The Multicultural Youth Advocacy Network Australia (MYAN) has submitted a response to the Australian Government’s Disability Discrimination Act Review.
The submission emphasises the importance of aligning the Act with the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and updating definitions to reflect intersectionality—recognising how disability intersects with race, ethnicity, age, and cultural identity. MYAN recommends replacing deficit-based terminology such as “disorder” or “malfunction” with culturally affirming language and ensuring recognition of invisible disabilities that fluctuate over time.
Key recommendations include mandating employer engagement with disabled individuals, implementing compulsory diversity training programmes, developing comprehensive disability action plans, and strengthening protections against harassment both online and offline. In education, institutions should provide clear guidelines that account for cultural differences and language support.
MYAN concludes that these reforms present a crucial opportunity to promote equity and justice, ensuring all young people with disabilities can participate fully and equally in Australian society through inclusive, culturally sensitive policies aligned with international standards.
