People seek genetic counselling because of concerns that conditions identified in themselves or members of their family may be inherited. They may have concerns about their personal health or the health of their children. Depending on the nature of the condition, the referral may be made to a general or specialised genetic clinic.
We are a team of clinical geneticists, genetic counsellors, medical oncologists and support staff, working together with other Austin Health specialists to help people make informed decisions about their health and wellbeing through genetic diagnosis, counselling and support.
Appointments at our service are government funded and in most cases, do not involve any out of pocket cost.
Referrals
Medical Practitioners can contact us to make a referral or enquiry.
Individuals concerned about a genetic risk in their family are welcome to contact our genetic counsellors on 03 9496 3027.
Staff Profiles
Professor Martin Delatycki, Director, Clinical Geneticist and Paediatrician with a PhD for studies in Friedreich ataxia. Martin’s clinical interests are neurogenetics and genetic screening. He has over 130 publications and research programs in neurogenetics and community genetics.
Professor Agnes Bankier, Clinical Geneticist and Paediatrician with an interest in syndrome diagnosis, ethics and genetic education, is currently the Chair of the Education Committee of the HGSA. Agnes works in general and cancer genetic services.
Dr. Thomas John, Medical Oncologist with a PhD for studies of gene expression. Tom undertakes basic research in tumour genetics at the Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research. He has a Fellowship from the Victorian Cancer Agency.
Elly Lynch, Unit Manager/ Genetic Counsellor, has a Bachelor of Science and Grad. Dip in Genetic Counselling University of Melbourne. She brings her extensive clinical experience from The Familial Cancer Centre at The Royal Melbourne Hospital and The Royal Marsden Hospital in the UK. Elly is a Fellow of the HGSA.
Matthew Burgess, Genetic Counsellor, has a Bachelor of Science and Diploma of Modern Languages, University of Melbourne and a Graduate Diploma in Genetic Counselling from the University of Newcastle. He is a Fellow of the HGSA and lectures in genetic counselling at Charles Sturt University.
Debbie Davis, Administrative Assistant, has over 25 years of experience in working in clinical genetic services. Debbie joined Austin Health in 2009.
