WHO WE ARE

We recognise that not everyone communicates in the same way

Many people communicate using little or no speech and use resources such as pictorial aids or computers to express their meaning with others. Other people may use gestures or behaviour to communicate with those around them, and require people to develop knowledge of their individual communication style to interact in meaningful ways.

At Communication Rights Australia, we are focused on creating an inclusive society where all people feel as though they can express themselves in their own way. We believe that there is no ‘right’ way to connect with others, and that it is our job to help people understand the wide variety of ways in which communication takes place.

In the past, we have supported people who communicate with little or no speech via individual advocacy. We have worked with hundreds of individuals to ensure that their rights were realised including gaining access to the right services and supports. In recent times, Communication Rights has been unable to provide individual advocacy because of changes in the way these services are funded. However, we continue to advocate for people’s communication rights via systemic advocacy, which involves lobbying for long-term social change via legislation, policies and practices which aim to improve the rights and interests of people who use little or no speech. We also continue to provide information and training about communication rights. The topics we address help individuals and organisations to:

• Understand the “basics” of communication including “alternative” methods of expression
• Support people who use little or no speech or whom have “high” communication support needs
• Create inclusivity within services and other environments for people who communicate using little or no speech
• Help individuals and organisations understand how they can advocate for people with “high” communication support needs in ways which are respectful and promote their right to self determination.

For more information on the services Communication Rights Australia provides or the work the organisation is currently doing, please contact policy@communicationrights.org.au.