• Disability Action Week 2025: Communicate. Connect. Create.

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    Disability Action Week 2025 promotional graphic. A large central circle reads ‘Disability Action Week 2025, Sunday 23 November to Sunday 30 November’. Surrounding the circle are icons representing accessibility features, including Auslan, Easy Read, captions, hearing access, communication, and inclusive participation. Along the bottom, diverse illustrated figures stand together, including people with a guide dog, a wheelchair user, and families. The tagline reads ‘Communicate. Connect. Create.’ Logos for Delivering for Queensland and the Queensland Government appear at the bottom.

    Disability Action Week is a statewide celebration of accessibility, inclusion and the simple actions we can all take to make Queensland a place where everyone can participate fully. This year’s theme — Communicate. Connect. Create.— encourages all of us to put accessible communication into practice and recognise its role in building stronger, more inclusive communities.

    Small changes matter. By making information easier to understand, offering alternative formats, improving event accessibility, or taking the time to ask someone about their communication preferences, we help create environments where everyone feels welcome, respected and supported.

    Shining a Spotlight on Hopkins Research

    The

    Disability Action Week 2025 promotional graphic. A large central circle reads ‘Disability Action Week 2025, Sunday 23 November to Sunday 30 November’. Surrounding the circle are icons representing accessibility features, including Auslan, Easy Read, captions, hearing access, communication, and inclusive participation. Along the bottom, diverse illustrated figures stand together, including people with a guide dog, a wheelchair user, and families. The tagline reads ‘Communicate. Connect. Create.’ Logos for Delivering for Queensland and the Queensland Government appear at the bottom.

    Disability Action Week is a statewide celebration of accessibility, inclusion and the simple actions we can all take to make Queensland a place where everyone can participate fully. This year’s theme — Communicate. Connect. Create.— encourages all of us to put accessible communication into practice and recognise its role in building stronger, more inclusive communities.

    Small changes matter. By making information easier to understand, offering alternative formats, improving event accessibility, or taking the time to ask someone about their communication preferences, we help create environments where everyone feels welcome, respected and supported.

    Shining a Spotlight on Hopkins Research

    The Hopkins Centre is a leading translational research centre in disability and rehabilitation, based at Griffith University and Princess Alexandra Hospital. Our work focuses on finding practical solutions to complex challenges through interdisciplinary, collaborative and responsive research that is embedded directly in practice.

    While disability and rehabilitation research rarely makes headlines in the same way that medical breakthroughs do, it is essential work. Because we work alongside people with disability, their families, clinicians, policymakers and service organisations, we see firsthand where innovation is needed — and we act on it.

    We are committed to valuing the voice of people with disability in every stage of decision-making and discovery. Their insights shape our research, guide our priorities and ensure we develop solutions that genuinely improve quality of life.

    We regularly produce accessible and alternative-format resources, co-design tools with end users, and embed accessibility in all engagement — from Easy Read and plain language materials to inclusive events, captioning, Auslan, and culturally appropriate communication approaches.

    This year, we are highlighting three impactful projects: co-designing communication tools for people with spinal cord injury, developing accessible sleep resources for people with SCI, and strengthening mental health support pathways for PhD students through inclusive, evidence-based approaches.

    We need your support to continue designing high-quality solutions, services and systems that make a real difference.

    To get involved or explore current research opportunities, visit     hopkinscentre.edu.au/participate-research or email hopkinscentre@griffith.edu.au.

    SPOTLIGHT PROJECTS FOR DISABILITY ACTION WEEK

    1. Co-designing Communication Tools in the Spinal Injuries Unit

    Clear and respectful communication is essential in healthcare, especially for people with complex communication needs. We are partnering with people with spinal cord injury, families, clinicians and lived-experience researchers to co-design a new communication resource for the Metro South Health Spinal Injuries Unit.

    Join our online co-design workshops (Microsoft Teams):

    • Patients & Families: Thursday 4 December, 12pm
    • Staff: Monday 8 December, 10am

    Register your interest: https://inclusivefutures.griffith.edu.au/siu-info

    Contact: Dr Kelsey Chapman (Research Fellow) – dignityproject@griffith.edu.au

    A group of people smiling and discussing papers around a table, promoting a co-design workshop to help create new communication tools for the Spinal Injuries Unit. Join our 2-hour online co-design workshop hosted on Microsoft Teams. Patients/families: Thurs 4 December, 12pm. Staff: Mon 8 Dec 10am. Register: https://inclusivefutures.griffith.edu.au/siu-info. Logos: The Dignity Project, Griffith University, Metro South Health, Queensland Government, NIISQ.

