Latest News | Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability

Category Disability Show all

Inclusive Futures: Welcoming Dr. Lisa Stafford, ARC Future Fellow

Share Inclusive Futures: Welcoming Dr. Lisa Stafford, ARC Future Fellow on Facebook Share Inclusive Futures: Welcoming Dr. Lisa Stafford, ARC Future Fellow on Twitter Share Inclusive Futures: Welcoming Dr. Lisa Stafford, ARC Future Fellow on Linkedin Email Inclusive Futures: Welcoming Dr. Lisa Stafford, ARC Future Fellow link
Dr. Lisa Stafford, ARC Future Fellow
Griffith University researchers have secured over $8.5 million in funding for eight out of 22 projects announced in the latest Australian Research Council (ARC) Future Fellowship round. With eight fellowships granted, totalling $8,587,849, Griffith achieved an 36.4% success rate—one of the highest in the country.

Among these outstanding researchers, we’re excited to welcome Dr. Lisa Stafford to the Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability team. Dr. Stafford has been awarded $1,052,822 for her project, "Transport Equity for All".
This project builds on Lisa’s existing body of work and aims to enhance how transport equity is understood, included, and applied in transport planning. Through a collaborative approach with people with disability and transport planners, the project will co-design a practice framework and tools to guide more inclusive decision-making. By co-creating this knowledge and developing practical methods, the project seeks to significantly advance transport equity for people with disability across Australia.
About Dr. Lisa Stafford
Lisa is passionate about inclusive sustainable communities and transport equity. With over 25 years of experience as a researcher, educator, and planner across government, non-government, and university sectors, Lisa continues to lead change at the intersection of disability participation, urban planning and transport. Her work also champions inclusive participatory and co-creation methods to ensure the ‘voices’ of all people, particularly children and people with complex communication needs are heard in research and public planning.
Lisa has lead research, practice and strategic transformation in inclusive community planning and mobility/transport equity to improve social-economic participation of people with disabilities. Her recent work has included:
- 2020-2023 - Planning Inclusive Communities research project produced with 138 participants in total the Makings of Inclusive Communities – the Five Core Elements and Change Needed Framework for Planning Inclusively as well as co-writing a discussion paper with a community of practice of urban planners on Planning for Disability Equity and Inclusion. https://www.planninginclusivecommunities.com/the-makings
  https://www.planninginclusivecommunities.com/planning-to-enact-change
- 2022 Co-research Trips Not Made research project in Lutruwita/Tasmania for Anglicare Tasmania with Young Adults with disabilities producing report with outline of practical and strategic change needed actions to improve transport equity. https://www.anglicare-tas.org.au/trips-not-made/
- 2022 NZ project lead by MRCagney Dr Doran producing report – 690 transport experiences of disabled people in Aotearoa New Zealand for the Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency to shape NZ Government’s response to transport inequality; https://www.nzta.govt.nz/resources/research/reports/690
- Contribute to important Discussion Papers - 2022 Transport Australia’s Universal Design for Transport Discussion Paper https://www.engineersaustralia.org.au/sites/default/files/2022-04/Universal-Design-for-Transport-TAs-discussion-paper-20220421.pdf and 2023 Engineer’s Australia Future of Transport Discussion paper https://www.engineersaustralia.org.au/sites/default/files/2023-01/future-transport-discussion-paper-jan-2023.pdf
- 2023 co-facilitated with social deck roundtables for people with disabilities and transport industry (government and providers) on the Disability
  Standards for Accessible Transport (DSAPT) review 2023 for Australian Government;
- 2023 - Keynote speaker Inclusive Street Design for inclusive active transport for Australian Walking and Cycling Conference
- 2024 – Deputy Chair of Transport 2024 Conference for Transport Australia’s Society, Engineers Australia with inclusive planning being one of the key themes.
Lisa brings valuable insights from her lived experience as a woman with disability. Lisa lives with multiple autoimmune diseases and uses a walking stick and power wheelchair for daily mobility. Additionally, her leadership experience across various boards and committees continues to be instrumental in advancing inclusive communities and cities, systems, transport, and disability rights for all Australians. Currently Lisa serves as an Australian Human Rights Commission Includeability Ambassador and recent appointment as Chair of Disability-Informed Ethical Oversight Panel for National Disability Data Asset. Lisa is also a member of the Transport Australia Society (TAs), Disability Leadership Institute, and the Planning Institute of Australia (MPIA).
She will join us in 2025 to begin the next chapter of her important work on transport equity.
Photo credit: Justin Cooper Photography, Transport Conference 2024.

