This submission was made in March 2026.

About the consultation

The Tasmanian Disability Inclusion Plan is a whole‑of‑government plan under the Disability Rights, Inclusion and Safeguarding Act 2024. It sets expectations for how disability inclusion is embedded across government policies, services, and systems. Disability Commissioner Tasmania is a key stakeholder and is committed to supporting government as they develop this plan.

About our submission

The submission emphasised embedding disability inclusion into everyday government activity, rather than treating it as a specialist or standalone issue. It highlighted the importance of proactive, predictable and low‑effort systems so people are not required to repeatedly disclose disability or navigate unnecessary complexity. The submission also stressed that strong disability inclusion benefits the whole community, not only people with disability. The submission covered topics including education, employment, housing, justice, and transport.

Key points

Willow Court

  • Tasmania’s history of institutionalisation continues to shape attitudes, systems and trust today.
  • Willow Court’s legacy provides opportunity collective learning, healing, and cultural change.
  • Addressing this history is critical to strengthening disability rights leadership and community inclusion.

Supported Decision Making

  • People should be supported to make decisions that affect their lives across everyday government interactions.
  • Clear, accessible information and communication support are essential for genuine choice and control.
  • A consistent, whole‑of‑government approach can reduce reliance on decisions being made on a person’s behalf.

Health

  • People with disability face known risks when moving between health, community and support systems.
  • Reports received by the Commissioner highlight how failures in adjustment, communication and coordination can undermine safety, wellbeing and continuity of care.
  • The submission recommended that the Plan strengthen coordination and disability‑aware practice across all health settings.

Governance

  • Clear governance supports consistent delivery of disability inclusion across government.
  • Shared definitions and expectations help reduce siloed approaches and inconsistency.
  • Better use of existing data can identify barriers early and improve system design.

Documents