Taking action as a peer network
By working together, Peer Networks can make real changes happen.
What’s the problem?
The first thing a Peer Network needs to do is to figure out what is the problem they want to solve. The group needs to agree that it’s a problem and a priority for the group. Splitting the energy of the group can defeat its purpose and water down your efforts.
What are Some Solutions?
Once you’ve figured out the problem, figure out a solution, or several potential solutions, that will get you closer to reaching your goal.
One to One Approach
A phone call is often a good start, but following up with a letter or email that describes the problem, and the possible solutions, is sometimes all it takes!
Group Meeting
If that doesn’t get the results you’re looking for, it’s probably time for the Peer group to meet with the owners/managers/leaders, to present your case directly. Let them know how this affects your Group, you as individuals, and how many other people they’re affecting.
They may have some good reasons for their inaction or denial – so it’s always worth listening to their barriers.
Fundraising
Often solutions can be improved with appropriate funding, so identifying possible funding sources can be very valuable – council, state or federal government all offer various grants and matching schemes. So do many service groups and not-for-profit organisations, as well as philanthropic funds.
Target the Industry Group/Peak Body
When an owner/manager/leader is clearly being dismissive, or lazy or apparently wilfully discriminatory, it might be time to contact their peak associations or professional organisation to make a formal complaint. A small local footy club might not see the benefit in including a child with autism on the team, but you can almost bet the AFL would want to help!
Let your Parliamentarians Know
As the stakes rise, you might need to get your local Parliamentarians involved. It’s much easier for a Group to be taken seriously and get a meeting with a politician, than it is for an individual. They can exert strong pressure and write letters on behalf of your group to make things move faster, support a grant application or help encourage people to do the right thing.
Tell Your Story to a Bigger Audience
An online petition or Social Media campaign of sharing information can be very effective at building awareness of the problem, and encouraging companies and groups to do the right thing.
When all else fails, putting a media spotlight on a lack of inclusivity might not change the original complaint, but will likely help others to feel brave and energized enough to make their own complaints, and who knows, they might even join your Group and support you!
Legal Eagles – Using our Courts and/or Human Rights Commission
When you don’t get the progress you need, or are still being discriminated against, you can always make a complaint to the Human Rights Commission. There is no cost for this service and they will work to mediate the issue.
If that still doesn’t get what is needed, you might consider filing with the federal courts. There will likely be fees – both from the court and lawyers to take this path, so it should not be started without careful consideration. A government funded (free for people with disability) Advocacy service may also be helpful.
Useful links and resources
The National Disability Strategy 2010-2020 provides a ten-year national policy framework for improving life for Australians with disability, their families and carers: https://www.dss.gov.au/our-responsibilities/disability-and-carers/program-services/government-international/national-disability-strategy
Human Rights Commission: https://www.humanrights.gov.au/complaint-information
Government Funded Advocacy Organisations: https://www.dss.gov.au/our-responsibilities/disability-and-carers/program-services/for-people-with-disability/national-disability-advocacy-program-ndap
Co-authored by: The Growing Space
The information on this page is also available as a downloadable Quick Guide, by clicking below. There are.pdf and word versions.