Building Respectful Partnerships – Myth-Busting Collaboration | NDRP Evidence to Action (Session 4)

Building Respectful Partnerships – Myth-Busting Collaboration | NDRP Evidence to Action (Session 4)

Session 4 – Building Respectful Partnerships was recorded at the National Disability Research Partnership (NDRP) Evidence to Action event on 13 October 2025.

This session brings together advocacy leaders and researchers to challenge common myths about working together in disability research. Speakers share real stories about what respectful, inclusive collaboration looks like—and why it matters.
Facilitator: Associate Professor Linda Steele
Speakers:
• Megan Spindler-Smith – People with Disability Australia (PWDA)
• Jenny Karavolos – Australian Autism Alliance
• Jeremy Muir – Physical Disability Australia
• Martin Butcher – National Centre for Disability Advocacy (NCDA)
What this session covers
• Common myths about disability research partnerships
• What respectful engagement really means
• How to balance time, trust, and shared decision-making
• Practical lessons for building genuine partnerships
Resources mentioned
Explore the Evidence to Action Resource Pack, which includes:
• Tips for Working with Advocacy Organisations
• Approach Checklist
• MoU Template for Partnerships
• Co-design Guides for People with Intellectual Disability and AAC Users
📎 ndrp.org.au/resources