The transformative potential of student disability collectives in Australian universities

Student disability collectives (SDCs) are independent, student-led groups which offer representation, social networks, and resources to university students with disability. To complement quantitative scoping work regarding the nature and prevalence of SDCs in Australian universities, this study conducted six interviews to explore the potential of SDCs to shape the academic, social, and personal development of students with disability. Findings reveal the significant impact that SDCs can have on student experiences, potentially beyond those experienced through staff-led or university-administered programs. This work provides a grounding for future research in student-led collectivism as a student support and equity mechanism, with implications for further work relating to SDCs, student representation, and designing student supports and programs. Future studies should examine larger cohorts with different levels of engagement to deepen understanding of SDCs.