Kirsten has more than 17 years of experience in the disability sector and a background in research, policy, advocacy, campaigning and communications. Kirsten contributes lived experience, passion, commitment and resilience to driving disability policy and practice change, underpinned by a deep commitment to co-design to her current position as Deputy Director of the Melbourne Disability Institute at the University of Melbourne.

As a strategic and dedicated leader, Kirsten has been a powerful advocate through Every Australian Counts (EAC), the grassroots campaign that fought successfully for the introduction of the NDIS. With her ability to bring people together and her clear communication skills, Kirsten played a critical role in building political and public support for this world-leading reform. Since then, she has continued to push for the NDIS to achieve its original vision.

Kirsten has also worked as an executive director at the National Disability Insurance Agency and served on numerous ministerial councils and advisory committees, including Co-Chair and Deputy Chair of the National People with Disability and Carer Council.

Kirsten has been an incredibly effective change agent, from her work authoring the influential Shut Out Report to leading EAC. She has played an important role in disability reform over many years