A national study by researchers from the University of Melbourne and Curtin and Macquarie Universities, involving 745 Australian students with disability and 166 school staff across government, Catholic and independent schools, found that 70% of students with disability have experienced restrictive practices and incidents minimising enrolment and inclusive participation in mainstream schools. The study refers to this unofficial but common discrimination as ‘gatekeeping” and asserts this occurs at a highly significant level across all jurisdictions and school types. Many families are advised that their child “will do better if segregated” and “will not keep up with others” in mainstream settings. Families also reported regular restrictions and suspensions disrupt family life and everyday activities. The researchers argue there is a chronic misunderstanding of the meaning of inclusion, with the current model operating on the basis of the student fitting the system, rather than the system adapting to ensure equitable access. Some schools were also noted as particularly inclusive, demonstrating the potential of positive leadership and mutual respect.
