Jim was awarded an Order of Australia Medal on the Queen’s Birthday 12th June 2006
“For service to people with disabilities as an advocate, through raising public awareness and promoting the benefits of integrated education in the community.”
Jim has lived with Cerebral Palsy all his life
Jim is the Manager of the Abilities and Disability Awareness Program, Victorian Department of Education and Training since 1988. He pioneered the program in 1988; Has since delivered over 4,300 workshops and spoken to over 130,000 people.
Jim goes to schools and inspires children and the school community
The aim of his program is to make all people aware of what they can do, not what they can’t do and to promote inclusion in schools and society
Jim is a powerful Role Model to many students
He inspires people with what he has achieved and what they too can achieve.
Why Jim was awarded an OAM
Role model awards created
- “Jim Asimakopoulos Annual Role Model Award” – Pakenham Hills Primary School
- “Jim Asimakopoulos Encouragement Award” – Seymour Primary School
- “Jim Asimakopoulos Award” for Leadership – Wantirna College
Author
“Jim Has Overcome His Disability” Education Resource 2004
Jim has presented over 4,300 talks
- From the classroom Jim demonstrates to the students all the positive things he can achieve with his disability
- “Cerebral Palsy affects the way my muscles move but I am strong and healthy”
- “I can think, feel and move around on my own. I have a job, I am married to my wife Connie and have three step children.”
- During the 1990’s Jim attended Victoria University where he gained a Certificate IV in Workplace Training and Assessment.
- Jim, who spends a lot of time in his wheelchair, demonstrates his skill both in and out of his chair.
- Jim shows the students how he plays footy and how he moves around independently on his hands and knees
- “I am a sports fanatic” he says.
- “There are hundreds of things I CAN do and I don’t dwell on the things I can’t do”
- Students find Jim’s visits to be totally inspirational.
- Jim has the ability to reach people on a very deep level
- Jim’s visits can broaden understanding, proving that whatever the disability, everyone has the ability
- “When you meet a person with a disability, ask them what they CAN do, not what’s wrong with them.
- “People with disabilities are people with abilities”
Jim’s historical achievements
- Mr Asimakopoulos has served as a spokesperson representing people with disabilities for the past 25 years.
- He has been a member of over 20 management committees for disability and community organisations since the early 1980’s.
- Vice President, Broad Insight Group, since 2002; Committee Member since 1997 (early intervention support group for children with a disability).
- Disability Awareness Officer, Richmond City Council, 1987 – 1988.
- Disability Awareness Officer, ADEC (Action on Disability In Ethnic Communities) 1985
Community awards
- Centenary of Federation Medal, 2001.
- Pride of Workmanship Award, Rotary Club of Keilor East, 1998; Shine On Award.
- Tattersall’s Enterprise and Achievement Award, 1997.
Order of Australia Medal
- “I want to take this opportunity to thank all the schools and community groups I have been involved with since 1988. I feel humbled and honoured by this award.”