The Down Syndrome Advisory Network (DSAN) is a group of people with Down syndrome chosen to work together to provide direct advice to the Down Syndrome Australia Board.
You can also find out a bit more about our members in our recent Voice article which you can download here in PDF format.
Our appointed Down Syndrome Advisory Network members are:
Claire Mitchell, Queensland
Appointed November 2017
Claire is a 35-year-old woman who is passionate about speaking for younger people with Down syndrome. She enjoys public speaking and has been involved in presenting at different organisations and at the University of Queensland. She is involved in a choir, has previously been involved in performance school and enjoys musical theatre. Claire is also very proud to be working part-time as an administrative assistant.
Michael Sullivan, New South Wales
Appointed November 2017
Michael was invited directly as he is the Australian representative for Down Syndrome International (self-advocacy group) and provides an excellent link between our work and work at the international level. He is an experienced and seasoned advocate for people with intellectual disability. He was Chair of NSW Council for Intellectual Disability from 2015–2017. He has previously been on the National Disability Advisory Council in Canberra and is currently on the National Disability Insurance Agency Intellectual Disability Reference Group. Michael is also the Healthy Ageing Ambassador for the UNSW Department of Developmental Disability Neuropsychiatry, and a member of Down Syndrome NSW.
Kylie Scott, New South Wales
Appointed November 2017
Kylie is a 38-year-old woman who has extensive experience in presenting at conferences, schools and training sessions. She is involved in the Sydney Local Health District NDIS Governance Committee. You can see more about Kylie’s work here.
Matt O’Neil, Victoria
Appointed November 2017
Matt is a 22-year-old man who is very active in his community and interested in a range of social issues. He is involved with Club21, e.motion21, and is employed at a local café. He is also heavily involved in sports.
Nick McMahon, South Australia
Appointed November 2017
Nick is a 27-year-old man who is actively involved with Down Syndrome South Australia as part of their dance group and assists with teaching dance. He enjoys being involved and sharing his ideas.
Lauren Murray, ACT
Appointed March 2020
Lauren is from the ACT. She has completed a certificate in Business Studies and computer courses. She has been employed by Koomarri since 2006 and has worked in a number of working roles. She lives independently, attends a gym several times per week and is an active member of the Wizards Bowling League. Lauren has a positive outlook on life and is willing to challenge herself with new situations.
Elise Romaszko, Tasmania
Appointed August 2020
Elise lives in Tasmania. Elise has a positive and enthusiastic approach to work and helping others. She has experience working in a café and as an administrative assistant. She has experience in advocacy and was a member of the Minister for Disability Advisory Committee in Tasmania. She also was on the executive committee for Down Syndrome Association of Tasmania.
Brooke Canham, Western Australia
Appointed August 2020
Brooke is a current Down Syndrome Western Australia Ambassador with excellent insight into the needs of young adults with Down syndrome and has represented DSA at the Governor-General’s House in 2019. As a member of DSAN, Brooke is a tremendous advocate for people with Down syndrome.
