Disability campaigner and advisor named SA Senior Australian of the Year

Posted 3 years ago by Emily Erickson
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Professor Richard Bruggemann has sat on more than 20 non-government boards and committees. [Source: Australian of the Year Awards]
Professor Richard Bruggemann has sat on more than 20 non-government boards and committees. [Source: Australian of the Year Awards]

At 76 years old, Professor Richard Bruggemann is continuing to make a difference to the lives of people living with an intellectual disability.

Throughout his career, he has provided expert advice to governments on disability services, legislation, inclusion and rights. 

He is a dedicated volunteer, has sat on more than 20 non-government boards and committees, including Inclusive Sport SA, and is a prolific writer on topics of concern for the disability community.

This year, he was called on by the South Australian Government to join the special taskforce investigating the tragic death of cerebral palsy sufferer, Ann Marie Smith.

Richard was also appointed to a new government role to assess the temporary orders to protect people living with a cognitive or mental impairment from the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

His ongoing leadership has helped create a community service system that helps people with intellectual disability and their families enjoy a better quality of life.

“On behalf of the Inclusive Sport SA family I would like to offer our congratulations to Richard Bruggemann on receiving this prestigious award,” says Inclusive Sport SA Chief Executive Officer (CEO) John Cranwell.

“Richard’s unwavering dedication and impact on disability advocacy and Inclusive Sport SA over the years is unparalleled and we join in celebrating the recognition this award brings.