About IDPwD
International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD) 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. IDPwD 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.
IDPwD brings together people with disability, community organisations, businesses, individuals and all levels of government. IDPwD 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 IDPwD 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 was 'Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities: Dignity and justice for all of us'. The 2009 theme will be announced later this year.
In Australia, the Australian Government provides support to people with disability in open employment, as well as funding for Australian Disability Enterprises, 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 Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs' website and the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations' website.
More information on the UN theme can be found on the UN website.
