Autism Queensland’s 2025 Recognition Awards

Councillor for Runcorn Ward, Councillor Kim Marx; Autism Queensland, Chair, Mr Neil Makepeace and Directors of the Board; CEO, Ms Frances Scodellaro; award finalists; distinguished guests; ladies and gentlemen; boys and girls. 

I begin by acknowledging the Original Custodians of the lands around Brisbane, the Turrbal and Jagera people, and pay my respects to Elders past, present and emerging, and to any First Nations people here tonight. 

I warmly welcome you to Government House and am delighted to once again host a reception for the presentation of the annual Autism Queensland Recognition Awards. 

This evening, we recognise and celebrate the achievements of some remarkable individuals–of all ages–along with those who support them, including their parents and carers, and representatives from educational, business and community organisations. 

These Recognition Awards are being presented on the eve of the International Day of People with Disability, and you will notice we have lit Government House in the colours blue, green and orange this evening to mark this special day aimed at increasing public awareness, understanding and acceptance of people with disability, and celebrating their achievements and contributions. The theme this year is ‘fostering disability-inclusive societies for advancing social progress’, which is especially relevant given the scale of disability in Australia.  

Five-and-a-half million Australians live with a disability, and some 300,000 of those are individuals with autism. Across the country there are many services and initiatives in place to support autistic people. 

Earlier this year, the Federal Government released Australia’s first National Autism Strategy and Action Plan—a seven-year framework to build understanding, create safer and more inclusive communities, and improve quality of life in ways that matter most to autistic Australians. 

For nearly six decades, Autism Queensland has led advocacy and support for people of all ages and backgrounds on the autism spectrum, providing essential services, promoting inclusion, and fostering understanding across communities. It has helped countless families navigate autism with dignity and hope, ensuring no-one walks the journey alone. 

I am proud to be Patron of such a caring organisation dedicated to helping people with autism lead their best lives and reach their full potential.  

Through events like this, we not only celebrate their achievements but also highlight the valuable contributions they make to our society. 

I congratulate this year’s award winners for their extraordinary achievements and valuable contributions. By raising awareness and promoting understanding of the strengths of autistic and neurodivergent individuals, they are helping to build acceptance and strengthen social cohesion in meaningful ways. 

On behalf of all Queenslanders, I commend Autism Queensland, the Board and staff, volunteers and partners in the health and educational sectors for your genuine care and commitment to making a real and lasting difference to the wellbeing of others. 

I also acknowledge the wider community of families, friends, carers and supporters who give so generously of their time and love to support those living with autism. 

Queensland is a much more inclusive and tolerant society thanks to your collective efforts and steadfast determination. 

Once again, congratulations to the award finalists who are with us this evening. 

I hope you enjoy this special occasion.