UQ Disability Inclusion Group celebrates 10 years

The University of Queensland’s Disability Inclusion Group (DIG) has marked its 10-year anniversary advancing disability representation and inclusion on campus. 

Over the past decade, the UQ DIG has played a critical role in delivering successive Disability Action Plans to improve inclusivity, accessibility, support services, and research at the University. 

Led by Professor Paul Harpur OAM since its establishment, the group’s impact is displayed in stronger student and staff support, prioritising disability-focused research, and an increase in students disclosing disability from around 4 to over 12 per cent during this time. 

Vice-Chancellor Professor Deborah Terry AC said the University had a sustained focus to build a more inclusive, supportive and accessible place for staff, students and the community.  

“Since the DIG was established, UQ has introduced a range of initiatives, including the Disability Inclusion and Advocacy Network, the Neurodivergent Hub, and the UQ Disability Collaboratory – one of the largest university-wide disability research platforms globally,” Professor Terry said. 

“We are also the only Australian university with a dedicated Disability Inclusion Research and Innovation Plan as part of our broader Disability Action Plan. 

“We continue to work towards our aim of true ability equality and I sincerely thank everyone in our community who is contributing to these efforts.”  

Reflecting on 10 years of service, Professor Harpur said UQ has gone beyond simply opening doors to opportunity, but has redesigned the systems, cultures, and environments that determine who passes through them.