Last week we had the privilege of meeting Senator Jordon Steele-John in Canberra. For both of us, this was more than just a meeting. It was the first time we entered Parliament House not as visitors, but as advocates carrying the voices of the CPActive community.
Sitting across from a Senator who has consistently championed disability rights was an incredible experience. Senator Steele-John already knew who CPActive is and the work we lead within CPA. He listened closely, asked thoughtful questions, and treated our ideas with genuine respect. What stood out most was how focused he was on giving practical advice and real tools to help us strengthen our advocacy.
He shared names of parliamentarians for us to connect with, encouraged us to make a submission to the Disability Discrimination Act review, and emphasised the value of having CPA’s credibility and connections behind us. He was genuinely impressed with the progress we’ve made through the Blaze the Trail campaign, CPActive’s initiative advocating for more inclusive pathways from school to work. He noted that NSW, where we’ve had the most success, is the hardest nut to crack and expressed confidence that we can take the campaign national. At one point he told us we came across like seasoned lobbyists and even assumed we had a full day of meetings in Parliament House. That feedback meant a lot because we had spent hours outside of work and study preparing to represent CPActive effectively.
Most excitingly, he accepted our invitation to join a future Advocate Connect session. Advocate Connect is CPActive’s fortnightly online meeting space where Champions across the country come together to share experiences, support one another, and plan advocacy action. Senator Steele-John also invited WA based Champions to visit his Perth office. It was clear he sees real value in CPActive and believes in what we are building.
Leaving Parliament House that day, we felt proud, energised, and more confident than ever that CPActive has a real place in shaping national conversations on disability. This meeting was about establishing a strong connection with a Senator who understands what disability pride and justice can look like.
For us, this was a milestone. For CPActive, it marks the beginning of an ongoing relationship that can open doors and create real change.
Eleanor and Luther
CPActive Champions
Skye Brien, Luther Hare, Eleanor Dyne, Senator Jordan Steele-John and Kelsie Morley in JSJ’s office.