    2. Sleep and Spinal Cord Injury

    Poor sleep affects two in three people with spinal cord injury, yet many do not receive the support they need. Dr Emily Bray and her team at The Hopkins Centre, together with Spinal Life Australia, the Institute for Breathing and Sleep and QSCIS, have co-designed new evidence-based resources to help people understand sleep changes and explore strategies that support better rest and wellbeing.

    Communicate: This project aims to raise awareness of sleep issues following SCI and to share the best ways to manage them from the perspectives of people with SCI and healthcare professionals.

    Connect: Researchers, clinicians, and people with SCI collaborated through a series of co-design workshops to identify how to address SCI-specific sleep issues and their preferred approaches to managing them.

    Create: The main result of this project has been the creation of co-designed sleep management resources tailored to the needs and preferences of people with SCI.

    Key findings and solutions include:

    Sleep issues following SCI emerge early after the injury and persist throughout life. It is crucial to raise awareness among people with SCI and clinicians about the harmful effects of poor sleep quality, the causes of sleep disturbances, and possible solutions. Participants suggested various solutions, including early and routine assessments, as well as educational resources that researchers and clinicians could explore to address these issues.

    Learn more and access the resources:
    https://www.hopkinscentre.edu.au/project/seed-project-sleep-disturbances-following-spinal-163

    Contact Dr Emily Bray:
    https://www.hopkinscentre.edu.au/people-view/emily-bray-177

    Social media tile for The Hopkins Centre - Disability Action Week 2025: 23-30 November | Communicate. Connect. Create. Research Spotlight: Sleeping better after Spinal Cord Injury – Dr Emily Bray. Vector illustration of a woman with long hair asleep in a bed with her head resting on the pillow. Footer: Our partners Spinal Life Australia and the Institute of Breathing and Sleep. Tagline: Bold ideas. Better solutions.

    3. Creating Supportive Pathways for PhD Student Mental Health

    Behind the prestige of a PhD lies a hidden mental health crisis. Many candidates face severe distress, driven by isolation, financial pressure, and perfectionism, with research suggesting up to one-third meet suicide-risk criteria. PhD researcher Ali Khan at The Hopkins Centre focuses on better mental health support and adjustments for PhD students, particularly those with psychosocial disabilities.

    Communicate: The project aims to break the silence around PhD mental health, fostering open communication between students, supervisors, and institutions to remove bureaucratic barriers to support.

    Connect: By bringing together all the key stakeholders, the research builds connections to combat isolation and create a collaborative, supportive academic community.

    Create: The goal is to create practical, systemic solutions and more inclusive policies that support the mental well-being and academic success of all PhD students.

    Key findings and solutions include:

    • Key Risks: Loneliness, impostor syndrome, financial instability, and supervisor-student misalignment are major predictors of distress.
    • Effective Strategies: Digital mental health tools, peer financial mentoring, and therapeutic approaches like music therapy show significant promise as accessible, low-cost interventions.

    Learn more and access resources:

    The Research Project: Improving Mental Health Accommodations for PhDs

    Contact Ali Khan: ali.khan3@griffithuni.edu.au

    Word jumble in the shape of a persons head with a range of words describing mental health ie: Stress, Overwhelmed, Exhaustion, Anxiety, Panic, Despair. etc.

  • Disability Action Week: Sleep and Spinal Cord Injury: What You Need to Know

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    Social media tile for The Hopkins Centre - Disability Action Week 2025: 23-30 November | Communicate. Connect. Create. Research Spotlight: Sleeping better after Spinal Cord Injury – Dr Emily Bray. Vector illustration of a woman with long hair asleep in a bed with her head resting on the pillow. Footer: Our partners Spinal Life Australia and the Institute of Breathing and Sleep. Tagline: Bold ideas. Better solutions.

    Good sleep is vital for health and wellbeing—yet research shows that two in three people living with a spinal cord injury (SCI) experience poor sleep, and most haven’t sought support.

    As part of Disability Action Week, we’re highlighting important work led by Dr Emily Bray and her team at The Hopkins Centre, who have partnered with clinicians, researchers, and people with lived experience to explore this issue and bridge the information gap.

    Together, they’ve co-developed new, evidence-based resources to help people with SCI better understand sleep changes and find strategies that work for them.

