FAQ Sheet 17:
What is a Disability Liaison Officer?
How can a Disability Liaison Officer help me get ready for university?
All universities have staff who are specifically responsible for advising on and arranging disability services for students with disability. These staff may have additional responsibilities and are known by various titles including disability advisers, disability consultants, disability coordinators, equity officers or case managers. In this resource we refer to these staff as 'Disability Liaison Officers' (DLOs).
- The DLO is the key person for advising you about the services and facilities available at the university and putting you in contact with other university staff and services about your preparations for university. The DLO is also the person who will assist you with your disability support arrangements when you enter the university.
- Your discussions with the DLO are confidential, unless you specifically give permission for them to disclose your individual circumstances to others.
You can ask DLOs about:
- Facilities which are available and their location on the campus
- What documentation will be required for alternative assessments, including exam provisions
- Any issues you should consider before you nominate your course preferences
- Academic/teaching staff who may be able to assist you
- Assistance during enrolment (if you may need it)
- A personal orientation to help you to get to know the campus before you start
- General orientation programs available, e.g. academic study skills, social clubs, campus tours, and opportunities to meet other students and
- Annual Tertiary Taste programs (where prospective students get to try a day at university) for students with disability.
Tips for contact with DLOs
- When you find out who the DLO is, make a note of their name and contact details (including phone number and email address). Keep a record of the DLOs you have had contact with as you may need to follow up with them later on.
- The earlier you disclose to the DLO the better your chances of making the best possible support arrangements. DLOs are happy to meet with prospective students before their acceptance into their university.
- Don't wait until you have struck problems at university to contact the DLO! This only makes it more difficult to get the right arrangements in place.
- If you plan to meet the DLO, ring ahead. Some universities require you to make an appointment if you want to meet the DLO in person.