A physical disability is a physical condition that affects a person’s mobility, physical capacity, stamina, or dexterity.

Sensory disabilities are conditions that affect one or more of a person's senses, including sight, hearing, touch, taste, and smell, and can impact their ability to process and respond to sensory information.

Cognitive disabilities are characterized by impaired cognitive functioning, which can affect a person's ability to think, learn, remember, communicate, and problem-solve.

Intellectual disability is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects intellectual functioning and adaptive behaviors, such as communication and social skills, starting in childhood.

Psychosocial disability refers to functional challenges that arise from a mental health condition, impacting a person's ability to engage in daily activities and interact with others.

Invisible disabilities are long-term physical, mental, or neurological conditions that are not immediately apparent to others.

People with disability have a fundamental right to take part in all aspects of social, cultural and economic life and enjoy the benefits of an accessible and inclusive community.

People with disability have a fundamental right to achieve their full potential through education and lifelong learning, and the economic security that comes from equal opportunities within the workforce.

People with disability have a fundamental right to access a range of in-home, residential and other community support services. This includes personal assistance necessary to support living and inclusion in the community, and to prevent isolation or segregation from the community.

People with disability have a fundamental right to enjoy the highest attainable standard of health without discrimination on the basis of disability, and to be confident that measures are in place to ensure equitable access to health and mental health services and supports.

People with disability have a fundamental right to recognition before the law and to live free from all forms of exploitation, violence, abuse and neglect. This includes the right to safety and to legislative, administrative, social and educational support, and other measures that protect and uphold their dignity and wellbeing.

Aboriginal peoples with disability may have a distinct understanding of disability shaped by their culture, history and kinship.

Aboriginal peoples experience disability at significantly higher rates. This is often linked to social factors such as poverty, trauma, discrimination and limited access to culturally appropriate services.

People with disability from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds may face unique challenges, including language barriers, differing cultural perceptions of disability, and difficulties navigating service systems. These factors can limit access to appropriate supports and lead to further marginalisation.

Women and girls with disability may experience disability differently and are more likely to be underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed. They also face higher rates of abuse, exploitation and economic disadvantage.

Children and young people with disability have the right to a full life in conditions that uphold their dignity, promote self-reliance and enable active participation in family, cultural and social life.

Efforts must focus on supporting their growth, development and inclusion.

People with disability who identify as LGBTIQA+ can experience exclusion from supports and services and their specific needs are often overlooked in policy and program development, leading to further marginalisation.

People with significant intellectual disability or who experience high levels of vulnerability due to their disability have the right to feel safe, be treated with dignity and be supported to participate meaningfully in their communities.

People with disability living in regional and remote areas often face reduced access to supports and services, along with greater barriers to participation due to distance, limited transport options, and resource shortages.