E-News Friday 10 April
QDN Engagement
QDN Emerging Leaders Program Launch
Now in its sixth year, QDN’s Emerging Leaders program started strong with 2026 participants gathering from around Queensland for day one of the program.
QDN’s Emerging Leaders program is focused on building the leadership credentials of people with disability to lead and influence change in their own lives and in their communities.
The program includes learning opportunities ranging from face-to-face workshops, online interactive sessions, mentorship, and community activities. It provides a safe and inclusive environment to develop critical thinking, explore leadership theory, systems thinking and systems change, practice techniques, have inquiring conversations, build relationships, and connect with established leaders.
We look forward to sharing the journey and hard work of all the incredible individuals that are a part of the 2026 Program as the year progresses!
Click the following link to read all about the Emerging Leaders program:
https://qdn.org.au/ourwork/qdn-emerging-leaders-program/
QDN Advocates in Canberra for Disability Priorities
Queenslanders with Disability Network (QDN) was in Canberra meeting directly with federal policymakers and Senators to advocate on issues that matter most to people with disability.
Across 12 meetings with representatives from the Labor Party, Liberal Party, Greens, One Nation, and Katter’s Australian Party, we highlighted key national priorities identified by our members. These included the NDIS, housing, accessible and inclusive transport, employment opportunities, and the legacy and opportunities linked to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, among others.
At the centre of every discussion were the lived experiences of our members. We shared real stories that reflect both the challenges people with disability face and the opportunities for meaningful change, alongside practical policy solutions where governments and the disability community can work together.
To view photos from the Canberra meetings, click the link below:
https://www.facebook.com/QueenslanderswithDisabilityNetwork
QDN and Youth United Nations Representative Meeting
Janice Rodrigues is the 2026 Youth Representative to the United Nations, representing the views of young Australians both domestically and abroad. Apart of Janice’s role is to travel around Australia on The Listening Tour.
You can read more about this by clicking the link here:
https://unyouth.org.au/2026-youth-representative-program/
In March, Janice visited the QDN office to meet with staff to discuss her role and around how she could best connect with, and support our network.
Janice will be a guest speaker at the upcoming Youth (under 30) Peer Support Group on Monday 13th April from 4:30pm-6:00pm. This group meets online, please contact the Power of Peers team by emailing peersupport@qdn.org.au or call QDN on 1300 363 783.
QDN meets Australian Human Rights Commission on disaster responses – March 2026
QDN recently met with Dr Lorraine Finlay from the Australian Human Rights Commission to discuss the importance of human rights in emergency and disaster responses.
As part of the Commission’s national project to create a human rights-based emergency framework, QDN shared insights from the disability community, emphasising inclusive, accessible, and person-centred approaches.
Discussions focused on:
- Lessons from past emergency responses
- Barriers affecting the rights of people with disability before, during, and after disasters
- Ways to strengthen human rights in emergency management systems
QDN highlighted the need to actively involve people with disability in planning and decision-making and will continue to support more inclusive emergency responses across Australia.
Strengthening organisational emergency preparedness through co-designed eLearning program
QDN, NDS and The University of Sydney are working with disability accommodation providers to co-design a self-paced eLearning program that strengthens organisational emergency preparedness through a series of workshops.
The workshops held across Gold Coast, Brisbane and Townsville, were attended by disability accommodation providers to share their lived experience, operational knowledge and on-the-ground decision-making to better understand what works in their service and where the gaps are. These insights will inform the foundation of the eLearning program.
AbilityConnect Event: Strengthening Responses at the Intersection of Disability and DFSV
On 26 March, QDN was proud to partner with DVConnect in hosting AbilityConnect – a full-day forum focused on strengthening responses for people with disability impacted by domestic, family and sexual violence.
This event brought together people with disability, advocates, practitioners, policymakers and sector leaders to have honest conversations about safety, access and responses. It was also great to have Minister Camm attend the forum.
QDN and DV Connect will prepare a report of the outcomes of the forum, and we look forward to further discussion with Minister Camm and her department.
To view more photos from the AbilityConnect event, visit our Facebook page by clicking the link below:
https://www.facebook.com/QueenslanderswithDisabilityNetwork
Emerging Issues with Fuel
QDN is aware of the impacts that the fuel crisis is having on some people with disability and their families. At the recent Chairperson/Peer Leader meeting, the importance of hearing feedback from peer leaders was discussed and we invite QDN members and supporters to please get in touch if affected. To share your story, please follow this link:
Share your story with QDN – people with disability
We recognise that this is affecting how people use their own vehicles, including how often and how far they are able to travel. It is also impacting service providers and what supports being delivered, with many having to prioritise certain appointments or activities. In some areas, there are fuel shortages, limited or no public transport options, and increased costs of living – such as food, transport, and energy – and the additional strain on regional, rural, and remote communities.
QDN will work to keep policymakers aware of the ongoing impact on our community while ensuring our members remain well informed.
Have Your Say
The Voice of Queenslanders with Disability Survey 2026 – 2 weeks remaining!
We’re in the final weeks of the Voice of Queenslanders with Disability Survey with less than 3 weeks to go.
Hundreds of people across the state are sharing their experiences, but we want this to be the biggest year ever, so we want to hear from many more!
In response to our call out last week, we’ve had an increase in men with disability responding, LGBTQIA+ people with disability and regional/rural/remote participants completing the survey.
Thank you to everyone who has lent us their voices so far.
We need to hear more from:
- People from First Nations backgrounds
- People from culturally diverse backgrounds with disability and their families
- Carers from all regions
- People with disability from all areas of Queensland
If you’ve ever struggled with access to services, transport, housing, employment or support, this is a chance to be heard.
There’s not much time left to capture your experiences, click on this link https://qdn.org.au/voq-2026/ to fill out the survey today.
New bill proposes minimum age requirements and driver license for e-mobility
On 25 March 2026 the ‘Transport and Other Legislation (Managing E-mobility Use and Protecting Our Communities) Amendment Bill 2026’ was introduced into Queensland Parliament. This Bill has been referred to the Parliamentary State Development, Infrastructure and Works Committee and they will be receiving submissions until 10am on Friday 10 April.
The changes included:
- Restricting e-mobility devices to over 16s and requiring e-mobility device riders to hold a valid license to ensure they have road rule knowledge and are capable of safe riding;
- Introducing speed limits (10km/h on footpaths, and 25km/h unassisted) to better protect pedestrians;
- Penalties for riders to crack down on dangerous behaviours that contribute to serious injuries and fatalities;
- New powers for police to seize and destroy illegal devices, and the introduction of random breath testing for riders;
- Tougher action for retailers and suppliers who will now be held accountable for selling illegal devices.
The use of E-mobility devices is vital for accessibility and being an active member of the community. E-Trikes, E-bikes, e-scooters and other devices play an important role in the lives of many people with disability and the impacts of this proposed Bill cross all demographics.
There are a range of people with disability including young people, people with intellectual and cognitive disability who experience barriers to learners permit tests who have competency to operate e-mobility device as well as people who may not be medically fit to operate a motor vehicle but can safely operate e-mobility device.
The safety on footpaths and shared spaces is important. People with disability are also pedestrians and are disproportionately impacted by unsafe environments and measures that improve safety of people with disability are critical to us moving around safely in our cities and towns.
To learn more or make a submission, click here:
https://www.parliament.qld.gov.au/Work-of-Committees/Committees/Committee-Details?cid=272&id=8575
Integrity of the NDIS
The Joint Standing Committee on the National Disability Insurance Scheme is holding a a current inquiry into the integrity of the NDIS. This inquiry will review:
- The type and extent of non-compliance, including sharp practices and fraud
- The impacts of non-compliance on NDIS participants
- The effectiveness of government policies to improve safeguarding of participants, and stop non-compliance
- Legislative or other reforms that can strengthen the integrity of the NDIS
To read about the inquiry, or make a submission, click the link here: https://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Committees/Joint/National_Disability_Insurance_Scheme/NDISIntegrity
What are ‘sharp practices’?
According to the NDIS Quality and Safeguarding Commission, ‘sharp practices’ refer to a range of practices involving unfair treatment or taking advantage of people, including over-servicing, high pressure sales and inducements. According to the Commission, some sharp practices may undermine the integrity of NDIS providers, workers and/or the NDIS sector as a whole.
While the sharp practices may not necessarily be unlawful, they are considered unethical, dishonest and not in the interests of the person with disability.
Submissions close on 24 April 2026
QDN will hold a Member Only Session for QDN members who would like to provide feedback to inform QDN’s submission on this Inquiry. Please see information listed under QDN News/Events for further information and to register.
Expressions of interest – Shaping NDIS for First Nations children and young people
The NDIS is looking for First Nations families, young people, carers and community representatives to help make NDIS better for children and young g people. The project aims to:
- Help keep the NDIS culturally safe and inclusive
- Build new pathways that work for First Nations people
- Explore what is not working
- Try new ideas
To register your interest, click the link below:
https://engage.ndis.gov.au/projects/shaping-ndis-for-first-nations-children-and-young-people
QDN News/ Events
2026 Inclusion Matters Forums – Putting Inclusion into Action
The Inclusion Matters Forums are continuing into 2026, and registrations are now open.
Hosted by local QDN Peer Leaders, these forums highlight what real inclusion looks like across the seven outcome areas of Australia’s Disability Strategy. Join people with disability, families, allies, and organisations to share ideas, explore solutions, and take practical steps toward building stronger, more inclusive communities—together.
The first of the forums begins on 29 April and is being held in Rockhampton.
To register for the Rockhampton Inclusion Matters Forum, follow the link:
https://events.humanitix.com/inclusion-matters-rockhampton-2026
To read more about the Inclusion Matters forums and see other events, follow the link:
https://qdn.org.au/ourwork/inclusion-matters/
QDN Member Only Forum – Integrity of the National Disability Insurance Scheme
This QDN member forum is to provide feedback to inform QDN’s submission to the Joint Standing Committee on the National Disability Insurance Scheme on the Integrity of the NDIS. The inquiry focuses on the four areas outlined above. This forum will focus on the nature and extent of non-compliance including fraud and sharp practices which refer to range of practices involving unfair treatment or taking advantage of people including over-servicing, high pressure sales and inducements. We will also focus on the impacts of this on NDIS participants and their families. This inquiry has a short timeframe.
When: Monday 20 April
Time: 4pm-5pm
Location – Online
Click the link below to register for the event:
https://events.humanitix.com/integrity-ndis-forums
Policy Updates
Completed Policy Submissions
The New NDIS Framework Planning Rules
QDN recently made a submission to the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing about the New NDIS Framework Planning Process, which will include the following four steps:
- Step 1: Preparing for the support needs assessment
- Step 2: The support needs assessment
- Step 3: Building a plan and plan discussion
- Step 4: Starting to use a plan
Several issues that were highlighted by QDN members, including concerns about the I-CAN support needs assessment being unable to capture the diverse experiences and needs of people with disability, were included in our submission.
Learn more here by clicking on the following link:
https://consultations.health.gov.au/ndis/nfp-public-consultation/
Other Policy News
NDIS
Parliament enacts NDIS (Integrity and Safeguarding) Bill 2025
Both Houses of Parliament have passed the bill called the National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Integrity and Safeguarding) Bill 2025. This focuses on a range of measures to apply penalties to people who commit fraud or harm to participants on the NDIS and includes:
- A maximum sentence of 5 years imprisonment for not complying with a banning order.
- A maximum of two years imprisonment for providing services that require registration without being registered.
- Increasing the maximum fine to more than $15 million when serious misconduct leads to serious injury or death.
The bill also includes stronger protections to whistleblowers and the power for the NDIA to request evidence before NDIS claims are paid.
To read Minister McAllister’s media statement click the link here: https://www.health.gov.au/ministers/senator-the-hon-jenny-mcallister/media/senate-passes-tough-new-laws-to-protect-the-ndis-from-fraudsters-predators-and-shonks?language=en
Understanding the role of price caps in NDIS markets
A new report has been published about how the 1 July 2025 NDIS price cap adjustments impacted overall market prices and hours of support provided. The study looked at supports that had a price increase, price decrease, and price that stayed the same. It also explores how price changes effect service delivery, NDIS participant budgets and provider sustainability.
To read the full report, click the link below:
https://apo.org.au/node/333792?utm_campaign=Policy-Pulse-19-March-2026&utm_content=apo.org.au%2Fnode%2F333792&utm_medium=email&utm_source=comms.apo.org.au
NDIS Quality Supports Program
$45 million in grant funding has been allocated to three pilot programs aims to the NDIS provides high quality and value for money services. The pilot program has been made available to registered NDIS providers and include:
- Supported independent living
- Therapy supports
- Support coordination
As part of this program, service providers are required to share information about their pricing models and operational challenges.
Registered NDIS providers from across Australia have already been selected for this work, and the information that is shared will contribute to future pricing reviews as part of the NDIA’s Three-Year Pricing Workplan (2025–28).
To learn more, click the link below to read the NDIA website:
https://www.ndis.gov.au/grants/quality-supports-program
NDIS Webinar – understanding pathways for post school life
The NDIS is hosting a webinar on Thursday April 9 from 1pm to 2pm to help participants understand the type of supports that can help them prepare for employment and how they can build skills during their last years of high school , and how to find options that match their skills and interests.
To register for the webinar, head to the NDIS website:
https://events.humanitix.com/understanding-the-ndis-webinar-pathways-to-post-school-life
Health
Free online mental health service now available
Medicare has created a free service to help people with mild mental health challenges. The service is called ‘Medicare Mental Health Check’ and is available to all Australians over the age of 16. This new service allows people to speak to a practitioner who will deliver Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). Additionally, on the 30th of May, people will also be able to access online tools that give practical skills to help support their wellbeing.
Find out more by following the link below:
https://www.health.gov.au/news/free-online-mental-health-service-now-available?language=en
Transport
Staffing Changes at Queensland Train stations
On 18 March 2026, Queensland rail announced that staff will not be on onsite after 1pm on weekdays, or at all on weekends, at approximately 87 stations including Morayfield, Burpengary, and Narangba starting 1 Mav 2026. These changes have impact on the safety and wellbeing of people with disability and those with low digital literacy who rely on station staff to navigate complex unfamiliar locations and use ramps to go on and off the train. Queensland Rail has indicated that will continue to meet accessibility needs of customers through station staff or onboard staffing and use of emergency help phones. QDN is working with members around the potential impacts of this decision on people with disability using the rail network and providing feedback to Queensland Rail, Department of Transport and Main Roads and key decision makers.
Expanded transport across Moreton Bay
People who are under 65 years old and are unable to access other transport services can now access subsidised transport to access services such as medical appointments, community activities and shopping. This transport option is being provided by St John Queensland’s Community Transport service and is funded by the Queensland Government.
To learn more, click the link below to visit the St John website: https://www.stjohnqld.com.au/news/2026/expanded-transport-across-moreton-bay
BETA Report Reveals Australians’ Air Travel Experiences and Gaps in Consumer Rights Awareness
The Behavioural Economics Team of the Australian Government has released Preparing for Take-off (April 2026), providing new insights into Australians’ air travel experiences. The research supports reforms under the Aviation White Paper – Towards 2050, including stronger consumer protections and a proposed ombuds scheme.
While most Australians fly regularly and report generally positive experiences, disruptions are common and poorly handled, with low satisfaction and few formal complaints. The report also highlights limited awareness of passenger rights and ongoing barriers for travellers with disabilities, pointing to the need for clearer information, better support, and more accessible complaint processes.