    View the graphics below

    Social media tile for The Hopkins Centre - Disability Action Week 2025: 23-30 November | Communicate. Connect. Create. Research Spotlight: Sleeping better after Spinal Cord Injury – Dr Emily Bray. Vector illustration of a woman with long hair asleep in a bed with her head resting on the pillow. Footer: Our partners Spinal Life Australia and the Institute of Breathing and Sleep. Tagline: Bold ideas. Better solutions.

    Good sleep is vital for health and wellbeing—yet research shows that two in three people living with a spinal cord injury (SCI) experience poor sleep, and most haven’t sought support.

    As part of Disability Action Week, we’re highlighting important work led by Dr Emily Bray and her team at The Hopkins Centre, who have partnered with clinicians, researchers, and people with lived experience to explore this issue and bridge the information gap.

    Together, they’ve co-developed new, evidence-based resources to help people with SCI better understand sleep changes and find strategies that work for them.

    View the graphics below to learn more about this important research and how it supports the SCI community.

    We would like to thank our partners Spinal Life Australia, Institute for Breathing and Sleep and the Queensland Spinal Cord Injuries Service (QSCIS) for their support.

    Contact Dr Emily Bray for more information:
    https://www.hopkinscentre.edu.au/people-view/emily-bray-177

    Visit our website to find out more: https://www.hopkinscentre.edu.au/project/seed-project-sleep-disturbances-following-spinal-163


    Infographic titled “Why is sleep important?” It explains that sleep helps us think clearly, feel good, and stay healthy. Most adults need 7–9 hours of sleep, but this varies. After spinal cord injury (SCI), poor sleep is common — 2 out of 3 experience it. Poor sleep can affect focus and memory, health (heart disease and diabetes), mental wellbeing, and social and work life.

    Infographic titled “The 3 B’s of Sleep.” It explains that many factors can affect sleep and influence one another. The 3 B’s — My Body, My Brain, and My Bedroom — may help identify causes of poor sleep. The text encourages readers to explore more graphics or scan QR codes to complete the Sleep Diaries and 3 B’s of Sleep Worksheet. At the bottom, there’s an illustration of two people beside a large clipboard labelled “3 B’s activity” and two QR codes labelled “Sleep Diaries” and “3 B’s Worksheet.”

    Infographic titled “My Body.” It explains that our body and health play a big role in how well we sleep. Factors such as age, hormones, diet, and medical conditions can affect sleep quality. Common body-related challenges include sleep disorders (e.g., sleep apnoea, nasal congestion, obstructed airways), spasms, pain (nerve, musculoskeletal, visceral), bladder and bowel issues, hormonal changes (e.g., menopause), and positioning and pressure relief. The design features a smiling person illustration and icons beside each challenge.

    Infographic titled “My Bedroom.” It explains that a calm, safe bedroom helps your mind and body relax for better sleep. Things to check within your sleep environment include: Bright lights and loud noises, equipment comfort (e.g., bed, mattress, pillows, splints), room temperature (too hot or cold), Distractions (screens and devices), physical safety, overnight help and support, family routines (e.g., co-sleeping, shift work). The design features an illustration of a bed and icons beside each point.

    Infographic titled “My Brain.” It explains that your brain controls your body clock, body temperature, hormones, thoughts and emotions – all of which impact sleep. Brain-related sleep disruptors include - Worries and stress (e.g., thinking about the past, finances and parenting), mental health (e.g., depression or anxiety), disrupted body clock (circadian rhythm), and medication, alcohol or drug use. The design features an illustration of a brain and icons beside each point.

    An infographic titled: Finding a solution. Solving sleep problems after SCI isn’t always easy. You might have to try a few things before you find what works best for you, but stick with it. Some sleep problems might be fixed with simple changes, like going to bed and waking up at the same time each day, avoiding caffeine late in the day, limiting screen time, and reading a book before bed. Others might need more support. In this case: Track your sleep for 2 weeks to see if there are any patterns; map out the causes of your poor sleep using the 3 B’s exercise; seek advice from health professionals, your spinal outreach team or community organisation. The design features illustrations of a clock, document with a magnifying glass and a mobile device with speech bubbles.

    More information: Dr Emily Bray, Research Fellow, The Hopkins Centre. Email: Emily.bray@griffith.edu.au or visit our website http://www.hopkinscentre.edu.au – Scan the QR code or visit our project page at https://shorturl.at/zcF1i.The design features an illustration of a woman with long hair sleeping with her head on a pillow.


