International Day of People with Disability and Disability Action Week 2025 at NIISQ

National Injury Insurance Scheme Queensland (NIISQ) Agency recently hosted its annual event to mark the International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD) and Disability Action Week. The event highlighted NIISQ’s commitment to inclusion and better outcomes for people with disability.

The Agency welcomed keynote speaker, Dane Cross, Chief Operating Officer of Sporting Wheelies, who shared his lived experience and insights on this year’s United Nations theme: Fostering Disability-Inclusive Societies for Advancing Social Progress. Mr Cross discussed the importance of creating environments where individuals with disability feel valued and empowered to participate fully.

The NIISQ Workforce Planning Implementation Group (WPIG) presented on the achievements of the NIISQ Disability Service Plan (DSP) over the past year. The DSP, launched during IDPwD in 2024, outlines 20 actions aimed at improving outcomes for people with disability. In 2025, significant progress was made across several areas. For participants, NIISQ delivered communication and AI training to the Participant Reference Group (PRG), with plans to continue this initiative until 2026. Research funding assessments were also aligned with Australia’s Disability Strategy.

As part of the DSP’s people-focused initiatives, recruitment practices were reviewed to better attract and engage people with disability, including the trial of a video interviewing platform to improve the accessibility of the application process. Disability awareness and inclusion training for staff and leadership was advanced, with these programs co-designed alongside employees with disability and caring responsibilities. Community-focused efforts included the publication of an internal event accessibility toolkit to support inclusive event planning.

Physical accessibility was improved through office audits, which received positive feedback on existing features. New accessible conference room doors were also installed to enhance usability for all staff and visitors.

The event provided an opportunity to reflect on the progress made and to recognise the contributions of NIISQ staff and stakeholders. NIISQ remains committed to building on these achievements and continuing its efforts to create a more accessible and inclusive workplace and community.

Further initiatives are planned for 2026, including ongoing training programs, hosting Australian Disability Network interns, and additional accessibility improvements. NIISQ looks forward to continuing its work to enhance inclusion and accessibility for all.