration of three people of diverse backgrounds, ethnicities and disabilities. They have their arms around each other standing side by side.]

Storytelling is important for Indigenous and disabled communities, as lived experiences and perspectives build a foundation for advocacy, empowerment and solidarity. 🗣️

This NAIDOC Week, WWDA wants to uplift and platform Indigenous voices, sharing the intersectional diversity of our community and disability. In line with this year’s Disability Pride Month theme, “We Want a Life Like Yours”, we're sharing stories from our Indigenous members, ensuring their lived experiences of disability and culture are told in their own words and voices. Through collective efforts, we can create space and visibility for First Nations voices and stories, so they can be understood and valued across Australia.

Read and listen to these stories here: https://wwda.org.au/2024/07/naidoc-week-2024/

[Image Description:Both tiles have a purple gradient background, with the NAIDOC logo in the top-left corner, and the white WWDA logo in the top-right corner. Both tiles have quotes in white text. Tile 1 reads: "We have our eye on the same destination - a sustainable future where Indigenous people are recognised for their wisdom and honoured for their culture. Kristie Parker - Yuwallarai woman and activist." Tile 2 says: "People who discount women's storytelling and discount the value that we have, need to get with the program. Hannah Diviney - disability advocate."]

The Neve Helpline Directory is your resource for finding the help you need, both nationally and locally.

Whether you're seeking:
• Counselling for emotional support
• Legal advice to understand your rights
• Mental health support to navigate challenges
• Assistance after experiencing violence or abuse

We'll help you find a list of trusted organisations!

Your wellbeing matters. Visit Neve today and find the support you deserve: https://www.neve-plainenglish.wwda.org.au/level-4-page/helpline-directory

[Image Description: This post has a green background with a light green banner at the bottom of the tile. In large white text, the post reads: "Helpline Directory. National and local support. Translation and relay services. Online and on the phone help.." An image of a person is featured in the bottom-right corner - they have white skin with short pink hair. They are wearing a green grey jumper and light brown pants, holding a black mobile phone in a black wheelchair. The purple Neve logo is in the bottom-right corner, and the Neve URL is in the top-right.]

Today is Chronic Disease Awareness Day. Living with a chronic illness often means navigating daily hurdles that can be physically, emotionally, and financially demanding and overwhelming. At WWDA, we understand the profound impact they can have on individuals and their loved ones, and this day serves as a reminder of the strength and resilience within our community, especially those who have hidden disabilities and face non-belief and discrimination.

At the heart of our mission lies a commitment to inclusion and empowerment. We believe in fostering a community where individuals with chronic conditions are seen, heard, and valued. We aim to provide support, advocacy, and resources that help individuals to live their fullest lives. 💜🦾😷

[Image Description: This post has a circular gradient background, being dark purple in the middle and light purple at the edges. The white WWDA logo is in the top-right corner. In the middle of the tile is a line drawing of a woman sitting up in bed, holding her fingers to the side of her head. The scribble above her head indicates she has migraine pain. Below this, white text reads: "Chronic Disease Awareness Day. July 10."]

ChronicIllness

Looking for your community? If you're a woman or gender-diverse person with a disability or chronic condition, over the age of 15 in Australia - you can become a WWDA member today! Find out more and sign up for FREE here: https://wwda.org.au/join-wwda/

[Image Description: This post has a purple-blue gradient background and shows a text conversation. Bubble 1: "Are you a woman or gender-diverse person with a disability or chronic condition?" Bubble 2: "Over 15 years old and living in Australia?" Bubble 3: "Yes! That's me!". Bubble 4: "You can become a WWDA member right now!" The white WWDA logo is in the bottom-right corner.]

Storytelling is very important in Indigenous communities, serving as a form of cultural continuation and resistance to colonial erasure. Knowledge, language and history has been passed down for generations through storytelling, sustaining community and tradition. It is also important within the disabled community, empowering advocacy and solidarity.

