The First Peoples Disability Network Australia (FPDN) is the national peak organisation for First Nations people with disability, their families and communities. We are proudly owned and operated by First Nations people with disability, supported by allies with lived experience of disability.
Our purpose is to promote recognition, respect, protection, and fulfilment of human rights, secure social justice, and empower First Nations people with disability to participate in Australian society on an equal basis with others.
Mavis Wayne, photo by Belinda Mason OAM ©
How we do it
Our leadership, direction, and vision are driven by First Nations people with disability, their families and community. We work alongside First Nations people with disability across the country to influence public policy and advocate for the rights and interests of our people with disabilities. Our approach is grounded in both the social and cultural models of disability, which uphold a human rights framework and promote full inclusion.
The social model recognises that disability arises from systemic barriers within society and the physical environment that prevent equal participation. We reject the medical model of disability, which focuses narrowly on individuals rather than addressing the broader barriers that exclude people with disability. These barriers can — and must — be dismantled.
At FPDN, we also recognise the need to go beyond the social model by embedding the cultural strengths, identity, and community connections that keep First Nations people with disability strong. We call this our cultural model of inclusion.
Our work is underpinned by the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD).
Our Story
FPDN was born from a historic gathering of First Nations people with disability in 1999 — a powerful moment that sparked a national movement to advance rights, voice and justice for our communities.
Leadership & Culture
First Peoples Disability Network stands strong in culture and connection to Country, carrying forward the stories, wisdom and songlines of our ancestors and founding Elders.
Strong Governance
Inclusive, community-led governance grounded in culture, lived experience, and First Nations perspectives.
Access & Inclusion
FPDN leads with a culturally grounded approach to accessibility, ensuring inclusion is shaped by the voices, rights and priorities of First Nations people with disability across every aspect of our work.
