Research, Education and Programs

Bec Thompson

Manager Wellbeing

Bec Thompson

Bec is highly motivated by the good things in life and is inspired to work with people to help them flourish. She believes that independence, social participation and wellbeing hold the key to promoting a good life.

Bec has over 20 years’ experience in the disability sector working in not-for-profit, independent schools, government and private sectors. As a young backpacker, Bec spent time as a live-in attendant carer which cemented her passion for helping people with a disability and their families.

She holds a Master’s degree in Psychology, postgraduate qualifications in Human Resource Management and Industrial Relations and an Arts degree (majoring in Art History and Psychology).

Bec’s love of lifelong learning, reading and live music as well as long rambles in the hills with her beloved dog keeps her well balanced. She also enjoys family time with her wine maker husband and two teenage daughters.

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Sharon Haylen

Senior Service Planner

Sharon Haylen

Sharon is passionate about participants having a high quality of life, maximum independence and control over the decisions that affect their lives. She really enjoys working with participants and supporting them as they work towards achieving their goals.

She has over 20 years’ experience as a Social Worker in the disability field and has specific interests in social justice, human rights and Aboriginal culture. Sharon has qualifications in Social Work, family therapy, Indigenous studies and management.

In her spare time, Sharon enjoys bushwalking, playing with her dogs and woodworking in her shed. Prior to becoming a Social Worker, Sharon was a professional musician and she still enjoys listening to music and going to concerts or the opera.

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Julie O’Dea

Senior Service Planner

Julie O’Dea

Julie is rewarded by being involved in the journey with participants at the LSA who have experienced a life changing trauma. Stories of strength, courage and survival continue to inspire her.

Having worked in the disability field for almost 15 years, Julie is highly experienced in working with children and youth from diverse backgrounds and is particularly interested in Aboriginal culture.

She holds an honours degree in Social Work from the University of South Australia. Her honours research focused on infant mental health.

Julie loves getting back to nature by regularly trekking in the Adelaide Hills and is passionate about the environment. She contributes to sustainability through composting and organic gardening, and enjoys her backyard chooks and bees. She is also a novice ballroom dancer.

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Tricia Cahill

Director, Organisational Performance

Tricia Cahill – Director, Organisational Performance

Tricia’s passion for working with people to build capability, drive change and deliver the best experience has led her to the Lifetime Support Authority. She’ll oversee the people strategy including programs and initiatives that help staff to connect to the LSA’s vision, purpose and objectives.

With 15 years’ experience in people and culture, Tricia understands the staff experience and how people strategies, systems, processes and interactions influence culture, engagement and results.

Tricia’s qualifications include a Bachelor International Business, a Diploma of Management, and a Certificate IV in Training & Assessment.

She values giving back and being surrounded by people who are passionate about making a difference. In her spare time, she enjoys good food, overseas travel and family time with her twins.

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Sorana Dinmore

Director, Corporate

Sorana Dinmore – Director, Corporate

As a member of the LSA’s inaugural leadership team, Sorana has been instrumental in the trajectory of the Lifetime Support Authority. She values the LSA’s person-centred philosophy and the mobile, flexible model of service delivery that is committed to positive outcomes for the participants.

With over twenty years’ experience in the public and private sectors, Sorana has particular interests in organisational change, governance, legal and technological advances to shape innovation.

Sorana is on the Board of the Attendant Care Industry Association, the Intellectual Disability Accommodation Association, Summit Health and HerTechPath.

She is a passionate lifelong learner whose academic qualifications include a combined law and international studies degree, a Master of Business Administration, and she is a Master of Finance candidate.

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Shaun Whitbread

PRG Member

Shaun sustained spinal cord injuries, an above-knee amputation of his left leg and a mild brain injury in a motor vehicle accident in October 2015.

He was able to drive again within a year of his accident, which was a major personal goal. He has recently been able to stand and take a few steps with the assistance of a walking frame, prosthesis and right knee and ankle brace. He’s focused on maintaining his upper body strength, returning to paid employment and increasing his caring role and interactions with his children.

Through the LSS, Shaun has been provided with service planning to maximise his recovery and rehabilitation including physiotherapy, occupational therapy and medical treatment. His car has been modified and hand controls have been installed.

“The LSA has supported me through everything. Sometimes you get down and without their support, I don’t know where I’d be, to be honest.”

Shaun joined the PRG to share his story, and to contribute ideas and feedback on issues that future participants may face.

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Kerry Cross

PRG Member

Kerry sustained a brain injury in an accident, which affects her memory. She receives ongoing pain management support and battles fatigue. Through the Scheme, she also has neuropsychology and physiotherapy sessions, and has domestic assistance and ongoing rehabilitation to allow her to live independently.

Kerry’s aim is to do as much as she can for herself and has started driving again. Among her goals are getting back to work and being more involved with her family. She’s doing a memory course and relies on a lot of reminders to help her recall.

“The LSA has been an amazing support and have helped me with my goals and assisted me with everything to do with my daily life. It’s made life easier by coordinating all my treatment, care and support needs.”

“I became involved in the PRG to gain more information for myself and other participants. I would like to help participants with a similar injury and provide feedback to the LSA and review practices going forward.”

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Sally Fox

PRG Member

Sally is the mother of one of the youngest LSS participants. Her daughter Madi was nine when she was hit by a car while walking her dog in July 2015.

Madi sustained a traumatic brain injury but made significant progress during her rehabilitation. She was able to walk with the aid of a walker when discharged and her positive progress has continued through therapy to improve her speech and cognition. Madi is back at school nearly full-time. She plays in an inclusive basketball team and attends riding for the disabled each week.