How Lisa’s project will benefit Australians
Better ways of planning transport to ensure its fair and accessible for all Australians is a significant need.
Transport is essential to everyday life yet remains one of the most reported forms of discrimination experienced by Australian with disabilities.
Every Australian will have an experience of disability in their lifetime, and transport equity is a way of ensuring access needs are met for the most disadvantage to ensure same level of services as everyone.
Problems persist due to little knowledge and practice know how, and gaps in existing national standards. Without fit-for-purpose knowledge to guide planners, applying equity in transport will remain makeshift.
This research will work directly with Australian transport planners and people with disabilities to co-create new knowledge and practice tools, and will be freely available on public website, public information hubs, professional bodies magazines, and through free professional seminars. Applying the new knowledge will inform better planning of transport for everyone, removal of barriers to social-economic participation, and creating fairer access and increased opportunities to work, education, health, recreation, and family/friends critical to everyday life.
An inclusive fit-for-purpose transport systems will reduce spending on expensive disability transport support for some due to improved access to public and active transport, as well as lowering emissions with mode shift and increase usage.
Transport Equity for All – Project Summary
Read more: https://dataportal.arc.gov.au/NCGP/Web/Grant/Grant/FT240100262

More information
inclusivefutures@griffith.edu.au
lisa.stafford@griffith.edu.au
Disability Inclusion Author Talk Series: Dr Sarah Brooker

Share Disability Inclusion Author Talk Series: Dr Sarah Brooker on Facebook Share Disability Inclusion Author Talk Series: Dr Sarah Brooker on Twitter Share Disability Inclusion Author Talk Series: Dr Sarah Brooker on Linkedin Email Disability Inclusion Author Talk Series: Dr Sarah Brooker link

INCLUSIVE FUTURES BOOK CLUB
A Conversation with Dr Sarah Brooker - Neuroscientist, teacher and author of My Lucky Stroke.

Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability invites you to attend our Author Talk with esteemed guest Dr Sarah Brooker (author of My Lucky Stroke), hosted by Dr Maretta Mann.
In 2002 Sarah Brooker was only 20 years old and on the brink of realising her dreams. She had graduated from Monash University and was about to become a neuroscientist. Then, a series of catastrophic events – a stroke, a car accident, a coma – and she was robbed of that life forever.
I woke up in her place. I was a broken body, with little memory of who I had been, and little understanding of the world I was in. I have spent the past 22 years trying to put my life back together. In that time, I have had to learn to walk, talk, and eat again. That was easy.
I have completed several University degrees, including returning to Neuroscience to complete my PhD. That was easy too. What has been difficult has been learning and re-learning my place in the world, and what it means to live with an acquired brain injury.
I have been a rehabilitation counsellor, a radio DJ, a student support officer and have finally found my place as a teacher. I am Dr Sarah Brooker and I have come along today to share the story of my recovery with you.
Find out more about Dr Sarah Brooker and her book “My Lucky Stroke” here.

EVENT DETAILS
Tuesday, 13 August 2024
12 noon–1 pm AEST | 11.30 am–12.30 pm ACST
This online event will be hosted on Microsoft Teams. A meeting link will be shared with you upon registration.
RSVP
Please register your attendance before Thursday, 9 August here or via the QR code.
MORE INFORMATION
inclusivefutures@griffith.edu.au
THIS WILL BE AN ACCESSIBLE EVENT WITH LIVE CAPTIONS AND A TRANSCRIPT AVAILABLE POST EVENT.
Disability Reform Summit: Moving from recommendations to evidence-based solutions

