Source: Australian Capital Territory – State Government
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Released 10/12/2025
Canberrans who are making our city more inclusive and accessible for people with disability have been celebrated at the Chief Minister’s Inclusion Awards.
The annual awards recognise local champions who are making a real difference in the lives of people by breaking down barriers in ACT workplaces, businesses, cultural spaces and communities through innovative and inclusive initiatives.
The 2025 Awards and winners are:
Leader in Inclusion
Emma Myers is a screenwriter, actor, disability advocate and Federal Parliamentary Press Gallery journalist. As a co-creator and co-writer of Australian comedy television series Latecomers, Emma highlighted the intersection of womanhood, sexuality and disability – heralding an important shift in how people with disability are depicted on screen.
Excellence in Inclusive and Innovative Employment Practices
Raffy Sgroi has created accessible and inclusive workplaces across her multiple businesses, implementing groundbreaking workplace modifications and adaptive technologies. She also developed an innovative program called Transforming Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, which has been adopted by over 30 businesses.
Excellence in Collaborating with people with Disability
Stellar Company and the Chamaeleon Collective – The Chamaeleon Collective, established in 2020 by The Stellar Company, is an inclusive dance company providing professional dance opportunities for dancers of all ages, abilities and backgrounds. The Chamaeleon Collective continually push the boundaries of professionally produced and presented inclusive arts practice.
Excellence in Access and Inclusion
Tahlya O’Toole ensures genuine inclusion is achieved by continually exceeding industry minimums through proactive, culturally safe, inclusive and person-centred service delivery in her role as Founder and Managing Director of Enabled Disability Services.
Excellence in Innovation and Impact
Eloise Higgins has consistently enhanced the inclusion of people with disability through her role as Manager of Canberra’s STEM-learning studio, Daydream Machine. At just 18 years old, Eloise has taken the initiative to personally tutor neurodivergent students, mentor two young people outside her formal role, and support families by helping them better understand and celebrate their children’s strengths.
Sue Salthouse Award for Championing Human Rights and Equality
Ebe Ganon has amplified the voices of people with disability in policy discussions both nationally and internationally, including in her role as Board Chair of Children and Young People with Disability Australia. She recently represented young Canberrans at the 2025 United Nations Conference of State Parties in New York, delivering presentations on AI and inclusive education to international delegates.
Highly Commended certificates were also presented to:
Shift & Co – Excellence in Collaborating with people with Disability
Hands On Studio – Excellence in Access and Inclusion
Stages of Empathy by Rebus Theatre – Excellence in Access and Inclusion
Quote attributable to Chief Minister Andrew Barr:
“Our community benefits when inclusion is a priority and when the needs and rights of people with disability are valued.
“These awards highlight the many practical actions we can all adopt to make our society more accessible for all Canberrans.”
Quote attributable to Minister for Disability, Carers and Community Services, Suzanne Orr:
“Inclusion is for everyone and it’s something we all can contribute too. Every nominee in this year’s awards demonstrates what can be achieved when people are empowered to fully participate in our community.
A huge congratulations to the winners and a massive thank you to all nominees for the leadership they have shown in making Canberra more inclusive”
Quote attributable to Chair of the ACT Inclusion Council, Kim Marshall:
“The Inclusion Council acknowledges the individuals, businesses, and leaders who continue to dismantle the barriers that prevent people with disability from participating fully in all aspects of life.
“Congratulations for delivering real inclusion across the ACT.”
– Statement ends –
Andrew Barr, MLA | Media Releases