CQUniversity Chancellor appointed Chair of National Disability Insurance Agency
CQUniversity Chancellor Mr Graeme Innes AM has been appointed Chair of the Australian Government’s National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) Board, recognising his decades of leadership and advocacy for the rights of people with disability.
Announced by the Australian Government on October 28, the appointment will see Mr Innes take up the role on 17 December 2026 for a three-year term.
A lawyer, author and company director, Mr Innes served as Australia’s Disability Discrimination Commissioner for nine years and has more than 30 years’ experience as a human rights practitioner. He has played a significant role in advancing disability rights and accessibility in Australia and internationally.
CQUniversity Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Nick Klomp congratulated Mr Innes on the appointment, describing it as a testament to his expertise, leadership and longstanding commitment to inclusion.
“Graeme is an outstanding advocate for people with disability, and this appointment recognises the depth of experience and commitment he brings to improving outcomes for people across Australia,” Professor Klomp said.
“His leadership as CQUniversity Chancellor has been invaluable to our University community. His commitment to equity, accessibility and creating opportunities for people from all backgrounds aligns strongly with our vision of being Australia's most accessible and supportive university.
“We are incredibly proud to see Graeme take on this important national role and wish him every success as he leads the NDIA Board through its next chapter.”
Mr Innes said he was honoured to accept the appointment and looked forward to working collaboratively with people with disability, their families, the sector and Government.
“CQUniversity is committed to ensuring people with disability can access education, participate fully in university life and achieve their aspirations,” Mr Innes said.
“As Chancellor, I am proud to support that commitment. In my new role with the NDIA, my priority will be to uphold the rights of NDIS participants and help ensure the scheme delivers meaningful, sustainable outcomes.
“I look forward to bringing my experience in human rights, governance and disability advocacy to this important work.”
Mr Innes has been CQUniversity’s Chancellor since December 2022.
He has also held senior roles in disability rights and advocacy, including leading work on accessible buildings and public transport, and contributing to the development of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
His appointment reinforces the importance of inclusive leadership and the ongoing work required to ensure people with disability can participate fully in education, employment and community life.
