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A Brief History of Disability in Colonial Australia

CPD Points 1 CPD
Prerequisites Personal TrainerAqua Exercise InstructorGym InstructorGroup Exercise InstructorGroup Exercise LeaderYoga InstructorYoga TherapistFitness Pilates InstructorPilates Method TeacherTai Chi Instructor
Approval Code 08331AA
Course Type OnlineDistance
Course Provider
Delivery Knowledge & Skills (DKS)
  • Specific Populations Disabilities
  • Specific Populations Mental Health Conditions
  • Specific Populations Neurological Conditions

Additional Information

This course offers fitness professionals a powerful, human-rights aligned introduction to the history of disability in Australia. Designed to challenge outdated assumptions and foster inclusive practice, it traces the evolution of societal attitudes—from charity and medical models to rights-based approaches. Participants will explore key historical events, policies, and social movements that have shaped the lives of disabled Australians.

The course centres disabled voices and knowledge, with a strong focus on how historical narratives continue to influence fitness culture, access, and representation today. Participants will critically reflect on the legacy of institutionalisation, ableism, and segregation—and learn to identify how these systems persist in fitness environments.

By understanding the history, participants will gain insight into the lived experience of disability, and be better equipped to create affirming, inclusive spaces. This is not simply an academic course: it is a call to action.

Accessible, flexible, and self-paced, the course features engaging written content, short videos, and a quiz to consolidate learning. It is suitable for all fitness professionals and is especially valuable for those working in community, disability, and health-related settings.