The Lived Experience Advisory Group (LEAG) for the Cardiovascular Research Flagship is a key component of the research program led by the Menzies Institute for Medical Research.
This group of Tasmanians plays a vital role in shaping the direction and implementation of cardiovascular research initiatives.
Research by the Flagship has a strong emphasis on co-design and our team seek to align their work with real-world needs of Tasmanians to ensuring we are focusing on concerns of the community.
The members of the LEAG work directly with our senior and lead researchers on the direction of their work, grant application and projects as they progress. By drawing on their own personal experiences the LEAG can provide us with fresh perspectives and crucial links to communities across Tasmania.
Key roles
Co-Design
The research agenda of the Flagship is led by co-design with health professionals, policy makers, and individuals who have lived experience of cardiovascular disease. This ensures that the research is grounded in real-world needs and perspectives.
Community Engagement
LEAG members actively contribute to projects that integrate research, policy, and lived experience. Their insights help tailor processes and communication to be more effective and relevant to the Tasmanian community.
Leadership and Membership
Members come from around the state, and have either first-hand experience of the effect cardiovascular disease can have on individuals and their families.
The inaugural chair of the group is John Stevens, who has lived experience of stroke. Members also include Michael Whittle, co-founder of the Hobart Stroke Support Group, who was recognized as Volunteer of the Year at the National Stroke Awards 2025 for his contributions to stroke research and advocacy and the inaugural Deputy Chair, Drew Thomas.
Research Contributions
LEAG members help evaluate and advise research applications. Their feedback gives fresh perspectives to researchers on their work and how it can have real-world impact.
At the inaugural Early-to-mid-career Symposium in 2025, LEAG members served as judges for cardiovascular research awards.
This year they have also been central to a series of priority setting workshops, which ensured codesign will be part of future projects.
They also supported initiatives of the Flagship including:
- Automated blood pressure measurement in primary care.
- Improved screening for women with pre-eclampsia.
- Programs to prevent hospital readmissions for heart failure.
- The “Love Your Brain” digital platform for stroke prevention.
Get Involved
We welcome expressions of interest from individuals with lived experience of cardiovascular disease who are passionate about improving health outcomes in Tasmania and beyond. Your voice can help shape the future of heart health research.
For more information or to get involved, contact the Cardiovascular Research Flagship team by:
