Down Syndrome Australia provides systemic advocacy on behalf of people with Down syndrome and their families. We work to create change and make sure people understand the experiences of people with Down syndrome and their families.
Systemic advocacy seeks to influence and change a ‘system’ such as legislation, government policy, and community attitudes.
All our work is informed by the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
We work in partnership with our state and territory member organisations and the Down Syndrome Advisory Network in our advocacy work.
We are working on issues that are important to people with Down syndrome and their families and communities. Our advocacy work addresses key issues like:
- Prenatal screening
- Health
- NDIS
- Education
- Employment
- Migration
Our Advocacy Asks
For more detail, you can view our policy position statements on key areas and our submissions to Government.
Individual advocacy
- Individual advocacy is one-on-one support provided to a person to prevent or address instances of unfair treatment or abuse. Individual advocacy helps make sure the voice of the person with disability is heard on a particular issue that matters to them. Individual advocacy supports people to express their views and concerns, access information and services, and explore choices and options.
- If you are having difficulties and need individual advocacy, you can contact your state or territory association to find out more about what is available.
- There is a national network of disability advocates who can provide advice and assistance. You can find a contact for your local advocacy organisation here.
International advocacy
Down Syndrome Australia, as the National Disability Representative Organisation for people with Down syndrome, also represents Australians with Down syndrome on an international level. Down Syndrome Australia is a member of Inclusion International, Down Syndrome International, and the Asia Pacific Down Syndrome Federation.
As part of our International work, DSA has attended the United Nations Conference of State Parties (COSP) each year since 2022. You can find out more about CoSP and our attendance here:
