ATSIDNQ is a growing network of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with disability, and their families and carers.
The Network is a culturally safe space for members to connect, share and raise awareness of issues they are facing.
The Network gives members the opportunity to celebrate their strengths, share their stories with others and contribute to the conversation about disability in positive ways.
There are many ways the Network is helping members get connected; such as yarning circles, information sessions, a Facebook site and a regular newsletter.
The importance of having such a network had been discussed for some time and the impetus to begin work on establishing this vision resulted from a gathering of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who came together in December 2005 as part of the International Day of People with Disability.
From humble beginnings the network has evolved and was recently supported by Queenslanders with Disability Network (QDN).QDN engages Aged and Disability Advocacy Australia (ADA Australia) to support this program. ADA Australia has over 20 years experience in community services and many years supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Queensland.
Who can become a member
Any Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person with disability, their family and carers are welcome to become members of the Network.
Why become a member
- Membership is free
- A culturally safe place to share stories and connect
- Receive bi-monthly newsletters, a member hat
- Connect with others at Network events
- Connect through closed Facebook group
- You can help the Network inform Government on the things that matter to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with disability and our families.
Willie Prince - founding ATSIDNQ member
“After leaving institutional accommodation, I was still working out who I was and where I came from. I got the idea of forming some sort of network because I did not want others to go through the same level of uncertainty. People with similar stories who also face double disadvantage in their lives can now come and connect with other members, share stories, and talk openly about experiences at network events.”
