IDPwD is a United Nations (UN) day observed internationally. It aims to promote community awareness, understanding and acceptance of people with disability.

Each year the UN announces a theme to observe for International Day of People with Disability. The annual theme provides an overarching focus on how society can strive for inclusivity through the removal of physical, technological and attitudinal barriers for people with disability. This has been occurring since 1992 when the General Assembly announced 3 December as the International Day of Disabled Persons.

In Australia, IDPwD is a joint effort between government, schools, organisations, community groups, businesses and individuals.

IDPwD is an opportunity to be part of creating an inclusive and diverse community for the 5.5 million people with disability in Australia.

The Australian Government through the Department of Social Services funds a national program to help promote and raise awareness of this day.

Church marks International Day of People with Disability

Australian Catholic Bishops Conference (ACBC), 28 November 2024

The Catholic Church in Australia is committed to upholding and protecting the dignity and wellbeing of all people with disabilities.

Bishops Commission for Social Justice, Mission and Service chair, Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv, said the International Day of People with Disability – to be marked on Tuesday, December 3 – is an important time of the year.

“In the wake of the Royal Commission on Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability, Australia’s Catholic bishops wish to acknowledge the significance of the International Day of People with Disability,” Bishop Long said.

“We need to increase community awareness, understanding and inclusion of people with disabilities.

“These goals are consistent with Catholic social teaching which upholds the rights, dignity, and wellbeing of the vulnerable.”

Pope Francis states that “no disability – temporary, acquired or permanent – can change the fact that we are all children of the one Father and enjoy the same dignity”.

Australians are asked to pray for, and work towards, a just society that offers the most vulnerable in the community equal opportunities, compassion, and inclusion. (Read Full Statement)

The International Day of People with Disability (IDPWD) was introduced by the United Nations in 1992 and has been supported by the Australian Government since 1996. Taking place on 3 December each year, this day aims to increase public awareness, understanding and acceptance of people with disability, and to celebrate their achievements and contributions.

The Australian Catholic Bishops Conference Disability Projects Office has prepared a range of helpful media resources for the celebration of the International Day of Persons with Disability (3 December 2024).

Join the discussion below and tell us how you will mark the International Day of People With Disability 2024.