‘Ask what you can do’: how we can make Deakin more inclusive for students with disability
At Deakin, inclusion is one of our central values. Our vibrant community includes many thousands of students who manage health conditions and/or disability that can impact their studies.
We’re celebrating International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD) on Saturday 3 December, which aims to increase public awareness, understanding and acceptance of people with disability, and celebrate their achievements and contributions.
So why is it important? Some of our current students share how living with disability impacts their study experience and how we can make our uni community more inclusive:
Does disability, health or mental health affect your participation at Deakin?
We want you to fully thrive while you study. Read how our Disability Access and Inclusion Plan 2021–25 guides our approach to disability, and discover our support services:
- Disability Resource Centre (DRC): the DRC works with more than 4000 students. It promotes inclusion and access for students who experience disability and those with primary carer responsibilities. You’ll work with a Disability Liaison Officer (DLO) to identify and seek any adjustments, services and recommendations that will help us to meet your study needs.
- Accessing adjustments: we offer measures to help you to participate in study. Any disclosure of disability or health condition will be treated confidentially in accordance with our Privacy Policy.
- Deakin Library: our inclusive spaces, services and resources are accessible to people with diverse needs. Assistive technology and quiet study rooms are available to book at all campus libraries.
- Changing Places: if you can’t use a standard accessible toilet, these public toilets include an adult-sized change table, a ceiling hoist, a peninsular toilet, a privacy screen and additional circulation space. Facilities are currently available at Waterfront Campus (Building D, next to Student Central), Burwood Campus (Building V, Library) and Waurn Ponds Campus (Building JB, Central Plaza).
- Digital accessibility: we’re constantly striving to improve the accessibility and usability of our digital environment, including our website and learning materials. As part of this work, a number of Deakin staff were recognised at the 2022 Accessibility in Action Awards.
- Geelong Cats Sensory Zone: if you love your footy, check out the Sensory Zone at GMHBA Stadium home games. It includes a quiet space and multi-sensory room featuring sensory bags, weighted lap mats, headphones, glasses, fidget toys and other activities that engage different senses.
Keen to learn more?
Visit our International Day of People with Disability webpage for more information and inspiration.
If you have a request or idea for further disability support at Deakin, we’d love to hear it! Just email [email protected] and we’ll be in touch.