Our mission is to improve the lives of people with intellectual disability. We do this by creating and sharing knowledge and evidence, and developing the best approaches and inclusive practices.
CDS believes all people with intellectual disability should live autonomous lives. They should make their own choices, and be engaged with, and valued by, their communities and wider society.
CDS has an active research program focused on different aspects of living with intellectual disability. These projects are carried out to provide advice to disability organisations and government, and to advance knowledge in the sector.
uni 2 beyond supports people with an intellectual disability to study courses for interest and take part in university life.
Learn new skills, make new friends, plan your future.
The Instrument for the Classification and Assessment of Support Needs (I-CAN) has been designed to assess and guide support delivery for people with a disability, including mental illness. Find out why the I-CAN tool would be a good choice for your business.
Read more about the wide range of work CDS has been doing to improve the lives of people with disability:
It’s time to come together, to rethink health care for people with intellectual disability. Join us for the National Centre of Excellence in Intellectual Disability Health Conference 2025! 3-4 July. […]
Read more
Despite the UN’s commitment to inclusive education, individuals with intellectual disabilities still face significant barriers in accessing higher education, limiting their opportunities for personal growth, social inclusion and career prospects. […]
Read more
Are you passionate about creating a more inclusive world? Do you want to make a difference for people with intellectual disabilities? The Inclusive Governance Committee needs members to share their […]
Read moreThe Centre for Disability Studies is committed to the inclusion of people with disability in all aspects of our work.
One important way we do this is through our Inclusive Research Network (IRN). This is a group of people with intellectual disabilities who work as co-researchers alongside other CDS staff. The IRN has completed a wide range of projects. Currently they are co-designing and conducting a major Australian Research Council study, which will investigate how effectively the NDIS is supporting people with intellectual disabilites. The IRN can also provide consultation services to government, businesses, and service providers.
Find out more about the Inclusive Research Network, if you are interested either in joining as a researcher, or hiring their services for your organisation.
CDS is a non-profit organisation that relies entirely on grants and donations to continue its important and life-changing work. You can play a vital role by supporting a CDS project of your choosing.
