Farewell to well respected innovator and champion of people with disability

Dr Guy Hamilton OAM, who revolutionised disability services in Western Australia through more than four decades of dedicated service, has died aged 89.

Disability Services Minister Helen Morton said Dr Hamilton was well regarded by his colleagues and peers and in many ways was considered the father of modern practice in disability services.

Mrs Morton said Dr Hamilton would always be remembered as a visionary.

"It is thanks in large part to Dr Hamilton's determination during the 1960s, 70s and 80s that Western Australia is now a national leader in the field of disability services," she said. 

"In fact he was the first chief executive officer of the Disability Services Commission as we know it."

Dr Hamilton championed a vision of inclusion and participation and oversaw a historic cultural shift that saw people with disabilities reintegrate into the wider community.

"His groundbreaking work in the field made a significant and lasting difference not only to the opportunities available to people with disability, but also to community understanding," the Minister said. 

In 2006, Dr Hamilton was appointed to the Order of Australia for service to people with disabilities, particularly through the development of educational and support services.

In 2007, he received the WA Citizen of the Year Community Service Award for his considerable achievements over the years in transforming community attitudes towards people with disabilities living in this State. 

Minister's office - 9213 7250