Reception for Autism Queensland 2024 Recognition Awards

Autism Queensland Chair, Mr Neil Makepeace and CEO Ms Pam Macrossan; award recipients; staff and volunteers; distinguished guests; ladies and gentlemen.

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

Graeme and I are delighted to welcome you to Government House this afternoon—on this special International Day of People with Disability—as we pay tribute to all the amazing individuals who have been nominated for the 2024 Autism Queensland Recognition Awards.

As Patron of Autism Queensland, I am so proud that Government House is once again hosting this significant event, because there is nothing more uplifting than celebrating the exceptional achievements of Queenslanders!

This afternoon we recognise all of the many incredible individuals across our state who have been nominated for this year’s awards—and of course, those who join us today as finalists.

Whether you are an autistic person, a parent or carer, a school or early childhood education service provider or a patron, you are each striving to forge a clearer, fairer path for others, and so I congratulate you all for your outstanding efforts—that align so perfectly with this year’s global UN message “Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities”.

You are proof that true success is marked by working hard, by showing commitment, passion and determination, with an unquenchable drive to follow your dreams, regardless of challenges.

As role models you are champions for diversity, proving that it is our differences that create a richer, more interesting world, and I have no doubt that your enthusiasm is contagious, and is having a beneficial effect on the wider autism community, and on our society itself.

This is a quest that has been at the heart of Autism Queensland since it first began back in 1967, and is expressed in the organisation’s vision to create “a life of participation, opportunity and choice” so that autistic and other neurodivergent people of all ages can realise their potential.

As Patron, I also know that Autism Queensland places a high value on the contributions and perspectives of others.

Today’s ceremony is important—because we are not just honouring those receiving awards and special commendations, but we are also saying “thank you” to all those working so hard to improve the lives and outcomes of autistic people.

These Awards signify that there is much to celebrate, even if there are still obstacles to be overcome, and they prove that the autism community is a strong and valuable voice for positive change—one that embraces a tremendous spirit of belonging and fellowship.

I commend the Board, Executive, Staff, volunteers and partners—all of you—for working to strengthen our State’s understanding of autism, and for your tireless dedication to the people you assist.

I once again congratulate the finalists with us this afternoon, and hope you enjoy this very special occasion.