We at abilityNEWS extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the following people who’ve had their wonderful contributions to the disability sector recognised. We will be following up on their individual stories over the coming weeks.

Professor Christine Bigby - Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) 

Based in Melbourne, Victoria, Professor Bigby is a leading academic in the field of disability studies. She has been recognised for her distinguished service to people with intellectual disabilities through social welfare and inclusion research. Her work has significantly influenced the development of inclusive policies and practices in Australia, and the social inclusion of adults with intellectual disability. The focus of her work is policy issues, program effectiveness and front-line practice supporting quality of life outcomes for people with intellectual disability, especially the effectiveness of supported accommodation services, the nature and meaning of social inclusion for people with intellectual disability, and supported decision making for people with cognitive disability.

Member of the Order of Australia (AM)

Samantha Jayne Connor Hailing from New South Wales, Samantha Connor is a prominent disability rights advocate and former President of People with Disability Australia. She has been honoured for her significant service to people with disability, particularly through her advocacy work and efforts to improve accessibility and inclusion. nds.org.au

Carmel Helena Crouch Based in Queensland, Carmel Crouch has been recognised for her significant service to people with disability. Her contributions have been pivotal in advancing the rights and well-being of individuals with disabilities in the region.

Matthew Grant Formston From New South Wales, Matthew Formston is a world champion para-athlete and motivational speaker. He has been honoured for his significant service to people with disability and to para sports, inspiring many through his achievements and advocacy.

Penelope Margaret Gerstle Residing in New South Wales, Penelope Gerstle has been acknowledged for her significant service to human rights, community health, and to people with disability. Her work has encompassed various roles aimed at promoting equity and inclusion.

Adam David Johnston From New South Wales, Adam Johnston is a lawyer and disability advocate. He has been honoured for his significant service to community health, to the law, and to people living with disability, contributing to policy development and legal support services.

Joan McKenna Kerr Based in Western Australia, Joan McKenna Kerr has been recognised for her significant service to people with disability in leadership and advocacy roles. As the CEO of the Autism Association of Western Australia, she has played a crucial role in supporting individuals with autism and their families.

Professor Julian Norman Trollor Based in New South Wales, Professor Trollor is a clinician and academic specialising in intellectual disability health. He has been recognised for his significant service to people with disability, particularly through his leadership at the National Centre for Excellence in Intellectual Disability Health at UNSW. nds.org.au

Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM)

Jed Norman Altschwager From South Australia, Jed Altschwager is a para-rower who won gold at the Paris Paralympic Games 2024. He has been recognised for his service to sport, exemplifying determination and athletic excellence.

Jesse Bage Aungles Based in the Australian Capital Territory, Jesse Aungles is a Paralympic swimmer who secured a gold medal at the Paris Paralympic Games 2024. He has been recognised for his service to sport, representing Australia at the highest levels.

Nikki Louise Ayers From the Australian Capital Territory, Nikki Ayers is a para-rower who achieved gold at the Paris Paralympic Games 2024. She has been honoured for her service to sport, contributing to Australia's success in international competitions.

Lisa Ann Cox Residing in Queensland, Lisa Cox is a writer and advocate for people with disabilities. She has been recognised for her service to people with disability, using her platform to challenge stereotypes and promote positive representation.

Maureen Therese Davey Based in South Australia, Maureen Davey has dedicated decades to advocating for the deaf and hard of hearing community. Her efforts have improved communication access, social inclusion, and the recognition of deaf culture across the state and nationally.

Peter Granleese A former President of the Canberra Blind Society, Peter Granleese has been instrumental in improving accessibility, community engagement, and support programs for people with visual impairment. His work has contributed to increased independence and better quality of life for individuals who are blind, especially in regional and remote areas.

Lauren Parker Hailing from New South Wales, Lauren Parker is a para-triathlete who won a gold medal at the Paris Paralympic Games 2024. She has been honoured for her service to sport, demonstrating resilience and excellence in her athletic pursuits.

Martin Wren Based in New South Wales, Martin Wren is the CEO of Nova Employment and founder of the Focus on Ability Short Film Festival. He has been honoured for his service to people with disabilities, particularly in promoting employment opportunities and creative expression.

Other Recognition

Neale Daniher AO Originally from Victoria, Neale Daniher is a former AFL player and coach who was diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND) in 2013. He has been named the 2025 Australian of the Year for his advocacy in raising over $100 million for MND research through FightMND, inspiring many with his determination and leadership. news.com.au

Brother Thomas Oliver 'Olly' Pickett AM Based in Western Australia, Brother Olly Pickett co-founded Wheelchairs For Kids, a charity that has provided over 60,000 wheelchairs to children in developing countries. He has been named the 2025 Senior Australian of the Year for his humanitarian efforts and dedication to improving mobility for children worldwide.

If abilityNEWS has left anyone off this list, please get in touch with us at [email protected] or 04 10 278 827. We’d also love to hear stories about other people's contributions, whether officially recognised or not.