Thursday 18 June
People with Disability Australia (PWDA) announces that Jeramy Hope has resigned as President and Director of PWDA.
Jeramy was elected as a Director in November 2025 and served as President from December 2025. We are grateful for his leadership and service during a period of significant reform and uncertainty for people with disability.
Throughout his time as President, Jeramy remained committed to ensuring our members' voices, and the voices, experiences and expertise of people with disability, were at the centre of decisions that affect us. He approached the role with a deep appreciation for the trust members placed in him, a commitment to disability-led advocacy, and a strong belief in the important role Disabled People's Organisations play in advancing the rights and inclusion of all people with disability.
Following Jeramy's resignation, the Board has appointed Jarrod Sandell-Hay as Interim President until the 2026 Annual General Meeting (AGM) in November.
Jarrod was elected to the PWDA Board in November 2025 and has served as Vice President since December 2025. He brings more than 15 years' experience in disability advocacy, systemic reform and community leadership across Victoria and New South Wales, including work with several state and national Disabled People's Organisations.
There is no impact on PWDA's services, advocacy or strategic priorities, and our work continues as normal.
PWDA extends its sincere gratitude to Jeramy for his leadership, advocacy and contribution to our organisation. On behalf of our members, staff and community, we thank him for his service as President.
A message from Jeramy Hope
Dear PWDA members, staff and community.
After careful consideration, I have decided to step down as President and Director of People with Disability Australia (PWDA). Serving in these roles has been among the greatest honours of my career and personal life. As a person with disability, I cherish the opportunity to represent our members, amplify their voices, and promote the rights and inclusion of people with disability across Australia.
PWDA holds a vital and unique place in our community. For decades, it has been a strong advocate for the rights, dignity, and aspirations of people with disability, ensuring lived experience remains central to policy, reform, and public discussion. I am grateful to have contributed to this important work.
I sincerely thank our members, whose stories, experiences, insights, and advocacy continue to help build a stronger, more inclusive Australia. It has been an honour to listen, learn, and represent their voices across various forums. I deeply value the trust members have placed in me.
I also want to recognise the commitment of PWDA's outstanding executive team and staff. Their dedication, expertise, and relentless advocacy improve the lives of people with disability every day. I have been fortunate to work alongside leaders who genuinely care about creating meaningful change.
As Australia undergoes ongoing disability policy reforms, including the future of the NDIS and broader support systems, the importance of strong disability representative organisations has never been greater. I am confident PWDA will continue to serve as a respected and influential voice, advocating for individuals and systemic change, and collaborating with governments and stakeholders to improve outcomes for its members, the sector and all people with disability.
Although I am stepping back from formal leadership at PWDA, my commitment to disability rights, inclusion and systemic reform remains strong. I look forward to continuing to contribute to our sector and support initiatives that promote choice, control, dignity and opportunity for all Australians with disability.
Thank you for the privilege of leading, representing and serving the community.
The experiences, relationships and lessons I have gained at PWDA will stay with me forever.
Always cherished. Forever grateful.
Jeramy Hope
