Equity: the arts and disability associated plan

A four year roadmap laying the foundations for greater representation and equity in cultural and creative life for d/Deaf and disabled artists and arts workers, as well as for audiences with disability. 

The plan reveals a high representation of people with disabilities among practising professional artists in Australia, estimated at 16% – nearly double the figure from 2017. However, disabled artists experience significant barriers, with 10% attributing their disability as the primary factor hindering their career development.

The plan acknowledges the challenges and barriers faced by disabled artists and arts workers, including ableism, inaccessibility, and financial constraints, and outlines actions to address these barriers. The plan is intended as a supporting framework for Australia’s Disability Strategy 2021–2031 (Australia’s Disability Strategy) and Australia’s cultural policy for the next five years, Revive. 

The Plan’s three priorities for action are:

1. Recognising d/Deaf and disabled artists and arts workers as central to our vibrant arts and cultural sector.
2. Strong and inclusive governments and organisations.
3. Engaging the audience: fair, open and equitable access to arts and culture.