About IDPwD
International Day of People with Disability is a United Nations sanctioned day that aims to promote an understanding of people with disability and encourage support for their dignity, rights and well-being. The Day also seeks to increase awareness of the benefits of the integration of people with disability in every aspect of political, social, economic and cultural life.
The Day brings together people with disability, community organisations, businesses, individuals and all levels of government. The Day unites people around the world in celebrating and acknowledging the contributions, skills and achievements of people with disability.
In 1992, at the conclusion of the United Nations Decade of Disabled Persons (1983-1992), the General Assembly proclaimed 3 December as the International Day of Disabled Persons.
Based on feedback from the disability sector, the Australian Government has adopted the name International Day of People with Disability.
Since 1996, the Australian Government has provided funds to promote and raise awareness of the Day around Australia, through the Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs (FaHCSIA).
UN Theme
The UN announces a theme for the Day that is based on the goal of full and equal enjoyment of human rights, and participation in society by people with disability. The 2008 theme is 'Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities: Dignity and justice for all of us'.
In Australia, the Australian Government provides support to people with disability in open employment, as well as funding for disability business services, providing a range of employment opportunities for people with disability. More information on the Australian Government's support can be found on the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations' website and the Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs' website.
More information on the UN theme can be found on the UN website.
