Virginia is the Founder and Principal Consultant at Universal Design Consulting. 

With extensive experience in community consultation and engagement for universal design, she specialises in project management, policy development, content creation and group facilitation. 

Virginia founded the Local Government Universal Design Network (LGUDN) in 2020, now a thriving community of practice across Australia and New Zealand. Previously, she worked as a Disability Inclusion Officer for over a decade, collaborating on inclusive policies and programs. 

In 2022, she established her consulting firm to help organisations create more welcoming and inclusive environments. Virginia's vision is a world where everyone feels a sense of belonging. 

Adam Johnson is a passionate advocate for disability access and inclusion in regional Australia. 

In 2019 he completed a PhD researching the role of local government in facilitating accessible communities, with a specific focus on design safeguards such as co-design and policy measures. 

Adam draws on his wealth of professional and research experience to guide discussion on identifying what local governments are already doing well, and what short and long-term improvements can be made to embed universal design safeguards and culture within the organisation. 

Adam is collaborating with Virginia to develop and deliver our Universal Design Training modules.

With extensive experience across architecture, planning and sustainability, Mary Ann has spent several decades improving the accessibility of buildings, neighbourhoods and public spaces.

An Accredited Access Consultant (ACAA) and Fellow of the Australian Institute of Architects, Mary Ann brings specialist expertise in access auditing, policy development, inclusive design and technical standards. She is currently completing a PhD at Swinburne University focused on improving built environment accessibility systems through human-centred approaches.

Mary Ann has advised government, universities, NGOs and international development agencies, and has contributed to multiple design review panels and advisory committees. She is recognised for her evidence-based practice and dedication to creating environments that support equity, dignity and participation for all.