Today we recognise Stephanie Gotlib’s incredible dedication and service to the disability community, as she prepares to step down as the CEO of Children and Young People with Disability Australia (CYDA).

For more than 10 years at CYDA, Stephanie has been a fierce and consistent advocate for children and young people.
 
She campaigned for the creation of the NDIS – and along with thousands of parents and children across the country, has continued to work just as hard to get the Scheme back on track.
 
Whether it is fighting against unfair changes to child care, or arguing the case for better funding and support for school students with disability, Stephanie has contributed intelligently, passionately and honestly to the policy debate.
 
She calls it as she sees it – always putting children and young people with disability first.
 
Stephanie has changed minds and hearts on the importance of inclusive education and the right of every child to be treated as a learner.
 
She has also exposed terrible injustices and highlighted to the whole community just how much more Australia needs to do – in our schools and more broadly – in order to be a genuinely inclusive country.
 
For years, Stephanie has argued for the establishment of a Royal Commission into the abuse, neglect and violence perpetrated against people with a disability.
 
It is a testament to her persistence and determination – in partnership with others – that this important inquiry is now supported across the Parliament.
 
Stephanie is a genuine leader who is respected by people across the sector and in government.
 
Thank you Stephanie. And all the best in your next endeavour, we know you will continue to make a difference.