News

The Disability Wellbeing Index (DWI) held its first User Group meeting on 28 September, bringing together representatives from research, government, disability services, advocacy organisations and end-user groups.

Chaired by Gozde Aydin, the meeting provided an opportunity to share experiences of using the DWI, discuss recent research and identify priorities for its future development.

Members heard updates on research involving the standard and Easy English versions of the DWI, work with adolescents, and plans for the Longitudinal NDIS Well-being Study. Participants also shared their experiences of integrating the DWI into service settings and discussed how it could help understand the value of NDIS plans beyond service use.

Accessibility was a key focus, including how to support participation by people with high communication support needs. The group also highlighted the importance of First Nations-led research to explore how the DWI captures cultural wellbeing.

Thank you to everyone who contributed. The User Group will provide an ongoing forum for sharing knowledge and helping shape the DWI’s development and use.

We were saddened to learn of the recent passing of Dr Raelene West, a valued friend and colleague of the DWI team. Rae was a strong and courageous disability scholar and advocate, bringing intellect, incisive systemic thinking, and humour to all her endeavours.

Rae worked with us on the initial qualitative research that informed the development of the DWI items. She approached this work with rigour and with a steadfast commitment to achieving the best outcomes for disabled people.

Rae will be greatly missed. We extend our sincere condolences to her family, friends, and colleagues.