Decolonising disability: weaving a Quandamooka conceptualisation of disability and care

Abstract

This manuscript delves into Indigenous experiences of disability, specifically the Quandamooka community, starting with contextualising disability among First Nations people in Australia. It summarises criticisms of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and offers historical insights into Quandamooka country and Indigenous disability in Australia. Central to this manuscript are Quandamooka caring principles which highlight disability’s cultural significance and its triadic essence within Quandamooka society. Collectively, these principles underpin social connections, encompassing elements like collective wisdoms and the custodial ethic. These foundations yield pillars of collective protection, activated through kinship circles. These insights resonate with disability themes for Maori peoples where fostering compassion, acceptance, support, and interdependence are important for well-being.