About the Victorian Disability Advisory Council
The Victorian Disability Advisory Council (VDAC) was established in July 2007 under the Disability Act 2006.
The Council provides independent policy and strategy advice to the Minister for Disability, Ageing and Carers to increase the inclusion and participation of people with disability in the Victorian community.
To fulfil its functions, the Council formulates an annual forward agenda and holds bi-monthly meetings.
The Council also works with government and the community to promote disability inclusion, particularly through supporting the development, implementation and monitoring of Inclusive Victoria: the state disability plan.
The Chairperson leads and represents the Council and plays a crucial role in facilitating meetings and managing effective relationships with members and key stakeholders.
The Council is supported by the Office for Disability, which is located within the Disability and Communities Branch of the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing.
Current VDAC members
The following people he been appointed to the Council to help the Victorian Government continue its important work making the state more inclusive and accessible.
Council members bring a wide range of lived experience of disability and expertise in disability inclusion related advocacy, policy, and program delivery.
In line with the Victorian Government commitment to ensuring that government boards and committees reflect the diversity of the Victorian community, the new Council comprises more than fifty per cent women as well as representatives from Aboriginal, LGBTIQ+, culturally diverse and regional Victorians. Young people and carers are also represented.
This Council will serve a fixed term until July 2025:
Chris Varney (Chairperson)
Mija Gwyn (Deputy Chairperson)
Akii Ngo
Amanda Lawrie-Jones (re-appointee)
Amir Brand-Abdi
Caitlin Syer (re-appointee)
Diana Piantedosi
Gabrielle Hall (re-appointee)
James Griffiths
Jen Hargrave
Laura Pettenuzzo
Martin Heng (re-appointee)
Samantha Lilly
Disability Pride
More information
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