Simone Garrad

Simone joined the Board bringing extensive experience in people, culture and organisational development, with more than 20 years’ experience partnering with organisations to build strong workplaces, effective leaders and positive employee experiences.

Simone is Co-Founder and Director of Nine Yards, a people and culture consultancy focused on creating great people experiences for today and tomorrow. Throughout her career she has held senior people and culture roles across a range of large and purpose-led organisations leading initiatives in change management, culture transformation, employee engagement and organisational effectiveness.

She holds a Master of Human Resources from Monash University and a Bachelor of Applied Science (Psychology) from Deakin University. Simone brings strong capability in, workforce strategy, leadership development and building healthy, values-driven cultures that enable both people and organisations to thrive.

Simone also brings important lived experience to the Board, with a close family member accessing supports and services through the NDIS. This perspective provides her with a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by participants and families navigating the disability service system, and strengthens her commitment to advocacy, inclusion and ensuring people who may not always have a strong voice are heard.

She is passionate about supporting organisations that create meaningful opportunities for people with disability to build independence, skills and community connection.