Disillusion and delay: CYDA’s survey of the learning experiences of children and young people with disability in 2024
This report summarises the findings of two Australian surveys of nearly 400 children and young people with disability, and parents or caregivers, conducted in 2024 and early 2025. Taken together, the surveys provide a comprehensive view into the experiences and challenges faced by students with disability, families and caregivers as they navigate Australia’s education system.
Despite ongoing advocacy spanning three decades, and recommendations from the Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability, the discriminatory status quo remains firmly entrenched. The 2024–25 survey results reflect little to no change from prior years. This document is a call to action, outlining the key areas of concern and priority for children and young people with disability, and those who care for and support them.
Ongoing systemic issues include:
- widespread bullying and exclusion
- ineffective school support planning
- lack of teacher training
- non-inclusive school cultures.
Recommendations
- Strengthen school mechanisms supporting inclusion.
- Implement a National Roadmap to inclusive education.
- Invest in training, support and professional development.
