Activism

Changing the conversation around accessibility. •

Changing the conversation around accessibility. •

Young man with a disability seated in a motorized wheelchair inside a room, smiling, with a window and beige curtains in the background.
A diagram of a DNA double helix structure with colored spherical representations of nucleotide base pairs in pink, purple, green, blue, and white.

Through his speaking and advocacy, Dudley champions a world where assistive technology and accessibility are not afterthoughts, but foundations.

He believes that when we prioritise inclusive design and equal access, we build a society that honours all abilities and supports every person to live a full and vibrant life.

Dudley has been a voice for access, inclusion and change. Here’s how he has changed people’s lives.

A group of diverse people, including a man in a wheelchair smiling, gathered outdoors on a bright day, waving at the camera.
Colorful depiction of the DNA double helix structure with various colored circular bases representing nucleotides.

Early Advocacy: Speaking up for others

At just four years old, while attending Conductive Education School, Dudley was already advocating. With stronger speech than many of his peers, he became a voice for the voiceless, helping to express the needs of fellow students.

Alongside Sister Johanna, he even visited Parliament House to speak with Rob Lucas about funding for the school — proof that even the smallest voices can make the biggest noise.

Transforming schools, one ramp at a time

Dudley’s educational journey was defined by determination — not just to learn, but to make every place he attended more accessible for the next student.

  • Neon purple outlined wheelchair accessibility icon

    At Saint Joseph’s School, Dudley wrote to the Saint Ignatius School Board, leading to the construction of a much-needed ramp to the oval.

  • Outline of a megaphone emitting sound waves, depicted in purple on a black background.

    Dudley’s presence prompted real change at Mt Barker High. Ramps and lifts were installed, doors were widened, a carport was built for taxi drop-offs, and desks were customised to the correct height. These adjustments weren’t just for Dudley — they were for every student who would follow.

  • Outline of a graduation cap in purple with a tassel.

    He later attended Open Access College, Flinders University, and TAFE, continuing to lead by example — showing that inclusive education should be a right, not a request.

Creating change in the community

Dudley’s advocacy expanded far beyond school gates and included:

  • Outline of a washing machine with a top-loading lid in purple.

    Lobbying Mount Barker Council led to the upgrade of local footpaths and the construction of a footbridge in Macclesfield. Dudley was given the honour of officially opening the bridge — a symbol of the literal and metaphorical paths he’s helped create.

  • Purple outline of a traffic light with three circular lights on a black background.

    While at Open Access, Dudley helped drive improvements across Adelaide, including traffic lights installed on Portrush Road, accessibility signage in key public locations, ramps installed at Hilton Shopping Centre, and ramps at nightclubs, making social life more inclusive for wheelchair users.

  • Outline illustration of a classical Greek or Roman temple with columns, depicted in purple.

    Attending a parliamentary forum with disability rights advocate Kelly Vincent, helping to elevate lived experiences to legislative attention.

HEAR MR. DUDLEY SPEAK
  • White quotation marks inside a black circle on a black background.

    “My Life on Wheels sheds light on the everyday realities of living with a disability. Dudley recounts not only his personal successes but also the difficulties he and his family have encountered while overcoming challenges that many people often overlook. By skillfully intertwining personal narratives with practical insights, My Life on Wheels presents an engaging exploration of the lived experiences of those who navigate life differently.”

    – Sue Gibson

  • Black background with large white quotation marks inside a white circle.

    “My Life on Wheels captures the powerful and intense journey of Dudley and his family. Their story demonstrates the strength of the human spirit, of overcoming significant adversities with persistence and positivity, and achieving remarkable results. Essential reading for those who regard the importance of humility, inspiration, courage and humour working together to educate the individual and community.”

    – Janice and Ross (Tutleman)

  • White quotation mark symbol inside a white circle on a black background.

    “Dudley is an inspiration to all he has contact with. Positivity and ability to uplift all who come into contact with him - a ray of sunshine and the brightest star in the sky. Keep on inspiring. Good luck with your venture.”

    – Ann