Language Guides

The words we use shape how people are understood, included and respected. Language guides can support more confident, accurate and respectful communication about disability, access and inclusion. They can help avoid outdated terms, stereotypes and deficit-based language, while recognising that people may describe themselves in different ways.

Easy Read, plain language and symbols can also make information easier to understand and use. There is no single rule that applies to every person or community, so listening and asking respectfully is important. This page brings together guides and resources to support better communication with d/Deaf and disabled people, artists, audiences and communities.

Recommended Resources

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ADNA acknowledges the lived and living experience of people with disability and their family members, carers and supporters.

We recognise the huge contribution people with lived and living experience make to ADNA's work, disability advocacy, and arts and culture in general.

ADNA uses ‘person-first language,’ emphasising the person, not the disability. As a disability-led organisation, we also embrace ‘identity-first’ language, acknowledging disability as identity.

ADNA acknowledges the many Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia. We honour their Elders past and present. We cherish the richness of First Nations peoples' artistic and cultural expressions.

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