  • New Research on Supporting Neurodivergent University Students

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    Dr Kathy Gibbs from Griffith University smiles at the camera while standing in a bright hallway. She has short blonde hair and wears black-framed glasses, a black top, a gold necklace, and red earrings.Dr Kathy Gibbs, Griffith University

    Dr Kathy Gibbs, Senior Lecturer and researcher from Griffith University has published important new research sharing the voices of neurodivergent students studying at an Australian university. These students talked about what helps them learn well, what gets in the way, and what universities can do better.

    The study shows three big things matter most:
    • feeling understood and supported
    • clear, flexible and well-designed learning
    • real connections with tutors and peers.

    Many students said that one-size-fits-all support doesn’t work. They succeed when learning is designed in inclusive ways and when support is tailored

    Dr Kathy Gibbs from Griffith University smiles at the camera while standing in a bright hallway. She has short blonde hair and wears black-framed glasses, a black top, a gold necklace, and red earrings.Dr Kathy Gibbs, Griffith University

    Dr Kathy Gibbs, Senior Lecturer and researcher from Griffith University has published important new research sharing the voices of neurodivergent students studying at an Australian university. These students talked about what helps them learn well, what gets in the way, and what universities can do better.

    The study shows three big things matter most:
    • feeling understood and supported
    • clear, flexible and well-designed learning
    • real connections with tutors and peers.

    Many students said that one-size-fits-all support doesn’t work. They succeed when learning is designed in inclusive ways and when support is tailored to their needs and strengths.

    This research is a great reminder that simple changes — clearer instructions, flexible options, and building strong relationships — can make university more inclusive for everyone.

    📘 You can read the full paper here: https://doi.org/10.1007/s13384-025-00828-2

    More information:
    Dr Kathy Gibbs
    k.gibbs@griffith.edu.au

  • Help Make National Parks Accessible

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    Your voice can help shape more inclusive and accessible parks across Australia.

    Did you know that while 1 in 5 Australians live with disability, fewer than 1 in 10 visit national parks?

    Public green spaces should be for everyone - But accessibility barriers often make them out of reach.

    Dr Michael Norwood and his team are conducting vital research to understand these challenges and improve access to nature for all Australians.

    If you have a disability or support someone who does, your experience could help make Australia's national parks and green space more accessible for everyone.

    WE WANT TO HEAR

    Your voice can help shape more inclusive and accessible parks across Australia.

    Did you know that while 1 in 5 Australians live with disability, fewer than 1 in 10 visit national parks?

    Public green spaces should be for everyone - But accessibility barriers often make them out of reach.

    Dr Michael Norwood and his team are conducting vital research to understand these challenges and improve access to nature for all Australians.

    If you have a disability or support someone who does, your experience could help make Australia's national parks and green space more accessible for everyone.

    WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU!

    Take part in our National Park and Greenspace Accessibility Survey to share your experiences and ideas for change.

    Participation will involve completing an online survey which will explore if you visited a national park as someone with a disability, as a support person or significant other of someone with a disability.

    Scan the QR code on the flyer or click here to take part: https://inclusivefutures.griffith.edu.au/national-parks-study

    Ethics approval number: Griffith University ref no: 2025/033

    MORE INFORMATION

    Dr Michael Norwood
    BEEHive Research Team
    hopkinscentre@griffith.edu.au


  • Transport Equity for All

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    Banner with person in denim jeans using a cane walking a golden retriever dog, person with curly hair with glasses wearing a navy scarf and blue shirt siting on the bus looking out the window, person in manual wheelchair with blonde hair tied back, glasses, tattoo arms sleeves, wearing black singlet and yellow pants walking small black dog; and young person riding a trike on pathway with middle-aged adult walking a white dog next to.

    Transport Equity for All project lead by Dr Lisa Stafford is gathering the voices and experiences of Australians with disability to build knowledge and help co-create solutions to plan more fair, easy, safe and inclusive public transport.

    Share your experiences by completing the short online questionnaire or Easy Read storyboard — every voice counts.

    The project is funded by the Australian Research Council.

    More information: Contact lisa.stafford@griffith.edu.au or Phone 07 338 21217 or visit:

    https://inclusivefutures.griffith.edu.au/get-involved-person-with-disabilities

    Banner with person in denim jeans using a cane walking a golden retriever dog, person with curly hair with glasses wearing a navy scarf and blue shirt siting on the bus looking out the window, person in manual wheelchair with blonde hair tied back, glasses, tattoo arms sleeves, wearing black singlet and yellow pants walking small black dog; and young person riding a trike on pathway with middle-aged adult walking a white dog next to.

