The Department of Education, Skills and Employment has opened public consultation on a review of the Disability Standards for Education 2005, seeking feedback on the effectiveness of the Standards and potential improvements.
The Department said the Standards were subject to review every five years to test if they remained effective in achieving their objects for students with disability and whether any improvements could be made.
“We want to hear ideas and experiences from current, former and prospective students with disability, their families and carers, advocates, educators and other key stakeholders on the effectiveness of the Standards,” the Department said.
“The Standards were established to ensure students with disability can access and participate in education on the same basis as students without disability,” it said.
“They help people understand the rights of students with disability, and make clear the obligations and responsibilities of education providers to students with disability.”
The Department said a discussion paper had been developed with guiding questions to help people have their say.
“We are particularly interested in the experiences and views of current, former and prospective students with disability, their families and carers, advocates and educators,” it said.
“Your feedback will help us understand how well the Standards work and if changes are needed to improve them.”
The Department said due to COVID-19 restrictions, most engagement activities would occur online through a dedicated Consultation Hub.
The 10-page Discussion Paper can be accessed at this PS News link.