Share Disability Reform Summit: Moving from recommendations to evidence-based solutions on Facebook Share Disability Reform Summit: Moving from recommendations to evidence-based solutions on Twitter Share Disability Reform Summit: Moving from recommendations to evidence-based solutions on Linkedin Email Disability Reform Summit: Moving from recommendations to evidence-based solutions link
The Disability Reform Summit was hosted by the Dignity Project and funded by an Engaging Science Grant from the Department of Environment and Science.
The Summit brought together a diverse group of citizen scientists, Queensland disability researchers and academics, and key disability persons and advocacy organisations for a collaborative agenda-setting workshop.
The workshop sought to co-create priorities for research based on the NDIS Review recommendations, Disability Royal Commission recommendations, and the Voice of Queenslanders with Disability report recommendations, while moving towards evidence-based solutions that will directly contribute to government and service responses.
Twenty-one attendees worked collaboratively over a 4-hour workshop and identified key priorities, much of which was focused on improving disability data collection, better implementation of consistent disability flags across mainstream services, and increasing sustainable long-term partnerships and funding.
Workshop attendees wanted to prioritise projects that focus on building evidence for knowledge and evidence gaps, although 50% of participants also wanted to examine existing interventions to evaluate and improve them.
L-R: Dr Kelsey Chapman; Dr Talitha Kingsmill and Sharon White; and Nerine Williams.
TOPICS AND INSIGHTS
Health and Wellbeing:
- Promoting health consumerism principles and access for all.
- Shifting from reactive to pre-emptive health strategies.
- Addressing disparities in health equity and access.
- Campaigns like 'Hear Me, See Me, Understand Me' and involving lived experiences in decisions.
- Potential research includes integrating health awareness into education and enhancing professional understanding of diverse needs.
Employment and Financial Security:
- Psychological safety and accommodations in the workplace.
- Inclusive recruitment, onboarding, and raising employment expectations.
- Examining current inclusive policies and staff training in unconscious bias.
- Potential research includes building inclusive research teams and understanding confidence in disability-related conversations.
Top: Panelists Prof. Elizabeth Kendall AM, Dr Talitha Kingsmill, Sharon White and Prof. David Trembath. Bottom: Dr Kelsey Chapman leads the summit workshop activities. Inclusive Education and Learning:
- Need for inclusive school rules and evolving educational practices.
- Redesigning assessment methods and promoting reasonable adjustments.
- Potential research focuses on leadership attitudes and diverse perspectives in education, reassessing student success metrics.
Inclusive and Accessible Communities:
- Evaluating compliance vs. actual accessibility and inclusion.
- Measuring community inclusion and the impact of co-design.
- Opportunities like Brisbane 2032 for updating infrastructure and promoting universal accessibility.
Disability Data:
- Enhancing researcher capability and implementing consistent disability data flags.
- Prioritising projects to build evidence and evaluate existing interventions.
- Balancing academic interest with immediate social needs through co-design and sustainable partnerships.
Top L-R: Sharon White and Prof. David Trembath; Julia Robertson.
Bottom L-R: Dr Eloise Hummell and Nerine Williams; Geoff Trappett; Dr Maretta Mann. We extend our gratitude to the Queensland Government Department of Environment and Science for their support of this research. Our deepest thanks also go to Dr. Kelsey Chapman, Lead Researcher, and the Griffith University's Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability team, including Rebekah Barker, Joe-Anne Kek-Pamenter, Dr. Maretta Mann, and Professor Elizabeth Kendall AM, for their invaluable assistance in organising this event. Additionally, we appreciate the continuous dedication and support of our Summit participants and the wider Dignity Project team.
Special thanks to Eric Tram, our videographer, illustrators Holly Bryant & Cate Withers and the team at Griffith University Live Worm (Libbi Reed, Jacqui Hancox and Sharon Searle) for their engaging Sketch Notes that beautifully captured the topics and insights of the Summit.
Top L-R: Prof David Trembath; Dr Kelsey Chapman; Dr Eloise Hummell.
Bottom L-R: Summit Participants; Prof. Elizabeth Kendall AM.
Top L-R: Dr Talitha Kingsmill and Karin Swift.
Bottom: Dr Maretta Mann and Dr Kelsey Chapman lead discussion amongst their group.

Acknowledgement

The Disability Reform Summit was funded by an Engaging Science Grant from the Queensland Department of Environment and Science and the Office of the Chief Scientist.

Watch the Disability Reform Summit highlights on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Wz2UJ08xOP0?si=xIu1T75BSAVJTm58 (Videographer: Eric Tram).

Join us in moving from recommendations to real change!

More information: Dr Kelsey Chapman, Research Fellow and Citizen Science Manager k.chapman@griffith.edu.au
SKETCH NOTES
For an accessible / alternate format of our sketch notes, please email inclusivefutures@griffith.edu.au
Queensland Disability Research Network (QDRN) Disability Research Strategy and Co-Design Workshop Series

Share Queensland Disability Research Network (QDRN) Disability Research Strategy and Co-Design Workshop Series on Facebook Share Queensland Disability Research Network (QDRN) Disability Research Strategy and Co-Design Workshop Series on Twitter Share Queensland Disability Research Network (QDRN) Disability Research Strategy and Co-Design Workshop Series on Linkedin Email Queensland Disability Research Network (QDRN) Disability Research Strategy and Co-Design Workshop Series link

Left to right: Attendees of the Brisbane Workshop and Dr. Talitha Kingsmill.

The Queensland Disability Research Network (QDRN) recently hosted the Disability Research Strategy Engagement and Co-Design Workshop Series, bringing together individuals with disability, citizen scientists, researchers, government agencies, and key disability advocacy organisations across Queensland. These invitation-only, fully accessible workshops aimed to collaboratively shape the research agenda for the Department of Child Safety, Seniors and Disability Services’ Disability Research Strategy 2025-2030.

Facilitated by Dr. Talitha Kingsmill (GU), Professor Kate Ames (CQU), Dr. Corey Bloomfield (CQU), and Professor Charlotte Brownlow (USQ), the workshops were held both in-person at Brisbane and Toowoomba, and online. The focus was on identifying research priorities and projects to support Queensland’s Disability Plan, the Disability Royal Commission, NDIS Review recommendations, Elevate 2042 Legacy Strategy, and the Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Key stakeholders gathered at Griffith University’s Southbank campus, University of Southern Queensland’s Toowoomba campus and online to discuss a wide range of topics, including employment and financial security, safety rights and justice, education and learning, community attitudes, and departmental regulatory functions. The discussions generated valuable insights and recommendations, which will inform policy and decision-making for the upcoming Disability Research Strategy.
The engagement and co-design workshops are an ongoing effort, with multiple sessions held across Queensland and online. These workshops are crucial for ensuring that diverse voices contribute to shaping the research priorities that will guide future policies. The QDRN invites interested parties to connect and participate in this important work.
We extend our sincere gratitude to the Queensland Government Department of Child Safety, Seniors and Disability Services for their unwavering support of this research. We also wish to thank Griffith University's Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability team members, Rebekah Barker, Joe-Anne Kek-Pamenter, Dr Kelsey Chapman, Dr Maretta Mann and Professor Elizabeth Kendall AM, for their invaluable assistance in organising these events, and the wider QDRN team for their continuous dedication and support.

For more information or to become involved, please contact:
Dr. Talitha Kingsmill, Research Fellow and QDRN Lead
Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability, Griffith University
Email: qdrn@griffith.edu.au

Dr Talitha Kingsmill addresses the Brisbane workshop.
Honoring Excellence: Prof. Elizabeth Kendall Appointed Member of the Order of Australia in 2024 King's Birthday Honours

Share Honoring Excellence: Prof. Elizabeth Kendall Appointed Member of the Order of Australia in 2024 King's Birthday Honours on Facebook Share Honoring Excellence: Prof. Elizabeth Kendall Appointed Member of the Order of Australia in 2024 King's Birthday Honours on Twitter Share Honoring Excellence: Prof. Elizabeth Kendall Appointed Member of the Order of Australia in 2024 King's Birthday Honours on Linkedin Email Honoring Excellence: Prof. Elizabeth Kendall Appointed Member of the Order of Australia in 2024 King's Birthday Honours link

Congratulations to our Director, Professor Elizabeth Kendall, on being appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the King’s Birthday 2024 Honours List.
Professor Kendall has dedicated her life, professionally and personally, to improving the lives of people with disability, for more than 40 years. She is a pioneer of disability and rehabilitation research, making extensive seminal contributions in peer reviewed journals, books, and industry reports.
As the Foundation Director of The Hopkins Centre (a collaborative between Griffith University, Metro South Healthand the Motor Accident Insurance Commission), Elizabeth was instrumental in embedding consumer engagement and practitioner capacity, resulting in impactful research designed and conducted in collaboration with end users. Under Professor Kendall’s leadership, research has been translated into sustainable components of the service system for people with disability.
Under Professor Kendall’s leadership of Griffith University’s Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability, Professor Kendall is leading innovative and interdisciplinary approaches to creating inclusive places for people with disability to live, work and play. The Inclusive Futures Hub, an online, accessible consumer engagement platform, has grown to over 700 members, who have contributed to state and national policy reforms for people with disability.
Elizabeth is a tireless advocate and champion for people with disability. She has also mentored many research students and staff to lead successful careers of their own.
We are so proud of Elizabeth and delighted to see her receive this deserving recognition.
Read more in the Griffith News: https://news.griffith.edu.au/2024/06/10/leading-disability-advocate-honoured-in-kings-birthday-list/
Visit the Inclusive Futures Website: https://www.griffith.edu.au/research/inclusive-futures-reimagining-disability
Register to become a member: https://inclusivefutures.griffith.edu.au/
Unlocking Inclusive Futures Through Diverse Voices

Share Unlocking Inclusive Futures Through Diverse Voices on Facebook Share Unlocking Inclusive Futures Through Diverse Voices on Twitter Share Unlocking Inclusive Futures Through Diverse Voices on Linkedin Email Unlocking Inclusive Futures Through Diverse Voices link

Unlocking Inclusive Futures through Diverse Voices
Embrace the Power of Inclusivity
In a world striving for progress, true innovation comes from hearing and embracing diversity in all its forms.
We proudly present Inclusive Voices, a pioneering force driving forward inclusive thinking in community, in business and in government.
Our vibrant community of over 500 people with lived experience of disability, supported by decades of cutting-edge disability research, makes us the premier destination for corporations and governments seeking transformative disability-centric change.
Dr Vanesa Bochkezanian (CQU), Dwayne Fernandes, Dr Maretta Mann (Griffith University), and Timothy Lachlan address the audience at the Inclusivity In Play Pitch, 2022.
Why Inclusive Voices?

The Numbers Don't Lie
With over 4 million Australians living with disability, representing 18% of our population, and even more people living with chronic disabling conditions, the potential for meaningful engagement and collaboration is vast.
Yet, the knowledge of people with disability remains vastly untapped by industry, offering us huge possibilities for creativity, and unparalleled insights waiting to be unlocked.
Our Unique Approach
We bring together a dynamic alliance:
People with Disability: Our thriving community of 500+ individuals, each with a unique journey and invaluable perspective on disability.
Researchers, Designers, and Educators: Experts who understand the transformative power of collaboration and empathy.
Industry and Government Bodies: Partners dedicated to fostering a more inclusive society through meaningful action.
What We Offer
Personalised Consultations: Gain invaluable insights through one-on-one sessions with people with lived experiences or immersive focus groups, where our community members offer first-hand perspectives and innovative solutions.
Captivating Keynotes and Workshops: Let our Inclusive Voices speaking bureau inspire and educate with their compelling stories, experiences of using your products and services, shedding light on the true essence of disability and its implications for your organisation.
Product and Service Enhancement and Testings: Collaborate with our experts to refine your offerings, ensuring they meet the diverse needs of all individuals and drive meaningful impact.
Research Collaborations: Dive into, or commission, ground-breaking studies conducted by our researchers, bridging theory and practice to shape a more inclusive future for all.
Inclusivity in Play Pitch, 2022 Top L to R: Kathleen O'Kelly-Kennedy and Dr Kerry Hall; Dwayne Fernandes an Sara Shams
Bottom L to R: Timothy Lachlan; Timothy Lachlan, Dr Maretta Mann, Dwayne Fernandes and Dr Vanesa Bochkezanian.

Why Choose Inclusive Voices?
Unprecedented Access: We've streamlined the process, providing seamless access to our vibrant and unique community.
A Fresh Perspective: Shift your paradigm and see disability not as a limitation, but as a source of boundless creativity and resilience, inspiring innovative solutions.
Transformative Impact: By embracing inclusivity, you'll not only meet compliance standards but also unlock new avenues for innovation and growth, benefiting all of society.

A montage of images of Inclusive Futures events: From Left to Right - Madi de Rozario OAM and Daniel Clarke OAM at the Inclusivity In Play Pitch; Julia Robertson, Matt Levy OAM and Mark Berridge at the Inclusive Futures Book Club Author Talk; Audience at the Inclusivity in Play Pitch; Geoff Trappett; Geoff Trappett and Karin Swift at the Disability Reform Summit 2024.
Join Us

As the leading force in Australian disability research, Griffith University is committed to and backs Inclusive Voices.
Visit Griffith Inclusive Futures to learn more about ground-breaking disability research. Join us on a journey where inclusion isn't just a buzzword—it's a way of life.
Together, let's build a future where everyone thrives by harnessing the power of each person’s unique abilities.
Unlock Inclusive Futures. Transform Lives.

