Participating in arts- and cultural-sector governance in Australia: Experiences and views of people with disability

Abstract

This study sought the perceptions and experiences of people with disability relating to their potential or current involvement in the governance of arts and cultural organisations in Australia. A total of 32 people participated in an online survey, and results were analysed qualitatively and quantitatively. The findings revealed that those participants who had been involved in governance benefited from it in terms of self-esteem, participation in society and well-being. The results also indicated possible ways to encourage and enable more people with disability to become involved in governance roles, for example through the development of training and resources. This research represents a basis for future larger-scale studies relating to governance development for people with disability. Recommendations are made for future directions in both practice and research.