First Nations Disability Network (FPDN) has released a statement around the deaths of First Nations people with disability in Australia.

Physical Disability Australia
Media Releases
Sep 2025

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander readers are advised this release contains names and references to people who have died.

New court filing has exposed a pattern of fatal restraints for First Nations people with disability that has been hidden.

This information surfaced after court documents revealed a young Aboriginal man died of acute respiratory failure, the result of being held in a bear hug with a knee to his back whilst in the care of registered NDIS provider Life Without Barriers in Alice Springs.

FPDN’s statement tells of the devastating pattern of preventable deaths, and sets out Non-Negotiable Demands for Immediate Action.

“ ‘FPDN asks all allies to elevate the voice of Mob in recognising that too many First Nations people with disability are on a predictable pathway to premature death, created by catastrophic and intersecting failures across Australia’s disability, guardianship, and justice systems.’ “

https://fpdn.org.au/hidden-for-three-years-new-court-filing-exposes-pattern-of-fatal-restraints-for-first-nations-people-with-disability

Physical Disability Australia (PDA) is a national peak Disability Peoples Organisation run by and for people with physical disability, advocating for equal opportunity, inclusion and human rights across Australia. Established in 1995, PDA represents the voices and lived experiences of its members to influence policy, engage with government, and drive meaningful change, ensuring people with physical disability are respected, empowered and able to participate fully in all aspects of society.

Speak up. Get involved.

Whether you’re living with a disability, know someone who is, or simply believe in equal rights — your voice matters.

Join the Movement. Amplify Every Voice.

Together, we can break barriers and build a more inclusive world.

First Nations Disability Network (FPDN) has released a statement around the deaths of First Nations people with disability in Australia.

Speak up. Get involved.

Join the Movement. Amplify Every Voice.

Primary Category