At the two-day hearing, the Royal Commission considered the application and implementation of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disability (CRPD) in Australia. Particular consideration was given to whether and how the principles from the Convention are translated into Australian law, policy and practice.

The CRPD is a United Nations international human rights treaty intended to protect the rights of people with disability.

The Chair noted a divergence of opinion on whether Australia is fully compliant with its obligations under the CRPD. He also noted the need to consider practical factors – including resources, institutions, competing rights, and political process.