Melissa Peacock

Thesis Name

Thesis Abstract

This research is important to artists with disability who live and work in regional areas, and to the policymakers who aim to support them. It can examine closely best practice (through ownership and agency) for artists with disability in regards to: policy and support systems, barriers and challenges regarding accessibility, inclusion, resources, representation and stigma. 

Why My Research is Important/Impacts

1 in 5 Australians are disabled and disabled people are actually more likely than non-disabled people to create art, volunteer within the arts and give money to the arts. However, artists with disability currently make up only 9% of our professional artist population and earn 42% less than artists without disability. Intersectionality can create layered barriers for people, particularly for the 45% of our First Nations community who are also disabled or living with a long-term health condition.