MADEC is proud to celebrate Disability Action Week 2025 (23–30 November), a Queensland Government initiative that promotes accessibility, inclusion, and stronger connections across our communities. As a dedicated NDIS provider and disability support organisation, MADEC supports this year’s theme, “Communicate. Connect. Create.” The theme highlights how inclusive communication and collaboration help people with disability to participate fully and confidently in all areas of life.
Disability Action Week is about more than awareness; it’s about action. It challenges all of us to think about how we share information, build relationships, and design environments that are welcoming and accessible.
The Queensland Government emphasises that accessible communication means sharing information in ways that everyone can understand. This could include using plain language, captions, symbols, or assistive technologies such as Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). These tools and approaches remove barriers, promote independence, and ensure that everyone can express themselves and be heard.
Barriers in communication can have far-reaching effects. They can make it harder for people to access services, participate in work or study, or feel included in everyday life. By improving the way we communicate and connect, we not only make our spaces more inclusive but also strengthen our community.
Communicate. Connect. Create.
Communicate
Effective communication is central to inclusion. It involves thinking about how information is shared and received, and whether everyone has equal access to it. This could mean offering information in multiple formats, using plain English, or ensuring that digital content meets accessibility standards.
For some people, communication may include gestures, visual supports, or technology. MADEC’s previous article, How to Communicate with Someone Using AAC, explores how AAC tools support people who communicate in different ways.
Connect
Connection follows communication. When people can express themselves freely, they can participate more fully in community life. Inclusion grows when individuals, workplaces, and community organisations actively create opportunities for people with disability to contribute, collaborate, and connect.
Create
The final part of this year’s theme encourages innovation and action. It’s about designing environments, systems, and services that prioritise accessibility from the start. This is known as universal design — creating spaces that work for everyone, rather than retrofitting accessibility later.
Practical Ways to Support Disability Action Week
Whether you’re part of a workplace, community group, or local service, there are many ways to make communication and connection more inclusive:
- Review your communication materials: Are your websites, brochures, and social media posts accessible to everyone? Simple changes such as using plain language, high-contrast colours, and captions on videos can make a big difference.
- Provide multiple communication options: Offer ways for people to get in touch beyond phone calls or written forms, such as email, text, or AAC-friendly platforms.
- Make events and spaces accessible: Consider physical access, sensory needs, clear signage, and quiet areas where people can take a break if needed.
- Promote disability awareness training: Educating staff and volunteers about accessibility and respectful communication builds understanding and confidence.
- Ask for feedback: Invite people with disability to share their experiences of your service or event, and act on what you learn.
Each of these steps contributes to a more inclusive Queensland, where people of all abilities can communicate, connect, and create together.
Learn More and Get Involved
Disability Action Week 2025 is an opportunity to learn, reflect, and take practical steps toward greater accessibility and inclusion. The Queensland Government’s website offers free tools, training, and event listings to help individuals and organisations take part.
This November, let’s work together to communicate clearly, connect meaningfully, and create accessible spaces where everyone can thrive. By focusing on inclusion and accessibility, we build communities that are stronger, more understanding, and truly welcoming to all.