Contact Us
Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability
Email: inclusivefutures@griffith.edu.au
Website: https://www.griffith.edu.au/research/inclusive-futures-reimagining-disability
Inclusive Futures Hub: https://inclusivefutures.griffith.edu.au
Follow Us
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/inclusive-futures-reimagining-disability
Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/gu_incl_futures
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChdzCWo_9R8XHDadRRVPnkw
Become an Inclusive Futures Member
https://shorturl.at/huDHQ
Disability Inclusion Author Talk Series Mary Li and Sophie – Navigating Hearing Loss

Share Disability Inclusion Author Talk Series Mary Li and Sophie – Navigating Hearing Loss on Facebook Share Disability Inclusion Author Talk Series Mary Li and Sophie – Navigating Hearing Loss on Twitter Share Disability Inclusion Author Talk Series Mary Li and Sophie – Navigating Hearing Loss on Linkedin Email Disability Inclusion Author Talk Series Mary Li and Sophie – Navigating Hearing Loss link

Mary Li together with Inclusive Futures Book Club and Author Talk host Dr. Maretta Mann
On Wednesday, April 3, 2024, the Inclusive Futures Book Club hosted author Mary Li for an insightful conversation with Dr. Maretta Mann. The discussion delved into Mary’s remarkable dancing career, her marriage to Li Cunxin AO, and the challenges faced by her daughter, Sophie, who was diagnosed as profoundly deaf at 17 months. They explored career decisions, the absence of role models, and the complexities of education and social interactions. Mary and Sophie’s journey, navigating both the hearing and deaf worlds, provided a powerful narrative of resilience and adaptation.
Author Mary Li and Inclusive Futures Author Talk host Dr. Maretta Mann
An Unlikely Beginning
Mary Li’s memoir traces her journey from Rockhampton, Australia, where she grew up as Mary McKendry—one of eight children. Despite an unconventional start, Mary’s innate musicality drew her to ballet. She recalls, “The minute I walked into the studio at eight years old, and I could hear the music, I was lifted to another world.” Her teacher recognised her potential, leading to an invitation to the Royal Ballet School in London at age 16.

Mary Li and her dance partner and husband Li Cunxin OAM dance Swan Lake
Mary’s Dancing Career
Mary joined the London Festival Ballet (now the English National Ballet) in 1977. As she ascended the ranks, she danced principal roles in classical ballets, collaborated with renowned choreographers, and performed on international stages. One of many highlights was visiting China in the early 1980s—a ground-breaking experience.
A Shocking Diagnosis
In 1989, Mary Li and her husband, Li Cunxin AO, welcomed their daughter, Sophie. Newborn hearing screening wasn’t routine then, but after noticing Sophie’s lack of reaction to a popping balloon, they booked a hearing test. The diagnosis—profound deafness—shocked them both. Mary immediately thought of Helen Keller’s experience. Despite advancements, the shock remains significant for parents. Mary made an early decision: she would give up her dancing career to ensure Sophie had equal opportunities.
Finding a Way for Sophie
Mary described that at the time (1990s) there was no internet, and no role models in her life that would help parents to support their deaf children. Sign language was not really presented as a viable option. She fortunately met one wonderful speech therapist who also had a child with disability. “She was the one that looked at me in the room and said “you know, you can help her”… she was amazing.” But healthcare and support weren’t coordinated, and parents had to find their own way.
Challenging Social Situations
In social situations, Mary faced challenges related to her daughter Sophie’s hearing loss. At a Mother’s Group, comparing Sophie’s speech development with other children highlighted the differences. Sophie missed social conversations without Mary as her interpreter. Birthday celebrations were exhausting, but a thoughtful friend organised a small party for Sophie. As Sophie entered her teenage years, group situations became even more difficult—never being privy to secrets and missing out on conversations affected her confidence profoundly.
Mother as Teacher
Mary took every opportunity to teach Sophie to speak. “Even in the bath tub I put on her hearing aids because she was still… Instead of making individual lessons I just talked all day about everything that was around me.” She spoke about a revelation when Sophie was about four years old that she would need to teach Sophie how to think, because this is very difficult to do without the language. This is when she decided to investigate a cochlear implant.
Navigating School and University
Mary shared the difficulty in finding a good school for Sophie. She tried out a specialist school for deaf children, and mainstream schools (in both Australia and the USA). She wanted Sophie to have a good education but also for Sophie to experience social situations. None of the school experiences were perfect. Later Sophie went to university, and that presented challenges as well. Even if there were Auslan (Australian Sign Language) interpreters, sometimes they wouldn’t be available for particular classes.
Sophie and Dancing
Mary spoke about the benefits that Sophie has had from doing dancing. First, it was a new opportunity, and this extended Sophie’s opportunity to learn new words from being immersed in different situations. She said that when you have a hearing-impaired child you worry about background noise, so basketball is out. But in a ballet studio the children have to be quiet and listen to the teacher. So, in a way Sophie was having speech therapy without knowing it. Interestingly, she was also very expressive and musical. She ended up doing a year 12 dance, and she was one of the top 5% in the state. She was particularly good at tap dancing, and Mary said this is a great form of dance for Deaf children.
Cochlear Implants: A Dual Perspective
Mary acknowledges that cochlear implants have significantly transformed Sophie’s life, but they come with limitations. Sophie now communicates using Auslan and benefits from the implants, straddling both the hearing and deaf worlds. However, Sophie’s first implant failed due to a software glitch, leading to a second surgery after 26 years.
Sophie’s reality remains unchanged—she goes to bed deaf and wakes up the same way. Yet, the implant acts as a powerful tool, akin to putting on glasses.
Nowadays, in her mentoring role, Sophie emphasises confidence-building. Many individuals with implants or hearing loss struggle with confidence, but Sophie guides them toward reclaiming it. Whether in the workforce or daily life, she empowers others to overcome barriers and find their voice.
Where is Sophie Now?
Mary told us a bit about what Sophie has been doing since her book was published in 2020. Amongst many exciting developments, Sophie has invented a subscription-based global online signing dictionary called Sign How, as well as a signing app.
Resources:
· To read the full story, purchase Mary’s Last Dance by Mary Li online.
· Learn about Sophie’s Sign How dictionary.

