1 September 2026
We’re thrilled to share a monthly update from the Down Syndrome Advisory Network (DSAN) – a national group of people with Down syndrome who meet fortnightly to build their skills and share their views. This month, we hear from Chris
Hi, my name is Chris and I live in South West Sydney.
I am a gymnast, a gymnastics coach, and an office worker. I am also an actor and participate in filmmaking classes.
This June, I travelled to Bulgaria to compete in gymnastics at the Down Syndrome World Championships. Next month I am heading to Melbourne to complete in nationals.
As a member of the DSAN, I enjoy being involved in the discussion group and working collaboratively with the Advocacy Team on the six advocacy areas. I also enjoy participating in collaborative brainstorming sessions to develop ideas for Voice Magazine.
This month, Alison did some training with us on the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. I learned about my own rights and the rights of others with disabilities. I learned that the convention is a treaty that protects the rights of people with disabilities. We shared our thoughts about rights relating to education and health.
Erin, DSA’s Advocacy and Policy Manager, came and spoke to us about NDIS Plans.
I learned about the recent changes to the NDIS, the new planning framework, and how it can better support people with Down syndrome.
We talked about how NDIS planning can work better for people with Down syndrome. We need clear information about our plans so we can understand our choices and choose the right support.
We also talked about why people with Down syndrome, our families, and DSA need to have a say in how the NDIS works.
Some parts of the NDIS were confusing, especially understanding how the new planning framework would impact our NDIS plans. But it was helpful to learn more about how the NDIS can better support people with Down syndrome.
Nathan, the Editor of Voice Magazine, Asked Us About Possible Themes and Ideas for the Next Voice Magazine.
The theme of Belonging and Relationships is important to us. Through collaboration and group discussions with DSAN and Nathan, we have strong ideas for the next edition of The Voice Magazine.
My ideas for the theme of Belonging and Relationships are to create a “How To” article about why we need face-to-face communication besides online relationships.
Voice is a magazine for people with Down syndrome. It is available online and in print.
Voice covers different topics that are important to all people with Down syndrome, their families, supporters and their community. It includes activities, interviews, stories and tips. This magazine helps people learn new things, share their ideas and their experiences. Plus, it also gives us a chance to share our own stories and have our voices heard.
I enjoyed sharing and collaborating on the themes, ideas and topics with Nathan and other DSAN members.
Christine, the Operations Manager at DSA spoke to us About Working Together Safely and Respectfully.
One thing that stood out to me was what Christine shared about working together safely and respectfully.
I appreciated being reminded that the DSAN rules and Code of Conduct help us listen to and respect each other and ensure everyone has a chance to speak.
I really enjoyed being part of the meetings, discussions and workshops.
I enjoyed sharing my ideas, listening to others and learning from the guest speakers and presenters.
Being part of DSAN has given me a chance to use my voice, share what matters to me and be part of making a difference.
For me, it is about making sure our voices are heard — not just mine, but all of us.
Thank you for reading. Bye! 👋
