Increased focus on phasing out the segregated model of employment of persons with disabilities has ignited contentious debate about the ideal model to serve as a replacement. This article outlines the case for a federal legislative framework of social cooperatives which are managed and led by persons with disabilities. The Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities recognises social cooperatives as a preferable alternative to segregated employment and the development of cooperatives is an express obligation provided by the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. This article adopts a human rights approach to present the case for social cooperatives, comparing social cooperative legislation from various foreign jurisdictions to determine the most effective features that Australia should adopt.

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