When Jordan Steele-John was appointed to the Australian Senate in 2017, he made history not once, but twice. At just 22 years old, he became the youngest person to serve in the Senate. But perhaps most significantly, he also became Australia’s first disabled senator, proudly using his platform to advocate for disability rights, youth representation, and a sustainable future.
This article takes a closer look at Senator Jordan Steele-John’s inspiring career, his advocacy work, and how he’s helped shape conversations around some of Australia’s most pressing issues.
A Unique Path to Politics
Born in Northampton, England, in 1994, Jordan moved to Australia as a child and later pursued a Bachelor’s degree in politics and history at Macquarie University. His political career, however, wasn’t something he had planned.
“I’m not your typical senator,” Jordan likes to say. His entry into politics came unexpectedly in 2017 when he filled the seat of Greens Senator Scott Ludlam following Ludlam’s resignation. At the time, Jordan was third on the Greens’ Western Australia Senate ticket, working on community campaigns for better futures.
The sudden entry into federal politics saw Jordan’s life change almost overnight. His studies were put on hold, but his passion for driving meaningful change pushed him to adapt quickly, stepping into the role with determination.
Advocacy for Disability Rights
Jordan’s lived experience as a person with cerebral palsy, and a wheelchair user, has been instrumental in shaping his political voice. He has championed causes that improve the lives of Australians with disabilities, including being a strong advocate for better accessibility, resources, and understanding around disability.
One of his earliest calls to action was for a Royal Commission into the abuse of disabled prisoners. His relentless campaigning in 2018 sparked nationwide discussions and highlighted systemic issues that demanded immediate attention. By 2019, the Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation of People with Disability was established, marking a significant milestone in disability advocacy.
Jordan’s achievements also include securing amendments to ensure confidential statements made to the commission remained protected. He has continually pressured the government to improve the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), working to abolish independent assessments and campaigning for increased support payments for carers and people with disabilities.
“Being a young person with a disability in contemporary Australia means confronting some of society’s most ingrained myths,” Jordan explains. “I’ve worked tirelessly to break these myths and be a strong voice in Parliament.”
Expanding Advocacy Beyond Disability
While disability rights remain central to Jordan’s work, his advocacy spans far beyond this. He has been actively involved in the youth climate movement, raising awareness about the urgency of addressing climate change.
Jordan has also taken on roles that allow him to advocate for broader health and wellbeing policies. Appointed as the Australian Greens’ Health and Mental Health portfolio lead in 2021, Jordan announced initiatives such as expanding Medicare to include comprehensive mental health supports. His progressive approach underscores how fundamental access to healthcare is in creating safe, thriving communities.
Recognising the Intersection
Jordan often emphasises the intersectionality between the issues he champions. For example, when speaking about climate change, he weaves it into the larger discussion of systemic inequalities, including how environmental challenges disproportionately affect marginalised groups.
Likewise, his health and mental health advocacy touches on systemic gaps in care and support for those living with disabilities, striving to ensure no one is left behind.
Highlights From His Career
Jordan’s political career has been marked by numerous achievements, many of which reflect his commitment to making Australia more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable. Some key highlights include:
- Youth Leadership Recognition: Named One Young World Global Youth Politician of the Year in 2018 and awarded the McKinnon Prize for Emerging Political Leadership in 2019.
- Disability Rights Wins: Campaigning for and helping establish the Royal Commission into the abuse of disabled persons.
- Justice for Survivors: Advocating for a compensation scheme for thalidomide survivors, ensuring their stories and challenges were met with proper support in 2020.
- Healthcare Improvements: Working to expand Medicare to cover mental health treatments, a bold step towards accessible care for all Australians.
Changing the Face of Politics
Jordan Steele-John’s presence in the Senate has broken barriers, transforming the public perception of what leadership looks like. His determination to use his platform for good has not only changed policies but also inspired Australians from all walks of life, particularly young people and those living with disabilities.
When asked about his vision for the future, Jordan remains optimistic, believing that progress is always possible. “We have values like mateship and support at the core of our identity as Australians. If we truly lean into that, we can achieve incredible change,” he says.
A Lasting Impact
Jordan Steele-John’s story is one of defiance, determination, and hope. He has shown that with passion and persistence, anyone can help shape a brighter future—not just for themselves, but for generations to come.
For more about Senator Steele-John’s work, visit the Australian Greens website.
Inspired by Jordan’s advocacy? Learn more about opportunities to make a difference in your community through Healthcare Australia. Contact us today to explore careers that align with your values.
