Community, Curiosity, and Inclusion: Highlights from IDPwD

This year’s International Day of People with Disability brought our region together in a powerful and meaningful way. Across the South West we joined hundreds of community members, families, supporters, and local organisations who all gathered to recognise rights, inclusion, and the strength that comes from listening to each other.

Here in Bunbury, more than one hundred and twenty people joined us for a day filled with connection and conversation. One of the highlights was our You Can Ask That panel, which attracted an incredible turnout. The audience brought thoughtful questions, the panel shared generous insights, and together we created a space where people felt safe to speak openly about disability, identity, and everyday experiences.

You Can Ask That is built on a simple idea, it is always better to ask than to assume. These conversations challenge stigma, open minds, and give people with disability the opportunity to lead the discussion. The energy in the room made it clear how important this space is for our community.

We recorded the full panel thanks to support from Workforce Australia and will be uploading the video to our website and YouTube channel soon. Keep an eye out, the discussion is well worth watching.

Our celebrations were not limited to Bunbury.
Our advocates travelled right across the South West to support local community events. We extend heartfelt thanks to the Shire of Dardanup, the Shire of Capel, and the Shire of Harvey for the thoughtful and welcoming events you hosted today. Each gathering created a space where people with disability could connect, feel valued, and experience community that celebrates everyone.

This week has been full of connection. On Monday we joined the Shire of Donnybrook Balingup for their celebration, and last weekend we spent time with the City of Busselton enjoying another set of fantastic community activities.

With so much happening across the region, it can be easy to miss an event. We encourage everyone to keep an eye on our socials next year as we will once again create an IDPwD planner and event link to help you stay updated and find the celebrations near you. Here is this year’s planner and event details if you would like to take a look:
https://linktr.ee/IDPwDBG

We will continue working alongside our community, local governments, and partners to make sure you know what is happening and when for next year's events.

The momentum continues beyond today. Our monthly You Can Ask That sessions begin again in January, and you are invited to submit your questions here:
https://forms.office.com/r/YFaALrmJbX

Thank you to everyone who joined us, volunteered, or shared their voice. Days like this remind us that inclusion grows through curiosity, respect, and the courage to ask questions.

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