ISSUE 6: OCTOBER 2025
Accessibility is about more than accommodating disability. It’s about challenging the assumptions that limit people’s potential. True inclusion means seeing beyond what’s visible and recognising that disability does not define ability. When we create space for everyone to thrive, we build a society grounded in respect and understanding.
Law student Cyrus shares their experience as a disability support worker and the preconceived judgments many people face surrounding physical disability.
*The name Cyrus has been used to protect the identity of the interviewee.
“For the past five years I have been working casually as a disability support worker alongside my Bachelor of laws Bachelor of Business degrees and it has been an experience that has considerably shaped my life and perspectives. I have worked with people who have varying disabilities such as cerebral palsy, autism, epilepsy, depression and TBI. Despite these variations, one thing that is common amongst all my clients is their desire to live an independent and enriched life.
One of my clients is a man who has severe cerebral palsy and a movement disorder. He requires full time care and uses a wheelchair. Despite the barriers he faces, he is consistently involved in many community activities such as going to music festivals, NRL games and the movies. One story that really shaped me was a conversation I had with his mother about the difficulties he faced in primary school and high school. She explained that due to the lack of education and awareness amongst the teachers surrounding her son’s disabilities, they assumed his disabilities were a learning impairment, however, his disabilities were predominately physical and did not impair his ability to learn. This moment reminded me that although some people may have a visible disability, you cannot discount their overall abilities.
In a broader context, I hope the world moves in a way where instead of discounting a disabled person’s capabilities, we adjust our society to suit their unique needs and help them reach their full potential.”
A big thank you to Cyrus* for sharing their reflections as a disability support worker and for highlighting the importance of recognising ability beyond what’s visible. I hope this piece encourages readers to challenge assumptions and advocate for a more inclusive and understanding community.
For any questions or feedback, please reach out at accessibility@utslss.com. All communication will be handled with confidentiality unless otherwise stated.