The Department of Human Services (DHS) is calling on South Australians to help steer Government policy by joining one of three new Advisory Councils being established by the Minister for Human Services, Nat Cook.
In a statement, the Department said expressions of interest were now open for membership of the Disability Advisory Council (applications close 19 June); LGBTIQA + Advisory Council (applications also close 19 June); and Youth Advisory Council (applications close 12 June).
DHS said thought leaders and advocates with lived experience from a wide range of backgrounds were strongly encouraged to apply for membership of the Disability Advisory Council, while the LGBTIQA + Advisory Council sought Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex, Queer, Asexual and other sexually, gender and bodily diverse people.
It said the Youth Advisory Council was open to young people from the ages of 12 to 24.
DHS said each of the three new councils would report directly to the Minister, providing strategic advice and ensuring there was a strong voice for people with lived experience to shape Government strategy, policies and legislation.
“Applications are strongly encouraged from South Australians with diverse backgrounds, including regional residents, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds and people of all ages,” it said.
The Minister said the Disability Advisory Council would operate alongside the existing Disability Engagement Group, whose members were welcome to apply for a place on the Council.
“I strongly encourage people from a wide range of backgrounds to apply and bring their experience to the table,” Ms Cook said.
