Catherine Douglas

I have been an acting EL1 in a fast paced policy reform space. I have worked independently and collaboratively in a team environment to design, implement and integrate foundational supports in the NDIS and the broader disability ecosystem, including the design of new navigation supports. My experience includes:

• Strong analytical, legal and policy skills
• Project management experience
• Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations
• Working within tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Strong organisational and time management skills while managing multiple projects.
• Working independently and in a team setting, providing support and guidance.

I worked in the Scheme Design Team on the transitional NDIS section 10 rule and access and eligibility reassessment policy development. I was the lead project manager for the Supported Decision Making Hub on the Disability Gateway, launched in January 2025. This role involved:

• Managing complex situations involving multi-agency coordination, ensuring smooth collaboration for optimal outcomes.
• Utilising my legal and policy skills to help implement legislative reform.

I was responsible for handling complaints within the NDIS. As part of this role, I liaised with participants, providers and members of the public, and resolved a diverse range of issues. This role allowed me to see emerging patterns, trends and policy issues, and provide staff feedback when a process was mishandled.

• I oversaw Cabinet submissions from the Department for Environment and Water, and the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development. I assisted departmental officers to get the submission ready for Cabinet, and provided high level analysis for Cabinet Ministers.
• I liaised with government agencies including the Department of Treasury and Finance, and external partners to align policies with broader initiatives.

I was responsible for researching, drafting, editing and proofing legal submissions for Mark Douglas, an Adelaide based barrister.

I edited Supreme Court judgments for the now retired Justice Tom Gray.

I worked at the tribunal in various roles, ranging from Associate to the members to a client service officer. I was variously responsible for researching, writing and proofing legal judgments, dealing with public inquiries and administrative issues.