27/02/2026
Providing equality and dignity by 21 February 2026 in Local News
Gippsland Disability Advocacy (GDA) Inc supports people with a disability to achieve freedom, respect equality and dignity. GDA drives change and empowers people living with a disability to live their life to the fullest.
Gippsland Disability Advocacy (GDA) Inc supports people with a disability to achieve freedom, respect equality and dignity. GDA drives change and empowers people living with a disability to live their life to the fullest.
Gippsland Disability Advocacy Inc (GDA) is a free, government-funded service that supports people with a disability to achieve freedom, respect, equality and dignity.
Executive Officer Leanne Wishart said people with a disability “have the right to live free from abuse and neglect, and at Gippsland Disability Advocacy we value each community member and listen to their concerns and needs.”
“Together we are working to support our clients so they can work towards independence, make the best choices, and do things for themselves,” Ms Wishart said.
While GDA works across Gippsland, people living with a disability in Bairnsdale and across East Gippsland can access local, free and confidential support.
The new Gippsland East disability advocate is Sharon Grumley, who is based in Bairnsdale. Sharon, along with all GDA advocates, can assist clients to ensure their voices are heard and their rights are respected.
GDA also has two part-time advocates who support clients with National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) Administrative Review Tribunal (ART) appeals.
Advocacy can take many forms. Some people need information to advocate for themselves, others require support to resolve a problem, and some work directly with a GDA advocate.
As a professional, free disability advocacy service, GDA drives change and empowers people living with a disability to enjoy a good life and access social justice and equal opportunities. This includes giving clients the chance to access information, take risks, speak out for their rights, and maintain friendships and relationships.
Priority is given to those who cannot articulate their needs without support and may be experiencing potential abuse, discrimination, neglect, denial or infringement of their rights, or social isolation.
