Stories

On 6 December 2025, Sydney’s Korean community came together in Rhodes for ‘Bridging Sounds: Australia–Korea Neurodiverse Music Exchange’. The exchange recognised people with disability through music, training and cultural activities.

Eli Sutherland described their creative work with a laugh. “I’m basically a literary gremlin. A bit chaotic, a bit magical, I just like building worlds where everyone belongs.”

On 3 December 2025, Victoria’s Melton City Council hosted the Walk for Inclusion and Respect. This event marked International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD) and the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence.

Loz Booth is one of those people that makes you think about how you use your time. A mother, actor and comedian, she has an impressive resume.

The Southern Region Disability Alliance (SRDA) recognised IDPwD by co-hosting Disability at Dusk. It took place on 27 November 2025 at Myuna Farm in Melbourne’s south-east. Nearly 1,000 community members came together to enjoy an accessible, inclusive and welcoming event.

Para and Ability Dance Western Australia (PADWA) is a charity that provides inclusive dance opportunities for people with disability.

When Karan Nagrani tries to describe what he does, he stops and laughs. It’s not a simple question to answer.

When Dr. Nikhil Autar was named the 2024 NSW Young Australian of the Year, he was stunned. The nomination came as a surprise – “likely from my mum,” he joked.

Some people are born to lead. Some leaders are born to show others what is possible. They open doors and invite others to follow.

Killian is a rare disease advocate from rural Queensland. We asked Killian about his life, and what’s it’s like living with complex and invisible disability.

Joey, 24, is a youth advocate for disability, chronic illness and mental health. Through their advocacy, Joey shares their challenges and joy as a person with disability.

Skye is more than that, though. At the age of 27, she has founded her own creative advocacy agency, is working with Magabala Books to publish her debut novel, has her own podcast, and is also a reporter for the ABC.

‘I go by the motto. Just do it. Every day that’s what I’m thinking, just do it.’

In the bustling halls of the United Nations in New York stood many advocates from around the world. They were attending the 17th session of the Conference of States Parties (COSP17) to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

Fiona is unapologetically deaf. It wasn’t always that way.

My story is about volunteering and giving back to what was given to me.

Singer, ABC Classic Digital Producer and bushwalking enthusiast Ria is passionate about music.

Paralympian, gold medallist and award-winner, James Turner, is quick to point out that he is a fraternal twin.

In the ‘cycle’ of life, Emily has experienced both incredible successes and incredible challenges.

There’s few things Rachel is more passionate about than motorsports.

Margherita describes herself as a young woman, migrant and queer, with physical disability. She’s also a student, currently studying law at the Australian National University.

Peter would have to be one of the most creative people around.

For Ben, growing up was painful, literally.

Vibrant journalist, artist, disability advocate and advisor, Jessica leads a busy and creative life in her regional hometown of Wagga Wagga.

Before Lu got sick she was an out-of-home care case worker and looking forward to finishing her degree and getting married.