This NAIDOC Week, WWDA wants to uplift and platform Indigenous voices, sharing the intersectional diversity of our community and disability. In line with Disability Pride Month, we want to share stories from our Indigenous members, ensuring their lived experiences of disability and culture are told in their own words and voices. Through collective efforts, we can create space and visibility for First Nations voices and stories, so they can be understood and valued across Australia. 🖤💛❤️

Read these stories on Our Site and WWDA archived blogs through the link in our bio:
wwda.org.au/2024/07/naidoc-week-2024/

[Image Description: This post has a purple gradient background. The NAIDOC logo and the white WWDA logo are in the top-left corner. A black illustration of fire is featured on the right side of the tile. On the left side, large white text reads: "NAIDOC Week 2024: Keep the fire burning with storytelling."]

It’s NAIDOC Week! 🖤💛❤️

NAIDOC week is the yearly celebration and acknowledgement of our Indigenous history, culture and peoples. Held in the week following the first Sunday of July (7-14 July 2024), it is a time for all of us to respectfully engage with culture and conversation, to listen and learn about the oldest, continuous living culture on Earth.

This year’s theme is “Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud and Proud“, embodies the passionate spirit and strength of Indigenous communities. It encourages and empowers us to “ignite the flame of culture” and stand in solidarity with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, rights and advocacy. It is an opportunity to amplify voices that have been silenced throughout colonised history, and acknowledge our country's history.

The last tile shows this year's official NAIDOC poster - 'Urapun Muy' by Samuawgadhalgal artist Deb Belyea. Urapun Muy means "One Fire" in the Kalaw Kawaw Ya dialect. It pays homage to Torres Strait Islanders and Aboriginal people everywhere, "as we all have that one fire: our passion for our culture." 🔥💞

[Image Description: The multi-tile post has a purple gradient background. Tile 1 features large white, uppercase text that reads: "Keep the fire burning! Blak, loud and proud". Below this, in smaller red font with a thick black border, says: "7-14 July 2024". Tile 2 has the NAIDOC logo and the white WWDA logo at the bottom of the tile. White text reads: "We acknowledge that all Women with Disabilities Australia members and staff live and work on the lands of Australia's First Nations people. We pay our respects to ancestors and elders past, present and emerging, for they hold the memories, traditions and knowledge of communities and nations across Australia. Sovereignty has never been ceded. It always was, and always will be, Aboriginal land." Tile 3 shows this year's NAIDOC poster, 'Urapun Muy' by Deb Belyea. A black column on the right explains the poster and shows the NAIDOC logo, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags.]

Nurture your creativity in Neve's Calm space! 🎨👩‍🎨

Explore your emotions and find peace through our arts and crafts activities.
• Discover the magic of art and express your feelings on paper.
• Create a calming jar filled with colours and tranquility.
• Awaken your inner artist and let your imagination run wild!

Join us in our Calm space and tap into the power of creativity for self-care and wellbeing: Visit https://www.neve-plainenglish.wwda.org.au/level-4-page/arts-and-craft

[Image Description: An illustration from Neve's Calm space of purple and blue scribbles and lines. The image shows drawings of a sharpie and coloured markers, on a pink background with white stars. A berry purple colour banner is across the bottom of the tile, white text reads: "Arts and craft. Explore Neve's Calm space today." The white Neve logo is in the bottom-right corner.]

Content Warning: Su***de, mental health, loss of a loved one.

"Our messages became less frequent / Every week became / Every month / And then you slipped away"

"Your Light", a poem by WWDA member Olive Jarvis (), is now available on Our Site stories. Olive writes about her experience of losing her auntie, which made her feel guilty, mad and sad that she could not change what had been done. Poetry has helped her work through this pain.

Read Olive's poem and other stories from our community here: https://oursite.wwda.org.au/stories/your-light

[Image Description: A photo of Aurora Australis, the "Southern Lights" is featured on this tile, above a dark beach.Large white text at the bottom reads: "Your Light". In smaller text below this, it says: "by Olive Jarvis". The Our Site logo is in the top-left corner, with subtitle text that reads: "Real stories from WWDA members, only on Our Site". A pink box at the top next to the logo reads: "Content Warning: su***de, mental health, loss of a loved one"]

We are excited to introduce our latest course: Co-design with Women, Girls, Feminine-Identifying, and Non-Binary People with Disabilities. This comprehensive course is designed to empower professionals with the skills and knowledge to create inclusive and collaborative environments. Here’s what you can expect:
- Importance of Inclusivity
- Understanding Intersectionality
- Facilitating Inclusive Co-Design Sessions
- Identifying Needs and Aspirations
- Co-Designing Solutions

