ANNE TONKIN (SHE/HER)

About Anne Tonkin

Anne Tonkin is a globally recognised advocate and leader in disability inclusion, driven by an unwavering commitment to social change and equitable access. She is the Winner of the Women Changing the World Awards – Regional APAC 2025 for Disability Inclusion, a recipient of a Global Recognition and Global Women of Influence Awards, a finalist for the Australian Accessibility Awards Hall of Fame 2025, and the Winner of the Enablement Award for Transformative Change in the Disability Sector. Anne has set new global benchmarks through the Tonkin 10/10 Bill, introducing the world’s first community inclusion metrics for the disability sector.

A dedicated lecturer with extensive qualifications, Anne blends her lived experience caring for her husband with rigorous research and academic expertise as author of the Bill and she is also establishing a Foundation. Her work aims to see the Tonkin 10/10 Bill legislated across every Australian jurisdiction and embedded within United Nations and global disability strategies to drive lasting, systemic inclusion.

Celebrating Anne: The impact of her work

“This award affirms that a South Australian woman is leading global and Australian change in the disability sector through the Tonkin 10/10 Bill—the world’s first community inclusion metrics. South Australia is demonstrating innovative, resilient and transformative leadership, shifting the conversation from “reasonable adjustments” to simply inclusion. Anne’s passion is born from pain and heartache, her motivation comes from empathy for all who face the challenges of disability, and her dedication is powered by a love for humanity. This recognition strengthens her commitment to driving meaningful, lasting change for every person who deserves full inclusion—an essential and fundamental human right.”