Through the LSS, they have been provided support, including intensive rehabilitation through Novita Children’s Services Brain Injury team, attendant care services, equipment and home modifications to support her independence at home and in the community.

Sally says the entire family has benefited from the support from the LSA.

“We’ve been able to focus almost solely on Madi’s rehabilitation without the added financial or overwhelming stress of working out where to go for what services.”

“I became involved in the PRG because I thought it was an excellent opportunity to “give back” and provide valuable feedback from first-hand experience. It’s an opportunity to indirectly support those families coming through LSA behind us and making this very hard time in their lives just a little less stressful.”

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Jayden ‘Donny’ Schultz

PRG Member

Donny has a C3/4 Tetraplegic injury from a motor vehicle accident and has made good progress through some challenging times. He’s spent time learning to accept his injury and is physically feeling good.

He’s received support through the Scheme for physical therapy and rehabilitation, domestic assistance, vehicle modification, equipment and hand therapy.

Donny has been able to regain his passion in creating quality artwork and is currently working towards his goal of attending university through a bridging course. He has also recently started sharing a house with friends, is determined to use a manual wheelchair under his own steam, and would like to start coaching football.

Donny appreciates the relationship he has with his Service Planner.

“The LSA have been there for me and have been a 100% supportive. My Service Planner is always there when I need her and listens to me if I have any concerns.”

Donny is involved in the PRG because he thinks it’s important to have input from a younger person and is keen to give his opinion and perspective. He wants to support participants who have a similar injury or experience.

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Rachael Norde

PRG Member

In January 2016, Rachael’s husband Peter and their son were involved in a serious motor vehicle accident which left Peter an incomplete quadriplegic.

The progress Peter made in rehabilitation has continued since he returned home. He’s back at work and is driving a modified vehicle. Peter continues a range of therapies each week, including the local hydrotherapy pool and is now walking with crutches. Rachael works full time and is also Peter’s full-time carer.

They’ve been able to access home and vehicle modifications through the LSS, as well as tools and equipment to manage their small farm.

“The LSA has provided us peace of mind during a traumatic and unknown time. They were supportive, knowledgeable and approachable and we could focus on family and rehabilitation while they helped manage the treatment, care and support. Their knowledge of the available options was invaluable.”

Rachael became involved in the PRG to learn more about the scheme and to share her experiences with others (who access the Scheme).

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Jason Carrello

PRG Member

Jason sustained a Right Brachial Plexus Injury in a motor vehicle accident.

Along with occupational and physiotherapy, he’s been provided with equipment and receives domestic, medical and pharmaceutical support through the LSS.

Jason is feeling positive about his steady progress, and his ongoing physical therapy, gym and exercise and remedial massage are helping him towards his goal to get more involved with sport and recreation activities he enjoys.

Jason wants to help other participants on their journey with the Scheme and likes being able to contribute in a positive way.

“I joined the PRG to have a voice and give my opinion, because I like to be involved.”

“I’ve been able to fall back on the LSA for help and being in the scheme has guided me through this difficult period. The LSA have been supportive, working with a service planner to help find suitable treatments for my injury and delivering the best results possible.”

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Caitlin Murray

Participant Support Officer

Caitlin Murray

Caitlin loves knowing that her work helps relieve the daily pressures that our participants face. She is passionate about the person centred approach that LSA pride themselves on and loves seeing the incredible progress each participants makes after their motor vehicle accident.

Caitlin is currently studying a Bachelor of Psychology at Flinders University and has completed numerous disability subjects and placements which has strengthened her passion to positively contribute to the growing area of allied health, and her knowledge in regards to the NDIS, brain injury and person centeredness.

When Caitlin is not working she loves travelling, spending time with family and friends and being outdoors.

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Karen Zilm

Participant Support Officer

Karen Zilm

Karen is passionate about providing LSS participants and their families with the assistance they need to work towards and reach their goals. She enjoys being part of the LSA team with the person centred support that the LSA provides to assist participants.

Karen has a Bachelor of Applied Science (Disability Studies) and has worked in the disability sector for over 20 years within a variety of roles and service types.

Karen enjoys spending time with her family and friends when she is not working. She is a keen traveller and hopes to travel again in the near future.

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Sylvia Reynolds

Participant Support Officer

Sylvia Reynolds

Sylvia is passionate about supporting participants to achieve their goals and develop new ones. She is inspired by the strength and resilience of LSS participants and their families.

Sylvia enjoys working with the participants and learning how best to support their needs. She completed her Certificate III in Community Services and looks forward to undertaking further study in the Social and Community Services sector.

Sylvia also brings knowledge and experience from a cultural perspective as she is an Aboriginal woman who is passionate about connection to culture.

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Jake Gilbertson

Service Planner

Jake Gilbertson

Jake enjoys working with our talented team at LSA and the external team of service providers to make positive contributions to the lives of our participants. He believes that it is a privilege to be working for an organisation that supports the wellbeing of others and the community.

Jake has more than 15 years’ experience as a physiotherapist. He has extensive clinical and commercial experience working as a community physiotherapist, both locally and internationally, specialising in rehabilitation aimed at promoting people’s independence in their own homes.

In Jake’s spare time he enjoys a range of activities, including socialising, music, home improvements, and getting outdoors.

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Francine Musolino

Service Planner

Francine Musolino

Francine loves working with people and is passionate about a holistic and person centred approach to health and wellbeing.

