VALiD – Having a Say

We’re proud to partner with VALiD to support the Having a Say conference — a powerful platform for self-advocacy, connection and celebration. Every year, hundreds of people come together to speak up, be heard, and have fun in a space where all voices matter.

What is Having a Say?

The Having a Say (HaS) has become the largest conference for people with disabilities within Australia, with 500 – 600 people with disability attending along with their families and supporters.

It is a self-advocacy and peer support activity where people find their voice, learn to speak up, are heard, and are respected.

This is the place where:

• people listen to each other, not just to the speakers on stage.
• people respect each other’s views and opinions, and
• celebrate their common cause.

The Aim of HaS

HaS aims to empower people with a disability with the opportunity to ‘have a say’ about issues that affect their lives and to celebrate ability and achievement.

People enjoy coming to HaS for a range of reasons:

• as keen advocates for other people with disability, they want to discuss issues and have a say.
• they find the whole environment empowering.
• to have a say, such as open microphone to present or perform.
• to meet other people with similar interests and/or concerns.
• some people are excited to tell their story or share their achievement(s).
• and then some people just want to have fun!