Riding for the Disabled Association is a voluntary, not for profit, organisation which provides riding instruction and other activities associated with riding and harness driving for people with disabilities. There are affiliated Riding for the Disabled Associations in all states and territories of Australia.

All riding coaches with RDA are qualified under the National Coaching Accreditation Scheme. They have skills in horsemastership, safety, medical knowledge, first aid, teaching, selection and training of horses. This is the minimum requirement and many are also highly qualified and experienced in other professions including special education, physiotherapy and other para-medical fields. Riders are accepted from all disability categories and are assessed prior to commencing riding so that a suitable, individual program can be developed for each rider.

RDA is closely associated with the Equestrian Federation of Australia, the Pony Club movement, the Australian Paralympic Committee, the Delta Society and other Riding for the Disabled Associations across the world through membership of the federation of Riding for the Disabled International.

Horses, staff and equipment are all provided by RDA or associated centres.

Some riders with more severe disabilities are assisted initially by up to two trained side walkers and a leader, however, many graduate to riding independently, and to competition level.Classes are varied and include the use of games, music, coordination exercises trail rides and competition.

There are strict safety standards in RDA and riders are required to wear Australian Standards Association Aus/Nz 38.38 approved helmets only and correct footwear, which is often provided by the Centre.Special equipment is occasionally used, however, RDA attempts to keep conditions as close to natural as possible, to encourage the riders to achieve a good position through use of their own body. Simple adaptations of basic equipment are often very helpful initially, or for specific types of disabilities.

SURVEY FIGURES
In 2003 RDA had:	132 Centres
	5077 Riders
	3575 Volunteers
	573 Coaches
	982 Horses