    Transport Equity for All project lead by Dr Lisa Stafford is gathering the voices and experiences of Australians with disability to build knowledge and help co-create solutions to plan more fair, easy, safe and inclusive public transport.

    Share your experiences by completing the short online questionnaire or Easy Read storyboard — every voice counts.

    The project is funded by the Australian Research Council.

    More information: Contact lisa.stafford@griffith.edu.au or Phone 07 338 21217 or visit:

    https://inclusivefutures.griffith.edu.au/get-involved-person-with-disabilities

  • IDPwD Panel Discussion: Fostering disability inclusive societies for advancing social progress

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    Flyer advertising the online IDPwD Panel: Fostering Disability Inclusive Societies for Advancing Social Progress. Wednesday 3 December 2025, 12 pm to 1 pm (AEST) Online. Headshots of Lisa Cox, Dr Maria Golubovskaya, Brad Kinsela GAICD, A/Prof Popi Sotiriadou and Dr Kelsey Chapman together with a hero image of diverse people with laptops and documents. The Hopkins Centre and Griffith University Logos follow.

    Join us to mark the United Nations International Day of Persons with Disabilities on Wednesday, 3 December 2025 (12:00–1:00pm AEST) in our online forum hosted by Griffith Business School’s Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee, Inclusive Futures Reimagining Disability, and The Hopkins Centre.

    This year’s theme Fostering disability inclusive societies for advancing social progress, offers an important opportunity to explore how we can create more inclusive communities as we head towards the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

    In Australia, one in five people experience disability and related barriers to meaningful employment. In this discussion, our panel will consider

    Flyer advertising the online IDPwD Panel: Fostering Disability Inclusive Societies for Advancing Social Progress. Wednesday 3 December 2025, 12 pm to 1 pm (AEST) Online. Headshots of Lisa Cox, Dr Maria Golubovskaya, Brad Kinsela GAICD, A/Prof Popi Sotiriadou and Dr Kelsey Chapman together with a hero image of diverse people with laptops and documents. The Hopkins Centre and Griffith University Logos follow.

    Join us to mark the United Nations International Day of Persons with Disabilities on Wednesday, 3 December 2025 (12:00–1:00pm AEST) in our online forum hosted by Griffith Business School’s Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee, Inclusive Futures Reimagining Disability, and The Hopkins Centre.

    This year’s theme Fostering disability inclusive societies for advancing social progress, offers an important opportunity to explore how we can create more inclusive communities as we head towards the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

    In Australia, one in five people experience disability and related barriers to meaningful employment. In this discussion, our panel will consider both the opportunities and challenges of fostering disability inclusion in Southeast Queensland—particularly in the areas of education, employment, volunteering, and business. We’ll also explore how mega-sporting events like Brisbane 2032 can be leveraged as tools for long-term social and economic progress, rather than producing only short-term, event-based opportunities.

    You will hear from:

    Lisa Cox OAM is an author, university researcher, TEDx speaker and internationally awarded thought leader. Her work is focused on epistemic disruption, leveraging the power and influence of industries like media and advertising to change social attitudes about disability while positively impacting social outcomes, like employment.

    Dr. Maria Golubovskaya, Lecturer, Griffith Business School – researching youth and disability employment, hospitality work, and service worker wellbeing.

    Brad Kinsela GAICD brings an extensive background as disability and social inclusion champion, qualified access consultant and board member/company director, Adjunct Industry Fellow at Griffith University, as well as an extensive career as a 'former' senior executive in the Government for over 26 years, including the Games Independent Infrastructure and Coordination Authority. Coming from a background of disability and human rights advocacy, lobbying, and community-based human services and practice, it is not surprising that Brad has maintained his connections, profile, and commitment to living in a society that values, services and embraces all members of community

    Separate from his public policy life, his love for family and friends and embracing the outdoor wonders of the world has seen Brad take his passion to have accessibility and inclusion as the 'norm' rather than the exception has taken him to many places, most notably Barcelona and Paris in 2025 during the Paralympic Games.

    Associate Professor Popi Sotiriadou is a lecturer and researcher with the Griffith Business School and a distinguished international expert in managing high-performance sport and sports education. Her work focuses particularly on advancing women in sport, accessibility, and inclusive practices that ensure equitable participation and representation. Popi is the founder of Vision for Motion, an innovative app that promotes physical activity, wellbeing, and community connection for people with visual impairments.

