International human rights must be addressed by Senate Inquiry into education for students with disabilities

Australian Lawyers for Human Rights (ALHR) strongly supports the Senate Inquiry into the education of students with disabilities.  Recent reports of students with disabilities being targeted and improperly treated in schools throughout Australia must be properly examined and the respective bodies be held to account.  “Education is fundamental human right and one which must be fiercely protected, particularly for students with disabilities” said Nathan Kennedy, President, ALHR.

Article 24 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with a Disability (CRPD) expressly provides the right for people with a disability to have an inclusive and quality education where support measures are provided in environments that maximise academic and social development consistent with the goal of full inclusion.  ALHR calls on the Senate Committee conducting the Inquiry to place article 24 at the centre of their work, Mr Kennedy emphasises that “every child with a disability in Australia must access an inclusive education with proper support”.

Recent breaches of international human rights that have exposed children being physically and emotionally mistreated while at school must be considered by the Senate Inquiry. Further consideration for future safeguards and supports must also be given to ensure that students with disabilities in Australia are able to enjoy their right to education.

“ALHR applauds the Senate Inquiry into the education of students with disabilities and looks forward to making a submission” says Mr Kennedy.

Media Contact:   Nathan Kennedy, President, ALHR

M: 0417 267 143 E: president@alhr.org.au