Diana Stephens

Diana started her career working directly with communities in Western NSW, helping local groups secure grants, in-kind support and backing from the people who matter most, the community itself.

Working at the grassroots level shaped her strong belief that real, lasting change in regional areas needs to be led by regional people. From there, she built on her experience across education, disability, and contract roles with the Department of Education and Ageing, Disability & Homecare.

Today, Diana works as a Research Governance Officer with the Mid North Coast Local Health District, where she reviews research submissions with a strong focus on quality, improvement and making sure projects genuinely benefit local communities.

Diana brings experience in community development, grants, policy, ethics and governance, alongside hands-on disability support work. She has also been recognised by the Office for Health & Medical Research for her outstanding support of researchers and commitment to great service.