    The discussion will be moderated by Dr Kelsey Chapman, Research Fellow with Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability, whose work explores effective service delivery for people with disability, particularly in transport and health.

    Accessibility will be a priority, with live captions available throughout the session. This event will also be recorded and shared post-event, along with a full transcript for those who could not attend via YouTube and our website.

    👉 Register now to be part of this important conversation: https://shorturl.at/Nx5Qk

    More information

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

    Dr Millicent Kennelly – Griffith Business School
    m.kennelly@griffith.edu.au


    All copy in the caption above including the registration URL Link.


  • Inclusive Transport Futures: A National Invitation to Partner in Research and Innovation

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    Why Inclusive Transport Matters

    Transport is essential for independence, health and wellbeing, and social and economic participation. Yet, it remains one of the most reported forms of disability discrimination in Australia. Despite decades of reform, 35% of people with disability still face barriers to public transport.


    With the rise of digital technologies (including AI, smart glasses and autonomous vehicles); growing expectations for inclusive infrastructure (e.g. Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games), and the push for more sustainable urban planning in our cities and regions - now is the time to radically transform transport systems through inclusive innovation.


    We invite industry

    Why Inclusive Transport Matters

    Transport is essential for independence, health and wellbeing, and social and economic participation. Yet, it remains one of the most reported forms of disability discrimination in Australia. Despite decades of reform, 35% of people with disability still face barriers to public transport.


    With the rise of digital technologies (including AI, smart glasses and autonomous vehicles); growing expectations for inclusive infrastructure (e.g. Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games), and the push for more sustainable urban planning in our cities and regions - now is the time to radically transform transport systems through inclusive innovation.


    We invite industry, government, and community organisations to join us in shaping a national research agenda that delivers real-world impact for inclusive transport.

    Our Collaborative Strength

    This initiative brings together leading researchers from three universities with deep expertise in inclusive design, transport equity, digital innovation, and lived experience research.

    Professor Elizabeth Kendall – Griffith University

    Director of Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability. A national leader in disability and rehabilitation research, citizen science and consumer-led research. Elizabeth established and was the founding Director of The Hopkins Centre, a partnership between Griffith University, Queensland Health and the National Injury Insurance Scheme, Queensland, leading translational research in disability inclusion and rehabilitation.

    Dr Lisa Stafford – Griffith University

    Australian Research Council Future Fellow and recognised leader in planning inclusive communities. Lisa leads research across disability participation, planning and transport equity including trips not made, whole-of-journey mapping, planning strategies and co-creation with lived experience.

    Professor Kim Marriott – Monash University

    Expert in digital assistive technologies, Kim’s research focuses on emerging technologies, such as AI and smart glasses for accessible information access and wayfinding.

    Professor Graham Currie – Monash University

    Internationally recognised leader in public transport planning and policy. Graham brings deep expertise in transport equity, infrastructure reform, and strategic planning.

    Professor Simon Darcy – University of Technology Sydney

    Global leader in inclusive tourism and transport. Simon’s work spans universal design, accessibility innovation, and lived experience research, with a focus on systems change.


    Potential Project Areas

    We are seeking partners to co-design and pilot research in areas such as:

    • Inclusive Journey Mapping: Understanding the full travel experience for people with disability, from planning to arrival.
    • Trips Not Made: Investigating the impact of inaccessible travel on tourism, wellbeing, and social and economic participation.
    • Navigation within transport hubs: Addressing signage, navigation in complex, stressful environments, and unexpected hazards.
    • Handling Disruptions: Creating accessible communication systems for real-time updates and alternative routing.
    • Accessible journey planning: Developing an AI-powered travel assistant for whole of journey support starting with pre-journey planning.
    • Passenger Assistance Mechanisms: Designing scalable support systems for regional and remote travel.
    • Consumer-Led Innovation: Engaging people with lived experience to identify priorities and test new service models.
    • Workforce Development: Training transport staff in inclusive service delivery and accessibility awareness.
    • Policy and Standards Engagement: Supporting implementation of disability standards and creating user-friendly guides.

