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. This helps to increase the inclusion and participation of Victorians with disability.
To fulfil its functions, the council:
- develops an annual forward agenda
- holds meetings every two months
- works with government and the community to promote disability inclusion
- supports the development, implementation and monitoring of Inclusive Victoria: the state disability plan.
The chairperson leads and represents the council. They play a crucial role to:
- facilitate meetings
- manage effective relationships with members and key stakeholders.
The Office for Disability in the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing supports the council.
Current VDAC members
The following people make up the council. They help the Victorian Government continue its important work to make the state more inclusive and accessible.
Council members bring:
- a wide range of lived experience of disability
- expertise in disability inclusion related to advocacy, policy, and program delivery.
The Victorian Government is committed to ensuring that government boards and committees reflect the diversity of the Victorian community. The current council has more than 50% women. It also has representatives who are:
- Aboriginal
- LGBTIQA+
- culturally diverse
- regional Victorians
- young people
- carers.
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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Victorian Disability Advisory Council priorities, action areas and work plan for 2024
The Victorian Disability Advisory Council (VDAC) was established in July 2007 under the Disability Act 2006.
Updated