Francine has a background in podiatry (15 years) and has worked in all areas of the discipline, from paediatrics through to geriatric care, and in a broad range of areas including spinal cord injury, amputations, trauma and complex care. She has also worked within the pharmaceutical industry in health promotion working closely with medical specialists within this field.

When Francine is not working she loves to spend time with her family and friends, enjoying time outdoors including nature walks and bike rides.

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Stacey Quaini

Service Planner

Stacey Quaini

Stacy enjoys helping people and their families who have been impacted by serious injuries, to live fulfilling lives and to empower them to be informed and actively involved in their care.

Stacey is an occupational therapist and her career has been at Disability SA supporting adults with serious and multiple disabilities in residential and community settings. She has extensive experience working with people with acquired brain injuries, spinal cord injuries and progressive neurological disorders. She also has a particular interest in upper limb function as she believes that it has a huge impact on people’s day to day activities.

When Stacey is not working she enjoys going to Wallaroo with her family, drinking multiple coffees a day and she has just recently become a yogi.

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Hannah Owen

Quality and Policy Officer

Hannah Owen

Hannah is enthusiastic about working at the LSA and passionate about supporting individuals to achieve their full potential and optimise their quality of life.

Hannah is a physiotherapist by background, with experience working in the aged care sector as a member of the Transitional Care Team at Domiciliary Care and the disability sector at ASSIST Therapy Services. Throughout her career she has developed a particular interest in optimising clinical practice, efficiencies and outcomes, an interest she intends to pursue as Quality and Policy Officer.

When Hannah is not working she enjoys spending time with her family and friends. She also enjoys skiing and hopes to soon travel through Europe, exploring the Alps along the way.

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Paul Kelly

Senior Service Planner

Paul Kelly

Paul is passionate about assisting people to regain independence and autonomy in whatever aspects of life that are most important to them. His main passion is working with people post spinal cord injury and amputation.

Paul has been an occupational therapist for 14 years having worked in Northern Ireland (where he is from), England and now Australia. This includes inpatient and day rehabilitation, acute hospitals, community and palliative care.

When Paul is not working he likes to spend time with his wife and two daughters (5 & 3). He enjoys gardening, woodwork, fishing and running. Paul completed his first half marathon last year and plans to complete another three in 2018.

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SKIN Tissue Engineering

During 2016 we awarded a significant grant to Adelaide-based biotechnology company SKIN Tissue Engineering to support their unique tissue culturing process.

The process can significantly help burns victims by growing large areas of new skin from a small piece of donor skin in less than a month.

The funding will support evaluation of a prototype reactor and the tissue culturing process, then the start of human trials from the middle of 2017.

The technology extracts cells from a piece of donor skin measuring just 10 square centimetres and then produces 25 square metres of skin, enough to cover the entire body, in just 28 days.

SKIN was established after the 2002 Bali bombings by Associate Professor John Greenwood and former Sturt footballer Julian Burton.

Julia Farr Collaboration

Julia Farr Housing Association (JFHA)

We are delighted to be partnering with the Julia Farr Housing Association (JFHA) on a significant home automation and assistive technology project trial.

The joint research study will identify and measure the benefits of up to 13 scheme participants to explore how integrated home technology can increase a person’s independence and dignity, enhance their wellbeing and connection to the community.

The trial will involve identifying, assessing and validating suitable technology, utilising a proven Cost Benefit Analysis approach.

Outcomes of the project will provide valuable experience and information to further inform the value of technology as part of treatment, care and support plans for participants.

Through this project, we anticipate our participants to have greater independence and mobility, improved control in their lives through a greater choice of technology options, and be active participants in the assessment and selection of technology in their lives.

The project will run through to October 2018.

Hampstead Rehabilitation Centre

Brain Research

The Hampstead Rehabilitation Centre project is exploring education that addresses recognition of the signs of brain injury-related fatigue.

Dr Maggie Killington, and occupational therapists Michael Snigg and Emma Campbell, will undertake a clinical trial to investigate whether group-based education that addresses recognition of the signs of fatigue, causes of fatigue and self-management of fatigue following brain injury result in improved quality of life and self-efficacy.

The study will include 50 participants each of whom will be an inpatient in the Acquired Brain Injury unit at the Hampstead.

University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide

The research team at the University of Adelaide is looking to develop a preliminary trial of an online vocational program for adults with spinal cord injury.

The project has three aims: to examine facilitators of and barriers to workforce participation to people with spinal cord injury living in community-based housing, to examine the feasibility of online vocational rehabilitation programs, and to create a detailed picture of service delivery in vocational rehabilitation.

A key outcome of the research will address the successful long-term health and lifestyle for injured people, and help to ensure that our participants living with spinal cord injury have a robust set of tools and information to successfully transition to vocational pursuits and career development.

Unversity of Adelaide’s Dr Diana Dorstyn, lecturer in the School of Psychology, leads the team of researchers.

Flinders University

The Flinders University research project will look at supporting people with complex trauma injuries and their families to maximise participation through community mobility.

The project will focus on people with injuries including orthopaedic, amputee, spinal cord and traumatic brain injuries, who may no longer be able to drive.

The study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a community mobility group intervention for these people, and their families, to positively impact health outcomes.

The research team includes Assoc Prof Stacey George, Dr Jacqui Liddle, Prof Maria Crotty and Dr Chris Barr, and is supported by a steering committee.

Hampstead Rehabilitation Centre and Royal Adelaide Hospital

Spinal Cord Research

Hampstead Rehabilitation Centre and the Royal Adelaide Hospital are studying technology available for individuals with tetraplegia, a spinal cord injury above the first thoracic vertebrae affecting the cervical spinal cord.

Tetraplegia results in reduced motor and sensory function of the upper and lower limbs, and independent access to technology can be difficult or sometimes impossible for people living with the condition.

The research project will facilitate access to an all-in-one device, such as a tablet or smartphone, for people living Tetraplegia to explore the satisfaction and perspectives of its uses and benefits.

The research team is led by occupational therapist Kate Viner, with Dr Mandy Stanley and Hugh Stewart.

University of South Australia

The team of researchers at the University of South Australia is looking to develop an understanding of the meaning of choice and control, as it relates to our participants.

The project will focus on people who have acquired brain injury and spinal cord injury as a result of a motor vehicle accident, and will not only include the perspectives of participants but also their caregivers and families members.

Learnings of the study will help to inform practice that can help to improve the lives of our participants and ensure the best outcomes for them and their families.

The research team includes both senior experienced and early career researchers of the School of Health Sciences at the University of South Australia and includes Dr Mandy Stanley, Dr Syhlie Mackintosh, Dr Gisela van Kessel, Dr Caroline Fryer, Assoc Prof Susan Hillier and Carolyn Murray.

South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute and Neil Sachse Foundation

South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute and Neil Sachse Foundation logo

South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), in partnership with the Neil Sachse Foundation, is studying innovative solutions to spinal cord injuries from motor vehicle accidents.

SAHMRI’s project focuses on creating an innovative biological approach to spinal cord injury and will use a cyclotron, or particle accelerator, located at SAHMRI in Adelaide.

Research will look at spinal cord inflammation, and may lead to improved scanning of affected areas, better surgical intervention and improved patient outcomes.

The research team of Prof Julio Licinio, Dr Parabjit Takhar and Prof Brian Freeman has expertise in neuroscience and imaging, radiochemistry and spinal cord injury.

Acquired Brain Injury in South Australian Prisons – Flinders University

Flinders University

The Hampstead Rehabilitation Centre and Flinders University will investigate the number of new admissions to prisons in South Australia who have a history or risk factors for acquired brain injury (ABI).

The study, led by Dr Maggie Killington from Flinders University, will investigate the neurobehavioural implications of people in the prison system living with ABI, and the additional effects of those released from prison and the reincarceration rates for prisioners with a history of ABI.

The project aims to determine whether people with a history of ABI are over-represented in the prison system, and whether a history of ABI affects their time in prison and ability to return to the community.

Office for the Public Advocate

The Office of the Public Advocate logo

The Office for the Public Advocate will produce a policy and practice framework in relation to the implementation of supported decision-making principles for people with impaired decision-making capacity.

This project will enhance an individual’s ability to get their life chances back following an acquired brain injury.

The research team includes Ms Anne Gale, Ms Elicia White and Ms Stacey Rowse.

Population-based Studies for Spinal Cord Injury – CALHN

Central Adelaide Local Health Network logo

The Central Adelaide Local Health Network will undertake three studies into spinal cord injury, led by Associate Professor Ruth Marshall.

The population-based studies will include the identification of demographics, injury causation and characteristics that impact functioning, health and wellbeing of people with spinal cord injury and how they vary between Australian state and between countries.

Research will also look at the ability to deliver care to community-dwelling groups including lived experienced among the Aboriginal community.

Improving Long-term Care for Spinal Cord Injury – SAHMRI

South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute logo

A study involving 50 people living with spinal cord injury will help to determine a new diagnostic and long-term prognostic approach to the care of people with these injuries.

The study by South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute will conduct PET scans and two-year quarterly reviews on the participants and collect detailed analysis to ultimately result in a more precise and personalised approach to spinal cord injury patients.

The research team includes Professor Julio Licinio, Professor Brian Freeman, Mr Prab Takhar and Dr Ryan Doig.

Optimal Training for Service Providers – Stretchy Tech

Stretchy Tech – Nothing Out Of Reach logo

Stretchy Tech has recognised the need for research into specialist training in assistive technology required for service providers and support staff in the disability sector.

The project includes an action-research approach to identifying the best form and intensity of training requirements for service coordinators, planners and support workers to enable them to assist people with disability to use assistive technology, including smartphones and tablets.

The research project will not only deepen the understanding of how to best support service planning and support workers, but also enable people living with acquired brain injury or spinal cord injury to have access to the good things in life through technology.

Advanced Technology in Vehicle Modifications – UniSA

University of South Australia

A study by the University of South Australia will research the effectiveness of vehicle modifications for people with disability.

The project will determine the cost effectiveness and social benefits of provision of vehicle modification to people with disability, using the Social Return on Investment methodology.

Results of the project will enable a greater understanding of the impact and outcomes of investment in the provision of complex vehicle modifications from the perspective of people living with disability, their families, vehicle modifiers, driving instructors, employers and health practitioners.

The project team includes Professor Julie Ratcliffe, Associate Professor Stacey George, Dr Angela Berndt and Susan Gilbert-Hunt.

Improving Outcomes for Children with Brain Injury – WCHN

Women’s and Children’s Hospital Adelaide logo

A project team at the Women’s and Children’s Hospital will address the support needs of children with mild-to-moderate traumatic brain injury from vehicle-related accidents.

The project will identify children who are at risk of or exhibiting signs of brain injury and implement a short-term, goal-oriented rehabilitation program, which will include interventions delivered by a multi-disciplinary team.

Outcomes will include improved early detection of mild-to-moderate brain injury in children, resulting in a more supported return to school and community life, and a reduction in carer-related stress and burden.

The project team includes Dr James Rice, Associate Professor Ray Russo, Natalie Hood and Heather Baron.

