About DARU

DARU is unique in Australia as a dedicated resource unit funded to work with disability advocacy organisations to promote and protect the rights of people with disability. We develop and distribute resources and provide training opportunities to keep disability advocates informed and up-to-date about issues affecting people with disability in Victoria.

DARU proudly hosts the advocacy sector’s flagship event each yearn Melbourne in partnership with Disability Advocacy Victoria and Victorian Council of Social Services (VCOSS). Check out the conference website to catch up on past sessions:

flame icon colour  Strengthening Disability Advocacy Conference

 

DARU Update

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Find an Advocate

Directory of organisations for agencies delivering disability advocacy as well as complaints bodies, campaigners, support groups and useful referral and information services.

Find an advocate

Our Publications

A collection of information sheets and reports including ‘What is disability advocacy?’, ‘How to be disability inclusive’ and ‘How we talk about disability matters’.

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Online Courses

Unaccredited online training that supports skill development for providing human rights based advocacy practice. The courses are self-paced and free of charge. Register and learn

Advocacy Sector Conversations Forum

This forum series provides in depth knowledge on topics that impact disability advocacy practice. Session resources include video, audio, transcript and useful links. Browse resources

Disability Royal Commission

Commentary around the Commission’s proceedings with analysis and perspectives under investigation. Find out more

In the news

  • New autism support service unveiled

    Australia’s first national autism helpline has just been launched, offering help for anyone seeking information, support or guidance about autism. This free and confidential service has been developed by autism peak body Amaze and can be accessed via phone, email, and webchat service.

  • Highly educated, but underestimated: How disability employment services fail tertiary qualified individuals

    Trenbath says the disability employment provider seemed to only see her cerebral palsy, not her academic achievements and job skills.  "They thought that because I was disabled that I was on welfare, and they didn't need to find me a job, that they could just take their time," Trenbath said. "I've never been on welfare and I don't get any NDIS funding, so I have to work. I not only want to work, I need to work to be financially independent … I don't want to rely on government funding."

  • Acquiring a physical disability after birth presents unique challenges but new opportunities

    Mr Fairbairn said he was also usually asked if he had "one of those blade things. People's perceptions seem to be that all lower-limb amputees must be sports people," he said.

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