LSA Innovate event 2025

The 2025 LSA Innovate Forum brought together over 90 researchers, academics, service providers, road safety experts, participants, and key partners at the Adelaide Pavilion on Tuesday, 9 September 2025. Now in its third year, the LSA Innovate Forum provided a unique opportunity to showcase innovative, life-changing research funded by the Lifetime Support Authority (LSA), all with the goal of improving the quality of life for current and future Lifetime Support Scheme (LSS) participants.

The evening began with a warm and engaging networking session, where attendees enjoyed canapés and drinks while building valuable connections across disciplines and sectors.

LSA Board Member Dr. Sian Goodson served as the evening’s emcee, welcoming Mandy Turnbull, LSA’s Director of People and Partnerships. Mandy officially opened the Forum with an overview of the Lifetime Support Authority and its Research, Education and Programs (REP) Grant Program, which funds innovative research into road trauma recovery. She emphasised the LSA’s role in funding initiatives that improve outcomes for people with spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and other serious crash-related injuries.

Before the presentations began, attendees were honoured with a powerful Welcome to Country by Cliffy Wilson, proud Kaurna, Narungga, Ngarrindjeri, Ngadjuri and Arrente man.

Attendees had the opportunity to hear firsthand about three exciting research projects made possible by REP program funding.

Dr Kate Gould (Monash University) shared insights from PBS+PLUS, an innovative, person-centred approach that integrates Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) with cognitive and communication strategies. Designed for individuals with acquired brain injury, the framework enables clinicians to co-create flexible and meaningful intervention plans tailored to each person’s goals and values.

Dr Ryan Quarrington presented his work exploring how different forces experienced during motor vehicle crashes contribute to spinal injuries. His research aims to better understand injury mechanisms to inform prevention strategies and ultimately reduce the incidence and severity of these life-changing injuries.

Associate Professor Maayken van den Berg introduced the Brain Connect platform, which supports and educates children and families impacted by a familial acquired brain injury. Her work focused on the enhancement, evaluation, and implementation of this digital resource to ensure families receive the timely and accessible support they need.

The 2025 LSA Innovate Forum was a celebration of innovation, collaboration, and commitment to making a difference in the lives of those affected by road trauma. The LSA thanks all presenters, attendees, and partners for contributing to another inspiring and impactful event.

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