Consistency of Care for People with TBI – SALHN

Southern Adelaide Health Network logo

The Southern Adelaide Health Network will undertake a study to provide an evidence-based and standardised approach to deescalating challenging behaviours in people living with traumatic brain injury (TBI).

The outcomes will include the identification of best practice care for behavioural management, publication of an evidence-based protocol to standardize care and creation of a fit-for-purpose database to enable tracking of patient recovery following TBI.

The project will be led by Felicity Jenkinson, Senior Occupational Therapist Neurosurgery.

Discovering the Power in People with Spinal Cord Injury – PQSA

PQSA logo

Discovering the Power in Me (DPM) is a project aimed at developing the inner strength and resilience of people living with spinal cord injury.

PQSA will use the grant to recruit two additional accredited DPM facilitators to deliver five workshops for 40–50 participants, to be held across metropolitan and regional South Australia.

DPM not only uses the best principles of applied cognitive psychology to provide people with disabilities and their families with tools to develop the inner strength and resilience to re-assert control over their lives, but also aims to increase engagement in the community and improves wellbeing and mental health.

Postural Alignment and Mobility Impairment After ABI – Hampstead

Spinal Cord Research

A project team at the Hampstead Rehabilitation Centre will research postural alignment and severe mobility impairment after acquired brain injury (ABI).

Research will determine changes in mobility, the relationship between change in postural alignment and change in mobility skills and the relationships between quality of life and mobility for people living with severe ABI.

The study will observe 12 adults living with ABI to explore the personal significance of mobility skills and study posture using state-of-the-art 3D motion analysis technology, to determine if improving posture is related to improving mobility.

The project team includes Mr Simon Mills (Principal Investigator), Dr Shylie Mackintosh, Dr Michelle McDonnell and Dr Domic Thewlis.

Dignity of Risk for People Living with Brain Injury – University of SA

University of South Australia

The University of South Australia will undertake a project to better understand how health professionals manage the dignity of risk for people living with brain injury.

The project will address common restrictions this group faces to achieve meaningful participation in the community, and understand how occupational therapists and physiotherapists understand risk, balance community safety and support personal growth.

The study aims to address the issue of how to enable people living with brain injury to live a full life, including having the dignity to take risks that are part of everyday life.

The University of South Australia’s senior lecturer Dr Mandy Stanley will lead the project team.

Effective Driver Rehabilitation for Traumatic Brain Injury – Flinders University

Flinders University

Flinders University will research and identify the most effective rehabilitation approach for returning to driving following traumatic brain injury (TBI).

The project will assess and evaluate participants as they participate in a variety of training methods to determine which intervention approach is most effective.

Participants will use a driving similar, the first to be available for clinical practice in South Australia, throughout the study. The results will compare the effectiveness of the driving simulator compared to routine driving lessons to inform clinical practice.

The project team will be led by Associate Professor Stacey George from the Flinders University.

A family-directed Approach to Supporting Brain Injury – Flinders University

Flinders University

A family-directed approach to supporting people living with traumatic brain injury (TBI) is the focus of a research project led by Dr Michelle Bellon from the Flinders University.

The project will look at the feasibility of a family-directed behaviour support training program for family caregivers, rather than solely depending on the current service model to meet neurobehavioural support needs.

The primary aims of the project include increasing the quality of life and community participation of people living with TBI and their families, and increasing the capacity of family caregivers to understand behaviour change.

Clickability Pilot Project

Clickability logo

Clickability will develop a pilot for LSS participants to enable them, their families and carers to have greater online access to LSA services and service providers.

The pilot will be provided to LSA in four stages, including an online directory of services, developing resources, and training and support to ensure participants are actively engaged in decision-making.

Aims of the pilot include supporting greater choice and control for LSS participants, and enabling a greater ability to provide reviews of service providers.

Mobility Factors Following Traumatic Brain Injury – Flinders University

Flinders University

A team at Flinders University will research the specific mobility factors that influence participation in community activities for people living with traumatic brain injury (TBI).

The project team will recruit 40 participants living with TBI and collect data relating to walking and balance activity, and relate this data to community participation.

The findings will provide greater knowledge into specific mobility factors that influence participation in community activities and will likely lead to publishable knowledge to inform the wider community.

The project team includes Associate Professor James McLoughlin, Nicole Simmons and Dr Chris Barr.

Immersion Therapy for Active Recovery – Determined2

Determined2 logo

The team at Determined2 will undertake research to create a standardised plan for using Immersion Therapy in the rehabilitation of brain and physical injuries.

The project will engage with medical and allied health professionals to determine measurable outcomes and create a high-quality brain and spinal cord injury rehabilitation program that demonstrates enhanced brain plasticity.

Determined2’s project aims to increase life opportunities, including choice and control for participants, and increase their adjustment to injury.

Regional spinal cord injury peer network – PQSA

PQSA logo

PQSA will develop a program of volunteer Peer Network Facilitators across regional South Australia to foster and build self-efficacy and resilience for people living with spinal cord injury in regional areas of South Australia.

Through the program, a project officer will be appointed to work with clinicians and funding bodies to identify potential clients and build and expand on existing informal networks, including social networks, in the region.

Peer Network Facilitators will be established in the South East, Eyre Peninsula, Iron Triangle, Riverland/Murray Mallee, the Yorke Peninsula and Clare Valley.

Supporting Kids with Brain Injury – SA Brain Injury Rehabilitation Service and Flinders University

Flinders University

Identifying the gaps in resources and tools for supporting and educating children about brain injury is the focus of a study by SA Brain Injury Rehabilitation Service and Flinders University.

