We have joined the ‘Think Outside the Chair‘ movement with a pilot awareness campaign to challenge community perceptions and change attitudes and behaviours towards people with invisible disabilities (also known as hidden disabilities).
Invisible disabilities may not be immediately apparent. People with disabilities include those who have long-term physical, mental, intellectual or sensory impairments and each have specific needs. Accessible public toilets and car spaces are not exclusive for those with only seen disabilities or impaired mobility.
In Australia, 90 percent of the 4.4 million people with disabilities are living with an invisible disability. Unfortunately, those living with hidden disabilities can experience confrontation and abuse from uninformed people when using accessible toilets or car spaces – because their disabilities may not be obvious.
We all have a part to play in creating a truly inclusive and accessible community for people living with disabilities. Of the highest importance is in our attitudes and behaviours.
By increasing community awareness of invisible disabilities, we hope to bring necessary change to behaviours and attitudes to improve inclusion and respect.
Some ways we can help improve inclusivity for people with invisible disabilities:
- Whilst it is illegal to park in an accessible parking space without a permit, please remember that not all disabilities are visible. As long as their permit is clearly displayed and the vehicle is transporting the eligible cardholder, these drivers can park in these spaces and don’t need to explain their disability to the public*.
- There are many reasons why someone who doesn’t ‘look like they have a disability’ might need to use an accessible toilet. Be considerate and kind! Whilst it’s not illegal to use an accessible toilet if you don’t have a disability and don’t need to use one, please leave them free for those who do.
