First Annual Queenslanders with Disability Report Reveals Lived Experience through Citizen Science

A Griffith University-led research initiative to discover the lived experience of Queenslanders with disability was released at Australia’s Disability Strategy Forum in Brisbane today.

The first annual Voice of Queenslanders with Disability report which aims to inform policy to remove barriers to access and produce equitable outcomes for a diverse Queensland, was funded by the Queensland Government and delivered in partnership with Queenslanders with Disability Network.

Griffith researchers adopted a unique approach to gathering survey information by engaging nine citizen scientists with lived experience of disability to enable participants to share their stories authentically and transparently about challenges and successes in their lives.

Griffith Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability and Hopkins Centre Research Fellow Kelsey Chapman said the initiative examined a range of areas which impact daily life for Queenslanders with disability.

“The findings reflect a meaningful step towards understanding what life is like for Queenslanders with disability, their family and carers, and the organisations that support them,” Ms Chapman said.

““Participants called for improved standard of living and social protection for Queenslanders with disability, to improve economic security, accessible housing, increased employment opportunities, and support lifelong learning.”

Read more about the report in Griffith News here.