The Executive team at the Aged Rights Advocacy Service (ARAS) bring a unique combination of skills and experience to our organisation.
Anna Barton, Chief Executive
Anna Barton was appointed Chief Executive of ARAS in June 2026, following eight years with the organisation as Operations Manager. With more than 30 years of senior leadership experience across government and not-for-profit sectors, Anna has led and delivered services in employment, youth and family support, mental health, Veterans' Affairs, community development, and aged care advocacy across metropolitan, regional, and First Nations communities.
A strong advocate for social justice, Anna has contributed to numerous community groups and advisory committees throughout her career. Holding a Master of Business Administration (MBA), Anna brings strategic insight, operational expertise, and values-based leadership to the organisation, supporting the achievement of ARAS' vision and strategic priorities.
As Chief Executive, Anna is focused on strengthening partnerships, championing the rights of older people, and advancing initiatives that promote dignity, wellbeing, and inclusion for older South Australians.
Lyndon Prior, Corporate Services Manager
Lyndon joined ARAS in September 2020 as Corporate Services Manager. Lyndon brings over 15years’ experience as a Finance and Corporate Manager to ARAS, with demonstrated skills and knowledge in strategic planning, long-term financial planning and financial reporting, gained predominately in local government across South Australia. He has most recently completed a contract with the Mornington Shire Council (Qld) as acting CEO where he was responsible for on-boarding and inducting a newly elected member body. He excels in governance, compliance, policy and procedure advice.
He also has experience working in the finance industry, being a career banker with Banks SA for over 15 years and worked predominately in rural and regional areas. Lyndon’s experience also includes business ownership and management, having been a business consultant and licensed mortgage broker, and previously held the license as a hotel owner and operator. Lyndon has comprehensive knowledge and understanding of business operations for entities ranging from large corporations to SME’s.
He holds tertiary qualifications in Bachelor of Business (Banking & Finance) and a Diploma Finance & Mortgage Broking Management.
Carman Wilson, Operations Manager
Carman joined ARAS in October 2026 as Operations Manager. Carman has over 25 years' experience in the social services sector across Australia and the UK, working in public and not-for-profit organisations across health, early childhood, disability services and homelessness.
Carman brings extensive knowledge and understanding of the strategic and operational challenges and opportunities facing the social services sector and has guided organisations through periods of significant growth and transformation. As a CPA-qualified accountant, Carman also brings strong financial expertise, with a focus on effective budgeting, management reporting and operational efficiencies.
Carman has a keen interest in understanding the social implications of broader policy decisions on individuals and communities, and the relationship organisations have with these impacts. This interest led Carman to complete a Graduate Certificate in Social Impact in 2024. Carman is also nearing completion of a degree in Psychological Science and Sociology at Adelaide University.
Carman is currently Treasurer of the South Australian Network of Drug and Alcohol Services (SANDAS) and a member of the CPA Australia Environment, Sustainability and Governance Centre of Excellence.
