New Victorian Disability Advisory Council
MEDIA RELEASE 03 August 2022
A new Victorian Disability Advisory Council has been appointed to support the Andrews Labor Government make Victoria a more inclusive and accessible state.
Minister for Disability, Ageing and Carers Colin Brooks said members of the Council shape policies and services by providing independent advice to government about the significant issues impacting Victorians with disability.
The Council has a key role in advising on the implementation of Inclusive Victoria, the state disability plan for 2022-26.
The Labor Government is ensuring its boards and committees reflect the true diversity of the Victorian community, with council members comprising more than fifty per cent women, as well as representatives from Aboriginal, LGBTIQ+, culturally diverse and regional Victorian communities. Young people and carers are also represented.
The following people have been appointed to the Council and will serve a fixed term until July 2025:
Chris Varney (Chairperson)
Mija Gwyn (Deputy Chairperson)
Amanda Lawrie-Jones (re-appointee)
Caitlin Syer (re-appointee)
Gabrielle Hall (re-appointee)
Martin Heng (re-appointee)
Amir Abdi
James Griffiths
Jen Hargrave
Samantha Lilly
Thanh (Akii) Ngo
Laura Pettenuzzo
Diana Piantedosi.
The new appointees bring a wide range of lived experience of disability and expertise in inclusion – including advocacy, policy and program delivery. For more information visit vic.gov.au/victorian-disability-advisory-council
Quotes attributable to Minister for Disability, Ageing and Carers Colin Brooks
“Listening to the experiences of people with disability are a fundamental part of making Victoria the most inclusive and accessible state.”
“I thank the current Council for their strong advocacy which shaped the State Disability Action Plan and the support provided to Victorians with disability in response to the pandemic.”
Quote attributable to Victorian Disability Advisory Council Chair Chris Varney
“I am honoured to lead a diverse group of people passionate about making Victoria a more inclusive place for Victorians with disability.”
