What is the Disability Studies and Research Institute?

The Disability Studies and Research Institute (DSaRI) undertakes research into and education about disability issues from a social perspective and promotes public debate associated with the social dimensions of disability. The Institute involves stakeholders from universities, organisations of people with disabilities, the research community, policy and service delivery bodies, industry and the wider community. It aims for a wider understanding and debate about the social processes that disable people.

DSaRI’s Vision

DSaRI will actively use and promote a social perspective on disability education and research to maximise Australia’s capacity to ensure a more equitable, participatory and accessible society for people with disabilities.

DSaRI’s Functions

Basic and applied research
Development, support and delivery of educational programs
Collaborative research in conjunction with community, academic and industry partners
Policy debate through policy submissions, papers, public forums and conferences
Mentoring and development of researchers
Publication of research and policy papers.

How are members involved?

The membership of DSaRI links the work of the Institute with the broader community of organisations who share an interest in social perspectives in disability research. Membership is available to organisations in a range of categories which reflect the Institute’s major stakeholder groups, including:

Organisations of people with disabilities
Universities
Policy and service delivery bodies
Industry.

Individuals are eligible for Associate Membership.

Governance of the Institute

A Chief Executive Officer, under policies determined by a Board, manages the Institute. The DSaRI Board is elected by the organisations that make up the membership. Full organisational members nominate a delegate to represent the organisation and vote on its behalf. Delegates are eligible for nomination to the Board. Additionally there is scope for the Board to co-opt individuals with particular skills of interest.

All members (Full and Associate) are eligible for appointment to the Advisory Council that makes recommendations to the Board regarding strategic priorities and research programs. All members are also encouraged to be active in the various working groups that assist the Institute in its activities. These groups include research, policy, education and publications. The Institute is located at one of the stakeholder organisations, though operates in different locations, depending on the project.

Contacting the Institute