ABSTRACT
In efforts to decolonise disability the author question whether engagement with disability services is presented in culturally appropriate ways, including with regards to terminology. In more collective cultures, such as Indigenous groups, "value" is focused on human "being" rather than human "doing". The role of the community reference group, along with a cultural consultant, was to provide strategic advice and direction. A key responsibility was to ensure that the project was culturally appropriate, effective and met the needs of the local Indigenous community. Cultural awareness differs from competency in that the latter is in context of local cultural constructs and derives from understanding behaviours of the community engaged with. Findings from the community consultations highlighted a lack of culturally appropriate disability information and supports for both families and service providers. With regard to cultural value, a key factor within the disability workforce and Indigenous National Disability Insurance Scheme participants is a need to develop a relationship of trust.