The project will investigate the perspective from children and families when a family member has brain injury and understand if children perceive whether their needs were met.

The research findings will ultimately form the basis of developing an education program or tool box to be used in sub-acute brain injury rehabilitation.

The project will be undertaken by Dr Maggie Killington from Flinders University, and supported by researchers Kate Dawes, Ashley Belcher and Dr Maayken van den Berg.

Quality in Brain Injury Rehabilitation – UniSA

University of South Australia

The Sansom Institute for Health Research will study how the quality of brain injury rehabilitation is understood by people living with brain injury, their families and carers, and the practitioners who provide it.

The research will report evidence from different countries and contexts, and recommend options for evaluating and measuring quality in brain injury rehabilitation in South Australia.

The outcomes of the project will enable consumers and practitioners to better recognise quality when making rehabilitation choices, and help to determine if high quality rehabilitation is being applied.

The project team includes Associate Professor Susan Hillier, Dr Julie Luker and Ms Carolyn Murray, all from the Health Sciences Division at the University of South Australia.

Orla Dingle

Quality and Policy Officer

Orla Dingle

Orla is an accomplished, versatile and results driven professional who specialises in the disability sector.

Orla has worked with people with a disability for over 17 years, developing programs and managing client relations as well as family interaction with the service provider. Orla has a Masters in Child, Family and Community and has an Honours Degree in Social Care Specialising in Disability.

Orla has a strong commitment to person-centred planning. She enjoys watching the life journey of participants and finding out what really matters to the person.

When Orla is not supporting participants, she enjoys spending time with her family, friends and her rescued dog Salt. Orla’s dream travel experience would be to complete the Trans-Siberian Railway.

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Krystal Brown

Participant Support Officer

Krystal Brown

Krystal loves coming to work every day knowing that her work has a positive impact on people’s lives – she believes that this is an amazing feeling to provide support to others.

Krystal has always been passionate about helping others and seeing our participants return to their lives after their accidents is remarkable.

Krystal has extensive experience in administration where she have previously worked for many years and has completed certificate III in Government. Working at LSA has inspired Krystal to investigate options in respects to part time studies within the allied health field.

When Krystal is not working or studying she loves taking her five year old son on adventures, traveling or spending time with her family and friends.

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Janice Harden

Participant Support Officer

Janice Harden

Janice has a background working for not-for-profit organisations that provide in-home care, as well as experience working with clients with special needs.

Janice brings a particular empathy to her Participant Support Officer role at the LSA and understands that each participant has very individual needs. Janice knows that one small detail could make a huge difference to the lives of a participant.

Janice enjoys the daily interaction with participants, and knowing that each day she has helped to make a difference.

Outside of the LSA environment, Janice loves to entertain at home and travel.

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Stephanie Barton

Service Planner

Stephanie Barton

Stephanie is passionate about social justice. She was drawn to work with LSA as she values the person centred approach and loves working with LSA participants to reach their goals.

She enjoys working with people and is inspired by the participant’s resilience throughout their rehabilitation journey.

As a social work graduate Stephanie brings knowledge regarding current social work trends, theories and has a background in customer service. Although new to the discipline, Stephanie is enthusiastic and eager to support people in reaching their desired goals. Stephanie has experience from university work placements, working closely with children and families in the health sector.

Stephanie spends her free time with friends, attending music festivals and travelling.

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Claire Sheehy

Service Planner

Claire Sheehy

Claire loves working with people to facilitate their improvement and return to the activities and roles that are most meaningful to them.

She is passionate about taking a holistic approach to health and wellbeing.

Claire is an occupational therapist and before joining LSA she worked with people with disabilities in the community. Claire has extensive experience in the prescription of complex equipment and has worked in acute and rehabilitation areas in hospitals in South Australia and Far North Queensland.

Claire is a mother who loves to travel when she can and loves swimming at the beach. Claire also has an open water scuba dive licence.

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Jessica Ciccarello

Service Planner

Jessica Ciccarello

Jessica is passionate about working with and supporting individuals to help them reach their potential, achieve goals that are important to them and live a life that is fulfilling.

Working at LSA gives Jessica the opportunity to do this on a daily basis and makes her job a complete pleasure.

Jessica is a qualified occupational therapist who has worked in the rehabilitation field for more than nine years. She has experience in a broad range of areas including, brain injury, amputations, multi-trauma and complex care.

When Jessica is not working, she loves spending time with her family and friends, being outdoors and travelling.

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Anne Holub

Service Planner

Anne Holub

Anne is a caring person who looks forward to getting to know and working with the LSA Participants.

She enjoys learning from her colleagues and the participants. She is inspired by the work her colleagues do and enjoys supporting them in their roles.

She has a valuable early background in adult rehabilitation, knowledge that she gained as an occupational therapist. More recently, Anne worked with children with Intellectual disabilities and their families for ten years.

Anne is a mother of two who enjoys camping adventures with her family and friends, especially in the Flinders Ranges. She also enjoys gardening and playing the piano.

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Amy Osborne

Service Planner

Amy Osborne

Amy says that helping participants get back to living life to the fullest, and watching their journey as they do so, is what she loves most about her role.

Amy brings a background in social work and a person-centred focus to her role. She has experience working in the health sector, most recently in a rehabilitation centre with people who have sustained spinal cord injuries and strokes, as well as amputees.

Amy is an experienced traveller that has visited many corners of the world, but the best thing she knows is right here in Adelaide, she loves the Adelaide Fringe. Amy also enjoys baking and listening to music.

