Physical Disability Australia announces its inaugural Ambassador

Physical Disability Australia (PDA) has proudly announced Dr Dinesh Palipana OAM as the organisation’s
inaugural Ambassador.

Dr Palipana was awarded Australia Day honours last year (2019) earning a medal (OAM) for his service
to medicine.

Palipana is an Australian doctor, legal professional and disability advocate who was the first quadriplegic
medical intern in Queensland, the second Australian with quadriplegia to graduate as a doctor and the
first with a spinal cord injury.

Known for his determination to overcome the personal challenges and negative public perception
associated with physical disability, Palipana is the perfect role model for PDA’s growing membership.

Always keen to take on a new challenge, Dr Palipana is excited to be championing PDA’s values,
activities and mission of empowerment. “I am honoured and so excited to be supporting this
wonderful organisation. I love the work that PDA does. Hopefully I can help inspire others to take on
big challenges and reach their full potential, regardless of their disability.”

PDA’s “Looking beyond physical disability” campaign will launch early in the new year. This new
awareness campaign will work to inspire Australians living with physical disability to unite and promote
the great things those with physical disability can contribute to the workforce, community and society.

PDA is incredibly excited to have Dr Palipana on board, promoting the physical disability needs agenda
and representing the PDA community. Liz Reid, PDA’s President, said “We are absolutely thrilled to
have such an incredible advocate for thinking beyond physical disability. Dinesh embodies everything
we stand for at PDA and we look forward to working with him to show that, with determination and
support, those living with physical disability can achieve amazing things.”

For more information please contact Natasha Nobay at PDA on 0439 202 021 or email at
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