The Centre for Disability Studies (CDS) is a non-profit organisation that began operating in April 1997. Originally well-known as the Centre for Developmental Disability Studies (CDDS), the Centre was renamed in 2008.
Our Vision:
CDS creates and disseminates knowledge that can improve the lives of people with disabilities.
Our Mission:
We design and develop research, teaching and clinical practice to inform policy and practice which have an impact on people who have disabilities.
Our Unique Characteristics:
The Foundation Chair of Disabilities in the faculty of Medicine at the University of Sydney was held by our founding director Professor Trevor R. Parmenter. Our new director Professor Patricia O'Brien succeeded Trevor in 2009. This position provides the opportunity for direct input into the teaching of medical and allied health professionals.
Working in partnership with people with disabilities, other centres and government departments, CDS has;
- An Australian and international focus through our close links with the world wide research community. This includes current and former staff who are presidents of international and national disability organisations.
- A multi-disciplinary approach with research and teaching staff from a range of backgrounds including education, psychology, speech pathology, physiotherapy, sociology, medicine, science and dispute resolution.
- Staff who also have a wide range of practical experience in providing support to people with disabilities and their families.
(See CDS staff for further details of staff experience and qualifications.)
Our Strategies:
For More Information:
Another Demonstration 