This condensed account was written by Dr Maretta Mann, Strategic Development Manager, and host of the Book Club at Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability. Dr Maretta Mann and Mary Li
Voice of Queenslanders with Disability Survey - Queenslanders with Disability Network

Share Voice of Queenslanders with Disability Survey - Queenslanders with Disability Network on Facebook Share Voice of Queenslanders with Disability Survey - Queenslanders with Disability Network on Twitter Share Voice of Queenslanders with Disability Survey - Queenslanders with Disability Network on Linkedin Email Voice of Queenslanders with Disability Survey - Queenslanders with Disability Network link

Author: Monique Mita
Queenslanders with disability are encouraged to have their say on what it’s like to live in the sunshine state with the release of the 2024 Voice of Queenslanders with Disability survey.

“The 2023 survey had great impact on policy and planning in Queensland,” said Chief Investigator and Research Fellow with Inclusive Futures and the Hopkins Centre, Kelsey Chapman.

“The 2024 Voice of Queenslanders survey will give us keen insight into how the lives of Queenslanders with disability, their families and the people who support them have changed since last year.”

Griffith University Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability have been working with Queenslanders with Disability Network (QDN) to collect the information and deliver the annual survey results.

“We’re looking forward to generating and collecting more stories and partnering with the Queensland Government and QDN to build a more inclusive state for people with disability,” she said.

"The 2023 was a landmark in Australian disability policy and reform, and we are looking forward to understanding how this impacted the lives of Queenslanders with disability, their family and the people who support them.

“We will be paying special attention to comparing this year’s data with last year to identify key trends."

Visit the Voice of Queenslanders with Disability Survey on the link below:
https://qdn.org.au/voice-of-queenslanders-with-disability-survey/

You can take the survey that is right for you!
https://inclusivefutures.griffith.edu.au/hub-page/vqd
Obscure Orchestra: Companions at the Powerhouse (Auslan Performance)

Share Obscure Orchestra: Companions at the Powerhouse (Auslan Performance) on Facebook Share Obscure Orchestra: Companions at the Powerhouse (Auslan Performance) on Twitter Share Obscure Orchestra: Companions at the Powerhouse (Auslan Performance) on Linkedin Email Obscure Orchestra: Companions at the Powerhouse (Auslan Performance) link

