Disability Discrimination Act review: Why it matters for people who are blind or have low vision

The Australian Government is undertaking a review of the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (DDA).  This landmark legislation has been central to protecting the rights of people with disability for more than 30 years, but the Disability Royal Commission suggested there are ways it can be modernised and strengthened. This is what the review will be looking at, and you will have the chance to help shape it.

Consultation is now open, and the government is inviting people with disability, advocacy groups, and community organisations to share their experiences and ideas for reform. You can make a submission online, and even a short one can make a difference.

For Vision Australia and the people and organisations we work alongside, this review is an important opportunity to shape laws that better reflect lived experience and remove the barriers that people who are blind or have low vision face every day.

Why reform matters

Reclaiming rights through accessibility and independence

Accessibility is at the heart of independence for people who are blind or have low vision. Refining the DDA to give stronger, clearer definitions of what “reasonable adjustments” really mean, would help remove everyday barriers. Strengthening protections for the use of assistance animals would also make it easier for people to navigate public spaces, transport, and services without unnecessary challenges.

Turning reaction into pro-action

Currently, organisations often respond only after discrimination has occurred. A proactive legal framework would require them to anticipate barriers and take steps to prevent discrimination before it happens. For people who are blind or have low vision, this could mean accessible digital platforms, inclusive recruitment processes, or staff training to understand specific needs. Embedding this ‘positive duty’ in law makes sure that inclusion is built in, not left to chance.

Ensuring intersectional inclusion

Discrimination does not happen in isolation. People who are blind or have low vision may face additional challenges because of things like race, culture, age, gender, or socio-economic status. Reform that recognises these intersecting challenges ensures that protections under the DDA are meaningful for everyone.  

Aligning advocacy with real experiences

The consultation process is a key opportunity for Vision Australia and community members to directly influence reform. Sharing lived experiences through submissions, focus groups, or forums ensures that lawmakers hear the real-world challenges people face every day. This input is critical for shaping policies that are practical, effective, and reflective of the communities they affect.

Reflecting lived realities in law

Laws are only as strong as their connection to real life. This review is a chance to ensure that legal protections match the everyday realities of people who are blind or have low vision, from navigating public spaces to accessing services, employment, and education. By grounding law in lived experience, we can make discrimination not just illegal, but preventable.

The DDA was built to protect your rights, now is the time to make sure it protects them better than ever. Visit the Australian Government’s DDA Review consultation page to learn more and share your experiences.