Follow the link below to read the full report and findings:
https://www.pmc.gov.au/sites/default/files/2026-04/preparing-for-take-off-report.pdf
Human Rights & Justice
Evaluation of younger people in residential aged care initiatives
The Department of Health, Disability and Ageing have published the final evaluation report into young people with disability living in residential sage care facilities. This report outlines how appropriate, effective, and sustainable Government-funded initiatives have been at reducing the amount of young people living in aged care centres since 2019. It highlights key findings and eight recommendations to ensure that no one under the age of 65 is placed in an aged care facility.
Read the full report by clicking the link below here:
https://apo.org.au/node/333692?utm_campaign=Policy-Weekly-11-March-2026
National Disability Data Asset
Towards more inclusive research: A guide to inclusive disability research using administrative data (NDDA)
The National Disability Data Asset (NDDA) Disability-informed Ethical Oversight Panel has developed a guide to conducting inclusive research using administrative data. QDRN members received a preview of this guide in our July 2025 Network meeting.
To read this fantastic resource, click the link below:
https://www.ndda.gov.au/research-projects/inclusive-research
From our Friends
The Queensland Disability Research Network (QDRN) Disability Research Library
Have you visited the online library this month? New articles include:
- Workplace inclusion: Exploring employer perceptions of hiring employees with disability
- Challenges, strengths and joys of autistic parents: An abductive qualitative analysis of parent interviews
- Implicit bias towards people with disability in Australia: Relationship with personal values
- Beyond a buzzword: The need for shared language, education and enhanced reporting of disability inclusive co-design research
Every library resource includes a plain language summary, a word accessible summary document and a captioned summary video. The plain language summaries increase the accessibility of academic disability research and amplify engagement for the broader community.
The online library is available for free public access via the QDRN Hub. Click the link below to access:
https://inclusivefutures.griffith.edu.au/hub-page/queensland-disability-research-network
If you would like to submit a publication for consideration, please visit How to use the QDRN Library or email qdrn@griffith.edu.au
Improving Cancer Care for People with Disability
A new national project is underway to improve cancer care for people with disability.
Led by Cancer Council Australia, in partnership with the Australian Federation of Disability Organisations and the Melbourne Disability Institute, this initiative aims to address the barriers many people with disability face when accessing cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support.
People with disability can experience challenges in getting timely information, diagnosis, and appropriate care. These barriers can lead to poorer health outcomes.
This project will develop a clear, practical guide for health professionals to support safe, inclusive, and high-quality cancer care at every stage of the journey.
Expressions of Interest are now open to join the working group.
Follow the link below to register your interest:
https://www.cancer.org.au/health-professionals/optimal-cancer-care-pathways/people-with-disability
AIS Program – Future Green and Gold – searching for the next generation of Paralympians
Future Green and Gold is a collaboration between the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS), the National Institute Network, national sporting organisations and Paralympics Australia. This national campaign is searching for the next generation of sporting stars and they want Australians with disability aged 13+ for Paralympic sports.
To find out more about the program or to register your interest, click the link below:
https://www.ausport.gov.au/talent/paralympic
Rare diseases and disability toolkit
A new toolkit has been created to support people with rare diseases and disabilities which:
- Contains peer -to-peer supports
- Helps people understand their rights and build self-advocacy skills
- Helps people navigate relevant supports including employment, education, health etc.
The toolkit was developed by Rare Voices Queensland and was co designed by people with lived experience.
Access the toolkit by clicking the link below:
https://rarevoices.org.au/toolkit-page/
Stories
Learn about the National Assistance Card
Learn how a National Assistance Card may support you by reading Celeste’s journey with an invisible disability.
Follow the link below to read the story:
https://qdn.org.au/celestes-story-with-invisible-disability/
Or check out some of our other member stories by clicking the link:
https://qdn.org.au/membership/our-stories/
QDN’s policy team wants to hear about the issues impacting your lives. If you have a story to share, fill out a story form on our website.