Join award-winning ensemble Matt Hsu’s Obscure Orchestra, guest-vocalist Erin Fitzsimon (aka INIGO), and composers Jodie Rottle, Hannah Reardon-Smith, and Saro Roro as they explore companionship through music.
Together, they present new alternative pop and experimental works that position disability and queer friendship at the forefront. These musical companions endeavor to make this a sensory friendly event for performers and audience members alike. It features music arranged in ways that carefully consider the accessibility requirements of the performers, including light, motion, ensemble volume through instrumentation, and physical accessibility. These elements become companions, or friends, that shape compositional process and collective music making.
Matt Hsu’s Obscure Orchestra is a DIY anti-racist ensemble underpinned by community-minded inclusivity, comprising of 20+ BIPOC, First Nations, disabled, non-binary and trans artists. Challenging the pomp and formality of classical orchestras, Obscure Orchestra is regarded as one of Australia’s most respected ensembles.
Date: 8 March 2024
Time: 8pm
Duration: 120 minutes
Location: Brisbane Powerhouse, 119 Lamington Street, New Farm Queensland
This is a sensory friendly and accessible event, for tickets or enquiries, visit the Brisbane Powerhouse events website: https://brisbanepowerhouse.org/events/obscure-orchestra/
Please share amongst your networks.
More information, please contact:

Dr Jodie Rottle, Resident Adjunct
Creative Arts Research Institute (CARI)
Griffith University
Email: j.rottle@griffith.edu.au
Tel: 0434 998 330
Disability Inclusion Author Talk Series: A conversation with Mary Li - Principal Repétitéur and Ballet Mistress with the Queensland Ballet and author of Mary’s Last Dance.

Share Disability Inclusion Author Talk Series: A conversation with Mary Li - Principal Repétitéur and Ballet Mistress with the Queensland Ballet and author of Mary’s Last Dance. on Facebook Share Disability Inclusion Author Talk Series: A conversation with Mary Li - Principal Repétitéur and Ballet Mistress with the Queensland Ballet and author of Mary’s Last Dance. on Twitter Share Disability Inclusion Author Talk Series: A conversation with Mary Li - Principal Repétitéur and Ballet Mistress with the Queensland Ballet and author of Mary’s Last Dance. on Linkedin Email Disability Inclusion Author Talk Series: A conversation with Mary Li - Principal Repétitéur and Ballet Mistress with the Queensland Ballet and author of Mary’s Last Dance. link

Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability invites you to attend our Author Talk event with esteemed guest Mary Li (author of Mary’s Last Dance), hosted by Dr Maretta Mann.
Mary Li (née McKendry) principal repétitéur at the Queensland Ballet, faced a unique challenge when her daughter, Sophie, was diagnosed as profoundly deaf at 17 months. Mary, a former principal dancer with the London Festival Ballet (English National Ballet), shifted her focus to support Sophie’s journey, juggling speech therapy and adapting her busy ballet schedule.
Sophie, determined to navigate the hearing world, learned to lip-read, received a cochlear implant, and embraced mainstream education. As a young woman, she discovered Auslan, enhancing her language skills and boosting confidence. Reflecting on Sophie’s journey after completing her memoir, “Mary’s Last Dance”, the entire family embraced Auslan, deepening their bond.
Born in Rockhampton, Queensland, Mary Li’s illustrious ballet career includes stints with the Royal Ballet and Houston Ballet. Returning to Australia, she spent a decade with the Australian Ballet before joining theQueensland Ballet as Principal Repétitéur. Alongside her husband Li Cunxin AO (https://licunxin.com), the artistic director, they elevated the company’s global standing.
Mary’s resilience, a hallmark of her ballet career, proved crucial in navigating and ultimately embracing her child’s disability. Her story, a fusion of ballet and family strength, exemplifies courage, determination, and unwavering will.

Find out more about Mary Li and her book “Mary’s Last Dance” at https://www.penguin.com.au/authors/mary-li

Visit Sophie Li’s website https://www.sophieli.com.au.

Event Details
Wednesday, 3 April 2024, 11.30 am–1.30 pm
Queensland Conservatorium (QCGU) Foyer, S01
Southbank Campus, Griffith University
Access a venue map on this link or visit https://www.griffith.edu.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0023/361670/South-Bank-campus-map.pdf

RSVP
Please confirm your attendance before:
Thursday, 21 March 2024
Click here to register your attendance or visit: https://forms.office.com/r/gLhhR3iV7m
Alternatively register via the QR Code below.

Contact us
Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability
inclusivefutures@griffith.edu.au