Creating Sustainable Futures for Queenslanders with Intellectual Disability

Our current research is investigating, which types of neighbourhood best support independent living for adults with intellectual disability. These adults have the very real prospect of outliving their parents, and this is causing significant stress for families when considering accommodation and housing options. Adults with an intellectual disability should not be forced into inappropriate housing options, such as aged care or group housing if they do not wish. Everyone has a right to housing choice. Indeed a United Nation’s Convention establishes that “Persons with disabilities have the opportunity to choose their place of residence and where and with whom they live on an equal basis with others and are not obliged to live in a particular living” (United Nations, 2006 p 13). Not all neighbourhoods are equal, and our research is exploring which neighbourhoods and the characteristics of them that may best suit ongoing independent living. Through collaboration involving adults with intellectual disability, their families, government and the industry we are delivering a practical framework which will support decision-making for the design, redesign and choices options of neighbourhoods and housing when it comes to better supporting the future lives of everyone in our community.; ;