Who we are
Disability Rights Connect is an independent consultancy specialising in legal, policy and practice reform to advance the rights of people with disability.
We help bridge the gap between disability rights principles and real world change.
We work with governments, advocacy organisations, universities and service providers to develop and influence inclusive, rights-based reforms that are both principled and practical. We identify and use key policy levers to drive systemic change.
What Drives Us
Grounded in rights. Driven by lived experience.
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Emily Cukalevski founded Disability Rights Connect to address the disconnect between disability rights in principle and inclusion in practice.
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We believe that people with disability, including children, and their families and supporters, must be at the centre of reforming laws, policies and systems that shape their lives.
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Our work is grounded in a strong human rights-based approach, guided by the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
We combine principle with pragmatism — ensuring every project is co-designed, accessible and accountable.
Meet Emily
Emily Cukalevski is a disability rights lawyer and policy strategist. She brings a rare combination of legal expertise, reform experience, and family insight.
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Emily holds a Master of Laws in International Disability Law and Policy (First Class Honours), and has worked with the Disability Royal Commission, the Australian Human Rights Commission, and the UN Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
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Disability has always been part of Emily's life— first as a sibling, now as a parent to a spirited preschooler and a cheeky toddler who also happens to have a rare condition and disability.
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Through personal and professional experience, Emily is committed to designing reforms that are principled, pragmatic, and grounded in lived experience and expertise.
What we do
Turning evidence and experience into inclusive reform
We help you translate your goals into clear, persuasive, rights-based solutions.
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Strategic advice
We develop submissions, roadmaps and organisational strategies that turn human rights, lived experience and evidence into actionable solutions.
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Reform pathways
We partner with organisations to review laws, policies, and frameworks with rigour and clarity, aligning them with disability rights standards and mapping practical steps for reform and implementation.
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Research and translation
We bridge the gap between research and real-world change, turning academic research into practical reform proposals, resources and tools that improve outcomes for people with disability.
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Training and capability building
We deliver workshops, training and provide tailored support to build inclusive, rights-based practice across service delivery and adapt confidentially to changing legal and policy landscapes.
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Inclusive technology and AI
We provide expert input on ensuring respect for disability rights is embedded in emerging technologies, including AI-enabled tools and digital platforms.
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