People with disability talk about their disability and their identity in different ways. In our communications we will use person-first language. For example, we say ‘people with disability’. The Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability (Disability Royal Commission) uses this language.

We know many people prefer to use identity-first language. For example, they say ‘disabled people’. We also know many people in the Deaf community do not identify as people with disability. Instead, they see themselves as a distinct cultural and linguistic group. We acknowledge disability means different things to different people.

If you have a preference for identity-first or person-first language, please tell us so we can use this in our day-to-day communication with you.

Acknowledgement of Country 

We are honoured to acknowledge Palawa as the traditional owners and carers of Country and Sea Country of Lutruwita where we are based.

We acknowledge and pay our deepest respects to Palawa Elders past and present, Community members and their families.  The strength of Elders have sustain Palawa families with their knowledge sharing, story-telling and cultural practices over many generations.

Each day we walk in the footsteps of Palawa ancestors, which is filled with deep stories and songs of Lutruwita. Palawa know their Country, which keeps Palawa strong, with their feet firmly planted on Country.

For Palawa, that have lived or live with a disability they are respected and cared by families and the Community. Palawa do not judge but celebrates their people.

We recognise the enduring strength and wisdom of Palawa people and the importance of listening, being led by and to share decisions. We recognise the significance for Truth-telling, Treaty and Healing to be part of Lutruwita’ s future.

Palawa are strong, still here and connected to Family, Community and Country.

We are also honoured to acknowledge and respect all traditional owners of the lands that make up our island, Lutruwita.

Acknowledgement of lived experience

Disability Commissioner Tasmania acknowledges the lived and living experience of people with disability, our family members, carers and supporters.

We respect and honour the resilience and strength our community shows in promoting inclusion and human rights.

We recognise the importance of centering people with disability within all of our work.