Dear disability advocates, sector partners and allies,

What a year 2024 has been.

There has been a lot to digest- the responses from state and federal governments to the Disability Royal Commission, the release of the findings from the NDIS Review, changes to the NDIS Legislation, and the commencement of the design of Foundational Supports.

This is only the beginning; 2025 and beyond looks to be even more change, reform and movement in the disability reform space, and its never been more important for disability advocates to be on the front foot of all of this change, ready to respond and ensure that people with disabilities voices are at the centre of all new changes.

Its important to acknowledge that with all of this change, comes a huge risk of vicarious trauma. The disability community is on edge, and disability advocates are often carrying the load of the collective anxiety and fear of what comes next, compounded by being in a resource constrained environment. it has been an extra difficult year.

As we close out 2024, and welcome in 2025, we would like to offer the following reflections

• We can only control what is in our control- and this is our own thoughts, emotions and reactions, how we care and speak to ourselves and where we spend our time and energy.
• We cannot pour from an empty cup- the disability advocacy sector attracts incredible values based people, who give all that they have to the cause- however to be ready and energised to tackle the new year, you must make sure that you are replenishing your own cup.
• Self care is not about bubble baths and massages- it is about taking care of physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects of your life to enable you to be your best self- always. It is not self-indulgent, it is essential to reduce your risk of long term illness, burnout and ensure you are healthy and well.
• Everyone around you is going through something- so be kind, always.

As we close the doors for 2024, and take a well earned break, ask yourselves- what are you doing for you, to enable you to be your best self in 2025?

Wishing you all an amazing holiday and we very much look forward to working with you all again in 2025

The DARU Team
Melissa, Damian and Noah