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Rebecca Milloy

Senior Service Planner

Rebecca Milloy

Rebecca is passionate about working with people, understanding what is important to them and assisting people to prosper.

She enjoys working at LSA because she believe it is a unique organisation that sees each participate as an individual and her team members are genuinely focused on facilitating people to reach their individual goals.

Rebecca have worked in rehabilitation in Northern Territory, New South Wales and South Australia and spent time volunteering in Tanzania. She has extensive experience in home modification, wheelchair and complex equipment prescription. She has spent much of her career working with people who have a spinal cord injury.

When she is not working she loves spending time with her family & friends, and travelling. Rebecca’s dream travel experience is to scuba dive from the islands of Borneo.

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Caitlin Fulton

Senior Service Planner

Caitlin Fulton

Caitlin has a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and a particular interest in neurological rehabilitation, including traumatic brain injury.

In her role, she most loves what she learns every day from her participants – their great diversity of strengths, stories and experiences.

With 10 years’ experience as an occupational therapist, including work as an OT on the Isle of Man, Caitlin has worked across acute, sub-acute, community and service planning roles. She has been involved in the entire participant rehabilitation journey.

When she is not helping our participants, she is mum to a beautiful baby boy and is working towards completion of her Masters of Clinical Rehabilitation at Flinders University.

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Joseph Ullianich

Mr Ullianich gained extensive experience in disability funding as the Executive Director of Financial Services in the Department for Communities and Social Inclusion, from 2004 until his retirement in 2012. He was also the Director of Finance and Investment in the Department of Treasury and Finance.

Mr Ullianich is the Chair of the Department for Correctional Services Risk Management and Audit Committee and the State Emergency Relief Fund Committee. He is also a member of the Independent Gambling Authority and the Supported Community Accommodation Board.

He has been a Board member of the AustralAsia Railway Corporation, the South Australian Asset Management Corporation and Southern Group Insurance Corporation. He holds a Bachelor of Economics and is a Certified Practicing Accountant (CPA).

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George Potter

Mr Potter is a highly experienced orthopaedic surgeon with extensive surgical experience in the management of spinal conditions.

He is Head of the Orthopaedic Clinical Services (Administrative) at the Royal Adelaide Hospital and a lead clinician to the new Royal Adelaide Hospital.

After graduating from the University of Adelaide Medical School, he trained as an orthopaedic surgeon in Adelaide and Edinburgh (UK), becoming a Fellow of the Royal Australian College of Surgeons in 1977 and a Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons (Edinburgh) in 1986.

Mr Potter was a founding member of the Orthopaedic Clinical Network and is a past Vice President of the Paraplegic and Quadriplegic Association of SA.

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Melinda OLeary

Ms OLeary is co-founder and consultant with Nova Systems, an engineering and project management company with more than 300 staff across the globe.

She has extensive experience in recruitment, including as SA State Operations Manager for Select Staff and SA General Manager for Manpower.

Ms OLeary is the Deputy Chair of the Training and Skills Commission and a member of the external review team of the First Principles Review of Defence Oversight Board.

She is a member of the Institute of Personal Consultants, has a Professional Certificate in Management from the Adelaide University Graduate School of Management, and has successfully completed the Australian Institute of Company Directors course.

She is a former Chair of The Hospital Research Foundation and its HR Committee, a former Board member of Time for Kids and has been a volunteer carer for 10 years.

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Kenneth Williams

Mr Williams has more than 25 years’ operational experience in corporate finance and treasury and financial risk management.

He has diverse experience in mergers, acquisitions, divestments and corporate reconstructions.

Mr Williams is an Independent Chairman of Statewide Superannuation and a member of its Investment Committee, Director of Bayeux Investments and Chair of Havilah Resources Limited.

His Board experience includes a broad range of risk management and investment committee responsibilities and he has extensive experience working with and serving on the Boards of large and small listed companies, private companies, not-for-profit organisations and superannuation funds under a range of regulatory regimes.

He has held senior executive roles with Normandy Mining Limited and Qantas Airways Limited.

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Arabella Branson

Ms Branson has her own commercial advisory firm and has practiced law for more than 16 years in the area of commercial transactional and advisory law.

She previously practised in a specialist South Australian corporate and commercial law firm for nine years, where she was a partner for more than two years.

Ms Branson has been a Board member of the Service to Youth Council (SYC) since 2007. She is the Chair of the SYC Governance Committee and a member of its Audit and Remuneration Committee. She is a member of the Heart Foundation Board and the Oakbank Racing Committee. Ms Branson is also a member of the Law Society of South Australia.

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Juliet Brown, Chair

Juliet Brown – Chair

Ms Brown is a professional company director who has extensive experience in law and business.

Her current directorships include the South Australian Government Financing Authority Advisory Board, Medical Insurance Australia Pty Ltd, the Medical Defence Association of South Australia and the University of Adelaide Audit and Risk Committee.

Ms Brown is also on the Board of Green Industries SA, Catherine House, Supported Community Accommodation and the People’s Choice Credit Union Board Nominations Committee.

She was previously on the Board of the South Australian Motor Accident Commission and is a former President of the RAA of SA Inc.

Prior to her company director roles, Ms Brown was Chief Executive of Thomson Playford (now Thomson Geer), one of South Australia’s largest commercial law firms, having previously practised as a solicitor for both public and private sector clients in the health and insurance areas.

Kylie Smith

Manager Service Planning

Kylie Smith

Kylie loves meeting and getting to know participants and their families.

She is passionate in her support for participants to overcome obstacles and head in the direction of their dreams and aspirations.

