JH

Dr Jane Hickey

Associate Director of Inclusive and Diverse Learning

jane.hickey@saints.vic.edu.au

Jane is a disability advocate with expertise in education, youth and community work. With a Master of Education and a PhD focused on students with hidden disability, she contributes to international research. As a public speaker and workshop facilitator, she champions accessibility, inclusion, and fairness for all.

Jane is a disability advocate with a background working across the education sector, youth work and community services. Jane’s first qualification was a Bachelor of Youth Work, and she has dedicated her career to working alongside young people and their families to advocate for fairness and equity.

Jane’s ongoing commitment to curiosity and lifelong learning saw her complete several other certificates before undertaking her Master of Education. The Master’s qualification then led her to a PhD study where she explored the experiences of students with hidden/invisible disability in Higher Education. These learning opportunities have also enabled Jane to contribute to international research projects in the areas of Youth Work ethics and disability.

Jane is now recognised for her international contributions as a public speaker and workshop facilitator, using storytelling to build connection and remove barriers. Jane recognises the importance of strengths-based approaches, working alongside young people and amplifying the voices of those with a lived experience. Jane’s TEDx talk focuses on the benefits of universal design for the whole community. Throughout her work, Jane continues to champion the rights of young people and is passionate about improving accessibility and inclusion in all areas of life for everyone.