December 10 is Human Rights Day and here’s why that’s important

December 10 is Human Rights Day and here’s why that’s important.

December 10 is Human Rights Day. The day gives us time to reflect on the fundamental freedoms and dignity that every person is entitled to. Here at Afford, this day is more than a symbolic reminder. It represents our ongoing commitment to embed human rights into every part of our work, culture and decision making.

In Australia, the scale of disability is significant. According to the latest Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) data, 5.5 million Australians, or 21.4 per cent of the population, had a disability in 2022. That is more than one in five Australians with about 8 per cent living with a profound or severe disability. These figures make clear it’s essential that disability support is guided by a strong human rights foundation.

Human rights first and foremost.

Human Rights First

As Afford CEO Jo Toohey explains, “Every person we support deserves the freedom to make choices, participate fully in community life and be respected for who they are.”

This belief is central to how we operate. It means seeing people with disability as full and equal citizens who should be active decision makers in their own lives.

Across the sector, the shift toward the Human Rights Model is reshaping how support is delivered. Rather than viewing disability as a problem to be fixed, this model recognises disability as a natural part of human diversity. It prioritises autonomy, equality, accessibility and inclusion. This is vital in a country where many people with disability continue to face discrimination, barriers to participation and limited choice.

Everyone deserves to live life on their own terms.

Today And Every Day

At Afford, we are committed to strengthening our systems, elevating the voices of the people we support and co designing services that genuinely empower individuals.

“On Human Rights Day and every day, our mission is clear,” says Ms Toohey. “We want to create environments where every person feels seen, heard and valued.”

The future of disability support depends on the sector fully embracing the Human Rights Model. At Afford, we are proud to help lead that future and to champion dignity, choice and inclusion as core human rights for all.

Human Rights Day – A Quick Look

Establishing Human Rights Day

• In 1950, the UN General Assembly formally proclaimed 10 December as Human Rights Day, encouraging all countries to celebrate the importance of human rights through education, advocacy and action.

Human Rights Day Today

• Human Rights Day is now marked around the world with events, campaigns, speeches and activities that promote equality, justice and freedom.
• Each year, it is guided by a theme, often focusing on current global issues such as discrimination, climate justice, inclusion, empowerment and the rights of marginalised communities, including people with disability.

Its Ongoing Relevance

Human Rights Day remains a powerful reminder that human rights are not guaranteed. They require collective commitment and continuous advocacy from governments, organisations and communities to protect the dignity and equality of all people.