She is a qualified social worker who has extensive experience in identifying the needs of people she works with, and a belief that people with disability should have the opportunity to participate fully in life.

With years of personal experience, living with a wheelchair user, and 20 years experience as a social worker, working with individuals and families who have experienced traumatic events and sudden life changes Kylie has developed a compassionate and practical approach as a Senior Service Planner.

Kylie enjoys spending time with her family and friends. In her free time she can be found in her garden or learning a new crochet stitch. Kylie is fluent in Danish.

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Laleh Rej

Manager Service Planning

Laleh Rej

Laleh believes that coming to work is never a chore because she loves what she does.

The best part of her job is that she gets to manage the support for a number of awesome participants. Laleh is constantly inspired by her participants, as she sees them overcome barrier after barrier.

She has 12 years of clinical experience as a Speech Pathologist and previously managed the Speech Pathology department at the Hampstead Rehabilitation Centre. Her clinical expertise are foremost in inpatient rehab and community settings. Her vast experience helps her support participants through all stages of their rehabilitation journey.

Laleh has a Bachelor degree in Speech Pathology and is currently writing a thesis for a Master of Science Degree (by Research) at Flinders University. Her research included clinical trials at Hampstead Rehabilitation Centre investigating an intensive communication program for stroke patients.

Laleh speaks fluent Persian, loves animals and she self-identifies as a gym-junkie. She absolutely adores reading and even hosts a monthly book club.

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Elissa Sara

Service Planner

Elissa Sara

Elissa enjoys networking and loves the variety of people she meets in her work with the LSA, especially the rapport she builds with participants over their recovery journey.

Elissa is a qualified occupational therapist with experience in a broad range of areas including aged and palliative care, hospital and community rehabilitation. She has worked in these areas in both country and metropolitan regions.

When she is not busy working with LSA participants, Elissa enjoys dancing and meeting new people.

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Penny White

Senior Service Planner

Penny White

Penny loves watching participants grow in confidence as she is helping them achieve their goals.

Building long-term working relationships with participants and their families is what Penny most loves about her work at the LSA. She believes that her role is to support participants as they negotiate their way through the complexities of their recovery and to encourage them to become as independent as possible.

Penny is a trained physiotherapist with more than 20 years’ experience primarily in hospitals and community-based rehabilitation. With a holistic approach to health, Penny recognises the importance of early intervention on long-term recovery and understands rehabilitation from a practical perspective. Penny has a significant understanding of different health systems, having worked in the United States, New Zealand and was a Service Planner in New South Wales at the time their lifetime care scheme was implemented.

Penny is one of seven children and has three of her own, and she loves their large, noisy family gatherings!

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Sylvia Tseng

Service Planner

Sylvia Tseng

Sylvia finds her work with participants inspiring, particularly as she supports and facilitates their journey of rehabilitation and recovery.

Sylvia is a social worker with a background in the aged care sector, and is a strong advocate for the LSA’s person-centred approach to working with participants.

She brings to her Service Planner role an understanding of cultural and ethnic diversity as well as experience working in indigenous communities.

Included in Sylvia’s many talents is her voluntary shift on radio station 5EBI, where she can be heard reading the local news in Mandarin on Sunday at 9.30pm.

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Sharon Cates

Manager Service Planning

Sharon Cates

Sharon is a skilled and highly experienced occupational therapist who has worked with a broad range of people from young children and their families to the elderly, working in acute, rehabilitation and community settings.

Sharon has worked in clinical advisory roles for government and international not-for-profit organisations and has significant experience working with people with serious disabilities.

She enjoys working with hospital treating teams to see participants successfully return home, as well as watching participants resume activities that are most important to them, whether it be driving, work, school, study or caring for their children.

Prior to her appointment at the LSA, Sharon completed a clinical coordination contract in a rehabilitation centre for people with disabilities in Indonesia.

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Karen Munro

Senior Service Planner

Karen Munro

Karen loves helping LSA participants return to their life– whether it be helping people to regain their role as a parent or returning to work or study.

Karen is a qualified occupational therapist with extensive experience working with people at all stages of their recovery from traumatic brain injury, amputations, spinal cord injury, burns and multi-trauma cases – from initial acute care through to resuming their activities in the community. She has specialist skills with helping people re-enter the workforce and is actively involved in leading weekly children’s programs in the community, in a voluntary capacity.

Karen is mum to four children and her favourite place is on a camping adventure, swimming in a river gorge in the Kimberley in Western Australia.

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Tamara Tomic

LSA Chief Executive

Tamara Tomic – LSA Chief Executive

As an inaugural member of the LSA’s leadership team, Tamara is a champion of the Lifetime Support Scheme’s person-centred approach.

She is committed to the Scheme’s role in supporting the quality of life, well-being and independence of participants, and promoting disability inclusion in the South Australian community.

Tamara has significant experience within the South Australian Government, with particular focus on financial management, strategy and governance. Tamara is also a Certified Practicing Accountant, a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, and member of the South Australian Government Financing Authority Audit and Risk Management Committee.

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Rebecca Singh

Director, Services

Rebecca Singh – Director, Services

Rebecca enjoys sharing a laugh with participants and is constantly amazed at their ability to retain a sense of humour when they are going through challenging times – that is just one of the elements of her job that she loves.

With two decades of experience working in brain injury and care needs assessment, and a thorough understanding of South Australia’s health and disability sectors, Rebecca heads up the Services directorate at the LSA. She is an occupational therapist who says that one of the most important aspects of her work with participants is supporting them as they resume their roles within their family unit.

Rebecca is an avid traveller and says Iceland and South America are so far her favourite destinations.

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