Working within the University Context

In the context of University equity commitments and a legislative requirement under the Disability Discrimination Act to provide reasonable adjustments, the Disability Liaison Unit provides services that facilitate the participation for students with disabilities enrolled at The University of Melbourne.

The services provided by the DLU are dependent on the impact of a disability, which may vary as a result of individual coping strategies, functional impairment and the educational context. A core competency of the DLU is the ability to assess the impact of a disability and identify adjustments that reduce this impact in a manner that is congruent with existing University practice, policy and standards.

The DLU provides direct support to students with high support needs which can include the provision of sign language interpreters, materials in an accessible format, notetakers, transcription services and participation assistance in laboratory classes.

The DLU refers students to internal and external support services and agencies where appropriate. Internal supports are available across academic and administrative departments including faculties, the library, information technology services and Academic Services Division.

The DLU makes recommendations to academic staff about reasonable adjustments that can be made to facilitate the participation of students with disabilities. Recommended reasonable adjustments can include alterations to assessment, support for Special Consideration applications and access to additional learning materials. Reasonable adjustments are mindful of academic integrity and graduate attributes the University strives to attain.

The DLU works closely with departments across the University to reduce systemic barriers for students with disabilities. The DLU has a presence on University committees to identify and address issues that impact on the participation of students with disabilities. Physical infrastructure barriers are identified and resolved in collaboration with Property and Buildings. Information technology barriers are identified and resolved in collaboration with staff from the Information Division. Attitudinal barriers across the University are reduced through the provision of disability awareness training programs and development of staff publications.

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