Sue O'Reilly has cared for her son, who is severely disabled with cerebral palsy, since his birth 21 years ago. In addition, she has constantly been involved in campaigning for a better deal from governments for families in similar situations.
Member for Davidson, Jonathan O'Dea said, "Although Sue O'Reilly did not win the ultimate award at last night's ceremony in Parliament House, I was pleased to have nominated her for the prestigious NSW Woman of The Year Award. Sue has looked beyond her own circumstances to help others facing similar challenges."
Sue has used her journalistic background and contacts to campaign for fundamental reforms to Australia's disability and support system. A passionate supporter of the proposed National Disability Insurance Scheme, Sue wrote the first in-depth piece to be published in the media about this proposal, titled "The Struggle for Care".
In memory of her late husband Sue established the "Fighting Chance Fund" to help people with disabilities and their families pay for vital therapy services and to date this fund has raised and distributed over $150,000 to children and adults with disabilities.
Along with Fiona Porter from Brisbane, Sue co-founded the national grassroots political lobby group, "Australians Mad as Hell" in an effort to harness the voting power of several million voters with disabilities, their families and carers.
Mr O'Dea said, "Last year, Sue O'Reilly was the chief organiser of a sell-out political rally and concert in Sydney called, "Disability Rocks". It is one of many examples of how Sue's work has clearly inspired and motivated others to raise awareness of the challenges facing those with disabilities and those who care for them.
"I congratulate Sue for all she has already accomplished and continues to undertake for those with a disability and for those who often sacrifice much in the care of others.
"Her nomination as NSW Woman of The Year is most appropriate, given her outstanding work in one of the most deserving sectors of our community," Mr O'Dea concluded.
