The late Emeritus Professor Joseph Henry Graffam AM MAPS has been posthumously recognised as an (Honorary) Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for his significant contributions to tertiary education and social welfare. Professor Graffam was a long-serving Board Director and Chair of WISE Employment, a role he held for three decades until his passing in July 2023. His leadership and research played a pivotal role in shaping employment services for people with disabilities and ex-offenders, leading to lasting policy and program changes.
His pioneering research on disability employment and ex-offender reintegration influenced national policy, particularly in shaping wage subsidy programs that encourage employers to hire people with disabilities. His work also played a key role in WISE Employment securing the first-ever federal government contract for a specialist ex-offender employment program in 2006—an initiative that continues to provide support today.
WISE Employment Group CEO, Matt Lambelle, reflected on Joe’s impact: “Joe was more than a leader—he was a visionary, deeply passionate about social justice and ensuring people from all walks of life had the opportunity to thrive. His work in disability employment and reintegration services continues to influence policy and practice across Australia.”
WISE Employment Chair, Patsy Toop, also paid tribute to his dedication: “Joe’s commitment to WISE spanned more than three decades, helping to grow a small not-for-profit into a national organisation supporting tens of thousands of jobseekers each year. His wisdom, compassion, and tireless advocacy will be deeply missed, but his impact will be felt for generations to come.”
Professor Graffam’s legacy lives on through the many people he championed, the research he conducted, and the policies he helped shape. His posthumous recognition as an AM is a fitting tribute to a life dedicated to creating opportunities for others.
Emeritus Professor Joseph Graffam AM