The percentage of Australians with disability has surged in a few years. Here's why.

According to a recent survey conducted by the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the percentage of Australians with disabilities has significantly increased in recent years. In 2022, 21.4% of the population, or 5.5 million people, were living with a disability, compared to 17.7% in 2018. This rise was seen across genders, with a notable increase in the number of people reporting profound or severe disabilities. Factors contributing to this increase include heightened public awareness, better diagnostic criteria, an increase in long-term health conditions, and the aging population. The survey also revealed a significant increase in disability prevalence among children and young people, particularly due to an increase in autism spectrum disorder diagnoses. The growing prevalence of disability reflects a broader societal shift towards greater inclusion and reduced stigma. However, it is important to recognize that disability is a complex and diverse experience that cannot be neatly categorized. The survey's findings highlight the need for more inclusive and comprehensive approaches to defining and assessing disability in order to meet the needs of all individuals. [Extracted from the article]