The Hon Peter Garrett MP, Minister for School Education, has released the Terms of Reference and Discussion Paper for the Review.

• Read the Media Release

Terms of reference

In reviewing the effectiveness of the Standards, the Review will consider whether the Standards:

1. have provided clarity and specificity for education and training providers and for students with disability and their families in relation to their rights and requirements under the Disability Discrimination Act 1992
2. have assisted people with disability to access and participate in education and training opportunities on the same basis as those without disability
3. have assisted in eliminating discrimination (including harassment and victimisation) of people with disability in education and training
4. have promoted recognition and acceptance in the community of the principle that people with disability have the same fundamental rights as the rest of the community
5. are compatible with Australia’s current education and training system.

Discussion paper

A discussion paper has been prepared which sets out some key questions for the Review.

• Review of the Disability Standards for Education 2005 Discussion Paper
  ( PDF 1.6MB | RTF 465KB)

Alternative formats of the Terms of Reference and Discussion Paper can be requested by calling 1300 363 079

Review Update

The consultation process for the Review has now been completed.

National roundtable discussions were conducted in February and March 2011 with key stakeholders and peak organisations in each capital city.

200 submissions have been received from a wide range of stakeholders including education providers and users, advocacy and community organisations, parents, carers and student groups, state and territory governments and unions.

Submissions are currently being analysed for a report to the Minister for Education and the Attorney General later in the year. We would like to thank everyone for their participation in the consultation process. All of the information gathered from the face to face roundtable discussions and the submissions has been invaluable for the Review.

Background to the Review

Part 11 of the Disability Standards for Education provides for a review of the Standards every five years to determine whether the Standards continue to be effective and remain the most efficient mechanism for achieving the objects of the Disability Discrimination Act 1992.

More information about the Standards can be found on the DEEWR website.