Join us to learn how to effectively co-design with women, girls, feminine-identifying, and non-binary people with disabilities. Gain the tools to facilitate meaningful and inclusive collaborations that make a real difference. ✨

Visit Neve's Professional Development Hub today by clicking on the Log in button in the top-right hand corner of the website! [https://www.neve-plainenglish.wwda.org.au/]

[Image Description: A group of women with different abilities, identities and backgrounds are laughing and smiling in front of a white draped wallpaper. In a white text box with a purple flower frame reads: "Co-design with women, girls, feminine-identifying and non-binary peoples with disabilities. Free online course. Now available in the Professional Development Hub." The purple Neve logo is in the top-left corner.]

Destination: ADHD-Town. Population: Me 💜
"ADHD is my low-rent superpower. What’s yours?" Dive into Chloe Whitby's inspiring story about the journey of living with ADHD. We can find your own strength in our experiences. Let's celebrate our diverse journeys together!

Read Chloe's story and more stories from WWDA members with disability or chronic conditions here: https://www.neve-plainenglish.wwda.org.au/story/destination-adhd-town-population-me

[Image Description: This post has a blue purple background with illustrations of flowers native to Australia. A purple banner with a white stripe at the bottom of the tile reads: "Destination: ADHD-Town. Population: Me. By Chloe Whitby". A photo of Chloe, with white skin, black hair, black and gold glasses and a black shirt with red spots, is in the middle of the tile. The white Neve logo is in the bottom-right corner.]

Empowering inclusivity! 🦾
We are thrilled to announce our new training program: Induction to Working with Women, Girls, Feminine-Identifying, and Non-Binary People with Disabilities. It's designed to equip you with the knowledge, skills and attitudes you need to create truly inclusive and supportive environments.

In this course you will gain an understanding of:
- Intersectionality
- Communication and Language
- Accessibility and Accommodations
- Empathy and Sensitivity
- Supportive Workplace Culture
- Join us in making a difference and promoting inclusivity in your workplace.

Visit Neve's Professional Development Hub today by clicking on the Log in button in the top right hand corner of the website! [https://www.neve-plainenglish.wwda.org.au/]

[Image Description: Two women with tanned skin and long black hair are watching a phone screen. The woman holding the phone sideways is wearing a pink singlet, blue, pink and black glasses and beaded bracelets. The woman next to her is wearing a blue top, covered by her curly long hair. In a white text box with a purple flower frame reads: "Induction to working with women, girls, feminine-identifying and non-binary peoples with disabilities. Free online course. Now available in the Professional Development Hub." The white Neve logo is in the top-right corner.]

"In the whispers of the evening breeze, A woman dances, with hidden unease."

"Disability Invisible" a short poem by WWDA member Marie Bledsoe is now available on Our Site stories. Marie is on a journey of self-discovery, unpacking her own intersectionality. She is learning to embrace her authentic self and share vulnerabilities to encourage others who join her in disability.

Read Marie's poem and more stories from WWDA members with disability or chronic conditions here: https://oursite.wwda.org.au/stories/disability-invisible

[Image Description: A photo of Marie is featured on this tile. She has lightly tanned skin, shoulder-length blonde hair and is wearing black glasses and a navy blue collared blouse. There is a purple frame on the left and bottom of the image. Large white text at the bottom reads: "Disability Invisible". In smaller text below this, it says: "by Marie Bledsoe". The Our Site logo is in the top-left corner, with subtitle text that reads: "Real stories from WWDA members, only on Our Site."]

It's July, which means it's also Disability Pride Month! 🦾🦻🦿🦼🩼
This is an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the history, achievements, experiences, and struggles of the disability community. This year's theme is "We Want a Life Like Yours" - people with disabilities and chronic conditions deserve to live full, self-determined lives (just like everyone else), but many of us still face discrimination for our access and support needs, appearances and identities. We need to uplift our community and represent the diversity of disability. That’s why Women with Disabilities Australia will spotlight inspiring and real stories from women, girls and gender-diverse people with disability this July, and show what is possible with inclusion!

