At 80 years old, Richard Bruggemann is continuing to make a difference to the lives of people living with an intellectual disability.

Throughout his career, he has provided expert advice to governments on disability services, legislation, inclusion and rights. He is a dedicated volunteer, has sat on more than 20 non-government boards and committees, and is a prolific writer on topics of concern for the disability community.

In 2020, he was called on by the South Australian Government to join the special taskforce investigating the tragic death of cerebral palsy sufferer, Ann Marie Smith.  Richard was also appointed to a new government role to assess the temporary orders to protect people living with a cognitive or mental impairment from the spread of the COVID-19 virus.  His ongoing leadership has helped create a community service system that helps people with intellectual disability and their families enjoy a better quality of life.