    Funding Pathways

    We are actively preparing proposals under two major Australian Research Council grant schemes:

    ARC Linkage Project

    Proposed focus on supporting navigation and information access in transport hubs.[MM5] [LS6]

    • Deadline: 18 March 2026
    • Funding: $300,000–$400,000 over 2-3 years
    • Partner Contributions: Cash and/or in-kind
    • Optional: Co-fund PhDs via the National Industry PhD Program

    ARC Collaborate Centre

    A large-scale national consortium grant to drive long-term transformation in inclusive transport.

    • Expected Deadline: Late 2026
    • Funding: Up to $5 million over 5 years
    • Focus: Whole-of-journey accessibility, inclusive technologies, systems reform, and workforce development


    Contact Us

    To express interest or explore partnership opportunities, please contact the team at:
    inclusivefutures@griffith.edu.au


    Professor Elizabeth Kendall

    Director, Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability

    e.kendall@griffith.edu.au


    Professor Kimbal Marriott

    Director, Monash Assistive Technology and Society (MATS) Centre

    k.marriott@monash.edu


    All text in caption above.

    All text in caption above.


  • Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability joins the World Health Organisation Disability Health Equity Network

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    Flyer advertising the livestreamed opening ceremony of the inaugural meeting of the WHO Disability Health Equity Network on 12 November 2025, 9:00-10:30am CET.

    We’re proud to announce that Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability, Griffith University, led by Professor Elizabeth Kendall OAM GAICD (Director) has officially become a member of the World Health Organisation (WHO) Disability Health Equity Network — a landmark global initiative driving action to achieve health equity for the 1.3 billion people worldwide with disability.

    Representing Inclusive Futures at the Network’s Inauguration this week (12–13 November) at WHO Headquarters, Geneva, are Dr Kelsey Chapman (Research Fellow, The Dignity Project) and Dr Kelly Clanchy (Program Director, Bachelor of Clinical Exercise Physiology).

    This global collaboration recognises that people with disability continue

    Flyer advertising the livestreamed opening ceremony of the inaugural meeting of the WHO Disability Health Equity Network on 12 November 2025, 9:00-10:30am CET.

    We’re proud to announce that Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability, Griffith University, led by Professor Elizabeth Kendall OAM GAICD (Director) has officially become a member of the World Health Organisation (WHO) Disability Health Equity Network — a landmark global initiative driving action to achieve health equity for the 1.3 billion people worldwide with disability.

    Representing Inclusive Futures at the Network’s Inauguration this week (12–13 November) at WHO Headquarters, Geneva, are Dr Kelsey Chapman (Research Fellow, The Dignity Project) and Dr Kelly Clanchy (Program Director, Bachelor of Clinical Exercise Physiology).

    This global collaboration recognises that people with disability continue to face significant and avoidable health inequities—including shorter life expectancy and higher risk of disease—due to systemic barriers in and beyond health systems.

    Investing in disability-inclusive health is not only a human rights obligation—it’s smart policy, with research showing a tenfold return on investment in inclusive health care.

    We’re honoured to contribute to this international movement working to ensure Health for All truly means all.


    Dr Kelly Clanchy (brunette) and Dr Kelsey Chapman (blonde) wearing business pants suits and attending the WHO Conference in Geneva, Switzerland.Dr Kelly Clanchy together with Dr Kelsey Chapman at the WHO Conference in Geneva.

    Dr Kelsey Chapman a young white woman with long blonde hair and wearing a navy pinstripe pants suit and lanyard stands in front of the WHO photowall at the conference.Dr Kelsey Chapman




  • Unlocking Inclusive Futures: A Roundtable on Disability, Higher Education and Career Pathways

    Share Unlocking Inclusive Futures: A Roundtable on Disability, Higher Education and Career Pathways on Facebook Share Unlocking Inclusive Futures: A Roundtable on Disability, Higher Education and Career Pathways on Twitter Share Unlocking Inclusive Futures: A Roundtable on Disability, Higher Education and Career Pathways on Linkedin Email Unlocking Inclusive Futures: A Roundtable on Disability, Higher Education and Career Pathways link
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    Unlocking Inclusive Futures: A Roundtable on Disability, Higher Education and Career Pathways

    The Queensland Disability Research Network (QDRN) invites you to join an important online symposium exploring how we can create more inclusive pathways to higher education and professional careers for students with disability.

    This event brings together leaders from universities, government, and the disability sector to share research, lived experience, and practical strategies for building equitable, accessible learning and working environments.

    Featured Speakers:

    Unlocking Inclusive Futures: A Roundtable on Disability, Higher Education and Career Pathways

    The Queensland Disability Research Network (QDRN) invites you to join an important online symposium exploring how we can create more inclusive pathways to higher education and professional careers for students with disability.

