After receiving ethics approval, the Review commenced its data gathering phase in late May 2021. The Commission invited written submissions and interview registrations from current and former Commonwealth parliamentarians, people who currently work or have previously worked for Commonwealth parliamentarians, and other workers in Commonwealth parliamentary workplaces, including interns and volunteers. In this reporting period (to 14 July), 345 people have participated in the Review. This includes 222 interviews and 124 written submissions, with a further 125 interview registrations, including 12 current or former Commonwealth parliamentarians scheduled in the forward year. Further, an online survey of current parliamentarians, people currently working for parliamentarians and other people working in Commonwealth parliamentary workplaces is planned for July 2021, along with targeted focus groups. The Commission has also issued several Requests for Information to relevant agencies. In July 2021, the Commission launched the progress update for the Review. The update outlined the work to date, an overview of participation, and the methodology. The data gathering process is expected to conclude in August 2021. To date, participants have commented about how safe, respected and valued they have felt through the process. Additionally, many participants have emphasised that they have appreciated the opportunity to share their experiences: ‘The one thing that really stood out for me in relation to the interview was how safe I felt to share my views.’ ‘I found the conversation very easy, and I felt that I was heard and that there was real interest in what my experiences and views were.’ ‘I would encourage people to participate as I found it a safe process, particularly being via teleconference, and the care shown by the interviewers, who also took the time to follow up on my wellbeing, was genuine.’ Inquiry participants The final report is expected to be provided to the Government in November 2021. Progress indicator 1.23 Instances of changed Federal and state government policy, practice and legislative change that reflect our advice. Embedding accessibility in housing through advocacy Increasing the availability of accessible housing for people with disability is one of Commissioner Gauntlett’s term goals as Disability Discrimination Commissioner. Improving housing accessibility should be pursued in two ways: by modifying and adapting existing homes, and ensuring that new homes are constructed to meet minimum accessibility requirements. Annual Report 2020–2021 Australian Human Rights Commission 39