About DARU
DARU is unique in Australia as a dedicated resource unit funded to work with disability advocacy organisations to promote and protect the rights of people with disability. We develop and distribute resources and provide training opportunities to keep disability advocates informed and up-to-date about issues affecting people with disability in Victoria.
DARU proudly hosts the advocacy sector’s flagship event each year in Melbourne in partnership with Disability Advocacy Victoria and Victorian Council of Social Services (VCOSS). Check out the conference website to catch up on past sessions:
Strengthening Disability Advocacy Conference
Find an Advocate
Directory of organisations for agencies delivering disability advocacy as well as complaints bodies, campaigners, support groups and useful referral and information services.
Find an advocateOur Publications
A collection of information sheets and reports including ‘What is disability advocacy?’, ‘How to be disability inclusive’ and ‘How we talk about disability matters’.
Browse publicationsOnline Courses
Unaccredited online training that supports skill development for providing human rights based advocacy practice. The courses are self-paced and free of charge. Register and learnAdvocacy Sector Conversations Forum
This forum series provides in depth knowledge on topics that impact disability advocacy practice. Session resources include video, audio, transcript and useful links. Browse resourcesDisability Royal Commission
Commentary around the Commission’s proceedings with analysis and perspectives under investigation. Find out moreIn the news
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Experts hope AI tool can cut use of restraints and seclusion on NDIS participants
Australian researchers hope a new AI-supported educational program will help reduce the use of restraints and seclusion on people with disability. The Promoting Positive Behaviour Support Practice program is designed to help practitioners create safer, respectful, constructive plans to guide carers and support workers’ responses to challenging behaviour.
Revealed: Private school students reap thousands more than public students in disability funding
Exclusive: New data shows children with disabilities at wealthy fee-paying schools are receiving up to six times the government support funding as those at public schools