    This event brings together leaders from universities, government, and the disability sector to share research, lived experience, and practical strategies for building equitable, accessible learning and working environments.

    Featured Speakers:


    Event Highlights:

    • Expert panel discussions and workshops
    • Live captioning and Easy to Read materials
    • Opportunities to connect with educators, advocates, and policy makers


    📅 26th November 2025

    🕓 4:00 – 5:30pm AEST

    💻 Online Event – Free Registration


    Together, we can drive systemic change and strengthen pathways to inclusion across Australia’s tertiary sector.

    🔗 Register now: Click Here



  • Two New Ways to Support Wellbeing After Spinal Cord Injury

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    Dr Marita Heck, Adjunct Research Fellow at The Hopkins Centre, has two exciting new contributions aimed at enhancing the lives of people living with spinal cord injury (SCI)—from evidence-based research to practical guidance on intimacy and pleasure.

    1. New insights into sexual rehabilitation support after spinal cord injury

    In “Sexual rehabilitation support experiences of Australian adults living with a spinal cord injury” (Allen, Heck, Doig, Cudmore, Lawrence & Mason, 2025), the team explored the lived experiences of nine Australian adults (8 men; 1 woman) with spinal cord injury (SCI). Guided by Material–Discursive–Intrapsychic Theory, the study revealed how physical functioning,

    Dr Marita Heck, Adjunct Research Fellow at The Hopkins Centre, has two exciting new contributions aimed at enhancing the lives of people living with spinal cord injury (SCI)—from evidence-based research to practical guidance on intimacy and pleasure.

    1. New insights into sexual rehabilitation support after spinal cord injury

    In “Sexual rehabilitation support experiences of Australian adults living with a spinal cord injury” (Allen, Heck, Doig, Cudmore, Lawrence & Mason, 2025), the team explored the lived experiences of nine Australian adults (8 men; 1 woman) with spinal cord injury (SCI). Guided by Material–Discursive–Intrapsychic Theory, the study revealed how physical functioning, relational identity and broader disability-stigma discourses combine to shape sexual quality of life after SCI.

    Key findings:

    • Rehabilitation tends to focus strongly on physical function (e.g., erection, ejaculation) while giving less attention to emotional, relational and identity-aspects of sexuality.
    • Participants described loss of autonomy, feelings of shame or stigma, and challenges in partner communication / relational connection as major influences on sexual wellbeing.
    • When sexual rehabilitation support attends to emotional connection, personalised equipment and partner-/relationship-oriented goals, outcomes for sexual wellbeing improve.

    Why it matters:

    • Because sexuality is a fundamental component of wellbeing, addressing it in rehabilitation is critical — yet often under-addressed for people with SCI.
    • By broadening support beyond just “physical functioning” to include relational, psychological and identity dimensions, clinicians and services can help people living with SCI experience fuller, more meaningful sexual lives.

    Practical tip:
    If you work in rehabilitation (or support someone who does), embed a simple “relationship check-in” into the routine: ask “How has your /intimacy /connection changed since the injury?” and then include a follow-up question “What aspect of this would you like to change/restore?” Use that to guide discussion of equipment, partner communication, self-identity and expectations — not just physical sexual function.

    📄 Citation:
    Allen, A., Heck, M., Doig, C., Cudmore, T., Lawrence, K., & Mason, J. (2025). Sexual rehabilitation support experiences of Australian adults living with a spinal cord injury. The Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine, 1–10.
    https://doi.org/10.1080/10790268.2025.2496567

    Photo of an open hard cover book, with middle pages forming the shape of a heart, with the quote “What if your body’s worth wasn’t defined by what it can or can’t do?” Dr Marita Heck.

    2. Exploring Intimacy and Pleasure

    Off the back of research findings and clinical work, Dr Heck has also released The Sensuality of Connection: An Erotic Playbook to Intimacy After Spinal Cord Injury, to bridge the gap. Whilst the guide is designed for people living with SCI—it is truly suitable for everyone! This resource encourages exploring connection, intimacy, and pleasure in new, playful ways.

    Whether you’re a researcher, clinician, or someone interested in living well after SCI, Dr Heck’s latest work offers insights and practical tools to support recovery, wellbeing, and connection.

    Get in touch / learn more:

    Dr Marita Heck
    The Hopkins Centre
    marita.heck@griffith.edu.au