Empowering people with disability at the Having a Say Conference

This year, the VALiD Having a Say Conference (HaS) marked 25 years of bringing the disability community together to connect, celebrate and advocate for the issues that matter most.

Held in Geelong from 27–29 January, the conference once again created space for people with disability to be front and centre, sharing ideas, performing, volunteering and leading conversations as presenters and self-advocates.

Life Without Barriers was pleased to once again be a Silver Sponsor of the conference, including supporting the Family Empowerment Award. The award recognises someone who has stood alongside a family member, advocating for their rights and helping them access the support, community inclusion and opportunities needed to live life their way.

Nigel Phillips, Victorian Director of Disability Services, presented the award, congratulating the recipient for her ongoing commitment and advocacy in her daughter's life.

"This relationship is an example of families supporting their loved ones to be as independent as possible, achieve and enjoy the things we all want in life, including purposeful employment," said Nigel.

Image: Nigel Phillips standing on stage behind a podium, presenting the Family Empowerment Award at the Having a Say Conference.

Guided by the theme 'Strengthening our voices for a better future!', the conference put people with disability at the centre, giving them the space to share their perspectives, lead conversations, and advocate for the change they want to see in their lives and communities.

Throughout the event, attendees got hands-on with workshops, presentations, performances, 'Come & Try' activities from painting and tie-dyeing to wood crafting and even Harley Davidson bike rides, and explored the 'Our Choice Expo'. These experiences brought the conference theme to life in fun, interactive, and meaningful ways.

Presentations covered everything from public speaking and advocacy to navigating life changes, employment, and finding the right home to suit individual needs. The workshops gave participants the chance to explore friendships, relationships and intimacy, and building confidence and practical skills to speak up in decisions that affect them.

Image: Doreen sitting at the Life Without Barriers stall and smiling at the camera at the Having a Say Conference.

Across the three days of the conference, the Life Without Barriers booth was a hub of activity. Our friendly team were on hand to answer questions about services, share merchandise, and offer fresh fruit, which proved a big hit with attendees.

The team also had the opportunity to attend some of the incredible sessions facilitated by people with intellectual disability, for people with intellectual disability.

"It was a very informative session on building self-confidence and developing the ability to speak confidently in front of others," shared Melissa Smith, Operations Manager.

Image: Adrian Chapman and Melissa Smith sitting at the Life Without Barriers stall and smiling at the camera at the Having a Say Conference.

This year’s HaS Got Talent and Art competitions were once again crowd favourites, bringing lots of energy and applause as incredible talent and creativity were showcased.

The Dinner Disco, 'Let’s Party & Sparkle', celebrated the 25-year Silver Anniversary of Having a Say. Held at the Croatian Community Centre, the event was a highlight for attendees, filled with laughter, dancing, and connection as they dressed up, mingled with friends old and new, and grooved to the music of Un-Limited.

Image: Sue and Doreen wearing blue bucket hats and smiling at the camera at the Having a Say Conference.

Sue and Doreen, who choose Life Without Barriers’ Supported Independent Living Services (SIL), travelled from Greensborough to Geelong for the conference with the support of Sibu, Disability Support Officer. They stayed for three nights, spending time at the conference catching up with friends and making new connections.

"I liked meeting new people there. I did some painting," Sue shared.

When asked about her favourite part of the conference, Sue didn’t hesitate, the disco was the highlight of her trip.

Image: Sue holding up her painting created during the Come & Try activity.

Doreen shared that she enjoyed the 'Come & Try' activities.

"I liked horse ride, I liked bike ride. I did make up," said Doreen.

She also challenged herself by taking part in a public speaking workshop and learning some new skills.

"Talking in mic, Doreen is brave," she said.

After three action-packed days of workshops, activities and performances, the conference had clearly left a lasting impression.

"I like it, I want to go back next year," said Doreen.

"I can’t wait to go back next year. I loved it," shared Sue.

Image: Doreen sitting in the side care of a Harley Davidson, taking part in a bike ride.

Nicole Hassall, Executive Officer at Life Without Barriers, said that the essence and strength of the conference is grounded in peoples lived experience.

"The opportunities the conference provides are incredibly valuable," said Nicole.

"With presentations that create a space for people with disability to be heard and opportunities for people to facilitate workshops that showcase how people can speak for themselves in a variety of circumstances."

Image: Nicole Hassall sits behind the Life Without Barriers stall at the Having a Say Conference.