Monica Cuskelly

Professor Monica Cuskelly is a leading academic and researcher in the field of disability studies and special education at the University of Tasmania. She serves as Director of Research at the Applied Research Centre for Disability and Wellbeing (ARCDW), part of the Faculty of Education under the College of Arts, Law and Education (CALE). Her work focuses on intellectual disability, ageing psychology, and health psychology, with a strong emphasis on policy development and service delivery improvements. Professor Cuskelly has supervised numerous doctoral and masters students, contributing to research on topics such as inclusive education, disability policy implementation, and the social experiences of individuals with disabilities.

Her research portfolio includes over 170 publications, with recent work addressing restrictive practices in disability care, maternal stress factors, and the impact of sibling relationships on developmental outcomes in children with disabilities. She has secured significant funding for projects such as the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) impact analysis, interventions for psychotropic medication reduction, and curriculum adjustments for students with intellectual disabilities. Notably, her work explores the intersections of policy, practice, and lived experiences to advance equitable outcomes for marginalized populations.

Professor Cuskelly’s contributions extend to collaborative initiatives like the Australia-ASEAN Academics Forum and evaluations of early intervention programs for children with cerebral palsy. Her leadership in the ARCDW drives applied research aimed at improving quality of life for people with developmental, intellectual, or cognitive disabilities. Current projects investigate loneliness reduction strategies, criminal justice system supports for individuals with disabilities, and the role of siblings in developmental trajectories.

Her academic career spans decades, with grants dating back to the 1990s, reflecting her sustained commitment to advancing disability research. She actively engages in policy discussions, serving as a conduit between academic findings and real-world applications. Professor Cuskelly’s interdisciplinary approach combines psychological insights with educational and healthcare perspectives, making her a pivotal figure in disability advocacy and research.