In a remarkable testament to resilience and community support, David Deitz, principal of Smith’s Hill High School in Dharawal Country, is back at the helm after facing significant personal challenges.

Following a high-level spinal cord injury sustained during a cycling event in 2023, Mr Deitz’s journey to return to school leadership was marked by both obstacles and triumphs.

But with the unwavering support of his school community and accessibility upgrades to the school – including the automation of his office door and school gate, as well as renovations to bathrooms and doorways – Mr Deitz resumed his role at the start of the 2025 school year.

This week, the department is hosting its third annual Disability Recognition Week (12–16 May), providing staff with an important opportunity to celebrate, recognise and better understand the experiences of colleagues living with disability.

The week coincides with today’s Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD), where Mr Deitz and staff with disability shared their honest insights and advice on creating inclusive environments.

“Living with an acquired disability has reminded me of the power of perspective,” Mr Deitz said.

“The phrase ‘comparison is the thief of joy’ has always resonated deeply with me, and it’s something we talk to students about in relation to measuring their success against others.

“My focus now is on my new capabilities and finding joy in the contributions I can still make within and beyond the school setting,” he said.

Acting Deputy Secretary and co-Executive sponsor of the department’s Disability Employee Network (DEN), Lisa Harrington, emphasised the importance of seeking out the advice of students and staff with disability, ensuring they are at the centre of making decisions that affect them.

"We are stronger because of our diversity, and Disability Recognition Week offers a chance for us all to consider how we can build our collective knowledge and foster greater inclusion,” Ms Harrington said

“David’s leadership is an inspiration to all, showcasing the strength of our people and the importance of embracing new perspectives.

“We have more to do to support all our colleagues thrive in the workplace and I appreciate David’s feedback to date that communication is critical, and we shouldn’t make assumptions about what people need – we need to listen.

“In the 2024 People Matter Employee Survey, more than 6 per cent of our workforce identified as living with disability.

“The aim is to increase this number through greater representation across our schools and workplaces and by encouraging existing staff to safely share their lived experiences,” she said.