Every person is unique and the effects of any disability will vary from person to person. In July 2008 the Australian government ratified (signed) the United Nations International Convention on the Rights of a Person with a Disability. This convention is an international human rights instrument (document) drafted by and for people with a disability. It reinforces the fundamental rights to fair treatment, dignity, respect and access to civil society that people with a disability should enjoy.

People with disabilities face the potential for complex difficulties in a number of areas of their life including living arrangements, work, access to public facilities and when dealing with the criminal justice system. It is important to remember that the law has been developed to protect every human being but has not been designed with specific disabilities in mind. It may be necessary for a person with a disability to obtain legal advice to assist with safeguarding their rights. Australia’s disability laws aim to redress imbalances to ensure equality for people with a disability (positive discrimination) and provide them with protections when they are in vulnerable circumstances.

This Legal Guide on Disability Law provides individuals with a disability, their friends and carers with information about how to protect their rights. Before making important decisions it is advisable to obtain legal advice specific to your situation. LegalEagle’s™ free directory profiles all lawyers in Australia. You can use it to Find a Lawyer near you.

Please select from our Articles, FAQ and Questions & Answers sections all written by experienced lawyers. Our Glossary helps explain the meaning of any words you are unsure about. You can also Ask a Lawyer a question yourself. It is free and anonymous.

Warning: Information provided through LegalEagle™ is for general guidance. It is not legal advice. Laws and procedures referred to may change and differ between states, territories and nationally. There may also be important exceptions or qualifications. Only a lawyer providing formal legal advice can assess your particular circumstances to determine how the law will apply.