The Disability Inclusion Act 2018 (SA) defines disability as
“In relation to a person, includes long-term physical, psycho-social, intellectual, cognitive, neurological or sensory impairment, or a combination of any of these impairments, which in interaction with various barriers may hinder the person’s full and effective participation in society on an equal basis with others”.
Disability includes a broad range of lived experiences across all ages, backgrounds and communities. It may be visible or invisible, permanent, temporary or episodic, and can include physical, sensory, intellectual, cognitive, psychosocial and neurological disability, as well as chronic health conditions and neurodivergence. Recognising this diversity is essential to designing inclusive systems and services that respond effectively to individual and community needs.
Consistent with the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (Cth), disability is understood broadly and is not limited by diagnosis, visibility or severity. The interaction between people and physical, social, attitudinal and systemic barriers can affect access, participation and inclusion.
This DAIP is informed by a social and human rights based understanding of disability. SAPOL adopts a strengths based, person centred approach that recognises the rights, capabilities and contributions of people with disability, and focuses on reducing barriers across services, systems, environments and workplaces to support access, safety and inclusion for all South Australians.
Disability may intersect with a range of personal, cultural and social factors. Intersectionality recognises that aspects such as First Nations identity, cultural background, age, gender, sexuality, socioeconomic status and geographic location can intersect, compounding barriers and shaping how people access and experience policing services.
Applying an intersectional lens supports the design and delivery of policing services that are inclusive, culturally safe, trauma informed, and responsive to diverse needs. This approach aligns with the State Disability Inclusion Plan 2025–2029 and supports SAPOL’s obligations under the Disability Inclusion Act 2018 (SA).
SAPOL acknowledges that some people with disability experience disproportionate interaction with policing due to intersecting factors. Understanding disability and intersectionality supports SAPOL to meet its legislative obligations and to deliver policing services that are accessible, equitable and effective, strengthening safety and trust for people with disability across the South Australian community.