Key figures from the disability community were among 1192 recipients of Orders of Australia announced by the Governor General in the King’s Birthday Honours this week. Three current and former leaders of NDS member organisations were among the recipients of awards recognising their sustained contribution to the disability sector. 

Prominent among the awards was Jenny Macklin AC, the former Federal Minister for Disability Reform from 2011 to 2013, cited for overseeing the setting up of the NDIS. 

The Order of Australia is the nation's highest recognition for outstanding achievement and service. In the four levels of the award, people from all backgrounds who have made significant contributions to their fields or communities have been honoured and celebrated.  

An active member of NDS, Sue Becker AM received her Member of the Order of Australia for her long career in disability services. She retired last year after thirteen years as CEO at Lifestart, which supports children with disability and their families. A dedicated campaigner for the sector, Sue sat on numerous NDS state committees and advocacy groups, so we have experienced first-hand her wisdom and enthusiasm.   

Awarded an OAM, Jordan O’Reilly is the co-founder and CEO of the platform provider Hireup, an online disability support network that put participants in control of their supports. 

Also receiving a Medal of the Order of Australia, Dr Julie Edwards has been the CEO of Jesuit Services since 2004, delivering a host of community services, including programs to NDIS participants.   

We congratulate other recipients who have served people with disability and their communities: the late accessibility advocate Wendy Lovelace AM; the disability researcher and educator Prof. Patricia O'Brien AM; Chair of Disability NSW and disability sports advocate Jane Spring AM; Tracey Corbin-Matchet OAM, the CEO of  film school and production company Bus Stop Films; Andrew Fildes OAM, the founder and director of Shine that helps children with language learning delays and disabilities; and thalidomide survivor and advocate Lisa McManus OAM.  

Most people working in disability services know others who have given extraordinary and sustained service to their sector and community. Nominating them for an Order of Australia is an appropriate way to show appreciation for their service. Anyone can nominate someone else; the details are on the Governor General’s website.    

Celebrate the significant contribution of individual workers and teams who support people with disability to achieve their goals. Nominations close Monday 31 July 2023.

Nominate now!