EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST: Varuna Disability and Inclusion Action Group
We are taking expressions of interest from Varuna alumni who are interested in joining our Disability and Inclusion Action Group.
Over the last four years, we have been lucky to work with Sarah-Jane Staszak, Kerri Shying and Ursula King on the development and implementation of our Disability and Inclusion Action Plan which has led to, among other things, the construction of a wheelchair accessible studio at Varuna, and large-scale programs for writers with disability, including residencies, online programs and community workshops. As these brilliant writers and advocates have reached the end of their term on the DIAG we are looking for new perspectives and guidance as we enter the next phase of our work in this space.
The role of the Varuna Disability Inclusion Advisory Group is:
to provide advice to Varuna on how to identify issues that are relevant to people with disability.
to provide advice on the content and execution of Varuna’s Disability Inclusion Action Plan.
to provide advice on targeted program development and practical protocols to ensure Varuna’sDIAP stated vision is fulfilled.
Members of the advisory group will commit to:
attending three scheduled Varuna Disability Inclusion Advisory Group meetings per year, via zoom
responding to emails regarding disability programs and policies as required during the year
responding to occasional telephone enquiries from staff regarding disability-related matters
championing the work of the DIAP and related programs
Members should:
be an active member of Australia’s literature and publishing industry, with experience in either writing, publishing, teaching, journalism or advocacy
identify as a person with disability
have some experience in policy, advocacy, activism or organising in the disability space, with knowledge of current legislation and creative landscape for writers with disability
have a connection to Varuna – as a member of our alumni, a facilitator, former staff or board, or a presenter at our festival
The Varuna Disability Inclusion Advisory Group will have 5 members, including a Varuna Board member, a Varuna Staff member and 3 members with a direct experience of disability.
Members are appointed initially for two years, with the option of re-appointment for a third year.
Members will receive an honorarium of $900 ex GST per year, to be paid at $300 three times per year (after each meeting).
Varuna alumni interested in joining the Varuna Disability Inclusion Advisory Group should email maeve@varuna.com.au by 15 August with an expression of interest.
The Disability Inclusion Advisory Group is not an executive body. It does not have the authority to expend money on behalf of Varuna; commit Varuna to any arrangement; consider any matter outside its specific reference; direct Varuna staff in the performance of their duties; or represent Varuna in any communication with the public or media.