Join WWDA today to become a part of our diverse, amazing community, and maybe share your story with Neve or Our Site? 💜 wwda.org.au/join-wwda

[Image Description: This post has a purple-blue gradient background. The white WWDA logo is in the top-right corner. In large white text at the top of the tile it says: "July is Disability Pride Month!" In the bottom half of the tile there is a drawn image of people with different disability, identities and backgrounds. One on the far right is being assisted by a guide dog. At the bottom of the tile, under the feet of these characters, are the Disability Pride stripes, in order: black, green, blue, white, yellow, red and black.].

Looking for a deeper understanding of the experiences of women, girls, and gender diverse people with disabilities? Dive into the heart of our community through the powerful stories and articles shared on Neve's stories page! These stories offer invaluable insights into the unique challenges, triumphs, and perspectives of our diverse community. You can gain a deeper understanding, leading to more effective and supportive perspectives.

Join us in celebrating the voices of our community and learning from our experiences. Head to Neve's stories today and discover a world of inspiration and knowledge!

[Image Description: This post has a purple background with a banner of light purple and dark purple ribbons. An image of a women with short grey hair and pale skin, wearing a navy blue hat and a yellow shirt is featured in the bottom-right corner in front of illustrations of bright flowers that are native to Australia. Large white text at the top of the tile says "Dive into the powerful stories and articles of our community!" The Neve logo is in the middle section of the tile. In the bottom-left corner, a white thin shape reads the Neve website "Neve.wwda.org.au".]

The monthly WWDA newsletter is being sent to our members' inboxes this week! 📬 Don't want to miss it? Become a member and/or sign up to our mailing list! You'll get updates from our team, projects and things happening in our community!

Find out more and sign up for FREE here: https://wwda.org.au/join-wwda/

[Image Description: This post has a light purple background with darker purple banners on the bottom half. At the top it reads: "Don't miss a thing... Sign up to our newsletter!" An image of a phone displaying a WWDA news email and a laptop, displaying the white WWDA logo on a purple screen is in the bottom section. A notification bubble is coming from the laptop screen, showing an email icon with a notification alert bubble.]

Breathe, relax, and find your calm with Neve's meditations and visualisations. Feeling stressed or overwhelmed? Take a few moments for yourself in our Calm space, illustrated by Kay Barnard: https://www.neve-plainenglish.wwda.org.au/calm-space

We offer a variety of guided meditations and visualisations designed to:
• Soothe your nervous system
• Ease stress and anxiety
• Help you reconnect with your inner peace

Whether you're a beginner or experienced meditator, there's something for everyone. Take a deep breath and join us on a journey to greater wellbeing.

[Image Description: An illustration from Neve's Calm space of a woman who has brown skin with vitiligo patches, wearing a purple singlet with pink strawberries in the centre. She is lying on green grass with her eyes closed, a small smile and arms resting above her head. A berry purple colour banner is across the bottom of the tile, with white text that reads: "Meditations and visualisations. Breathe, relax and find your calm, in Neve's Calm Space." The white Neve logo is in the top-right corner.]

In Neve’s ‘Our stories’ section, we celebrate the resilience, strength, and unique journeys of women and gender-diverse people with disabilities. "Disability and Creativity - a lived experience story" by Tess Corbel is now available on Neve.

Melbourne writer Tess Corbel confronts this question and more in her powerful essay on disability and creativity. She challenges stereotypes and shares her experiences as an autistic fiction writer navigating the literary world. Tess reminds us that there's no one "right" way to be creative, and that everyone deserves the chance to express themselves.

Read Tess's inspiring story on the Neve website and discover a fresh perspective on creativity and neurodiversity: https://www.neve-plainenglish.wwda.org.au/story/disability-and-creativity

[Image Description: This post has a blue purple background with illustrations of flowers native to Australia. A purple banner with a white stripe at the bottom of the tile reads: "Disability and creativity - a lived experience story. By Tess Corbel". A photo of Tess, with white skin, light-brown hair, black glasses and a black shirt with white lines, is in the middle of the tile. She is smiling, showing her teeth, looking towards the right of the camera. The white Neve logo is in the bottom-right corner.]