Advocates hope new Barbie doll will create Down syndrome awareness

Down Syndrome Australia's chief executive Darryl Steff said the doll was a welcome acknowledgement of diversity in our country.

He hoped the doll would spur conversations about what everyday life with is like for those with Down syndrome.

"One of the biggest challenges that people living with Down syndrome experience these days is society expectations - or lack of expectations - around what they can achieve" he said.

"Anything we can do to better represent [people] is a step in the right direction."

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Mattel said it was guided by America's National Down Syndrome Society when creating the toy to "ensure the doll accurately represents a person with Down syndrome".

The Barbie's blue and yellow dress highlight the colours associated with Down syndrome awareness.

In addition, the Barbie wears ankle foot orthotics, which some children with Down syndrome use.

The doll is part of Mattel's 2023 Fashionista line to increase diversity and inclusivity in children's toys.

Dolls already unveiled in the line include a Ken with a prosthetic leg, a Barbie with hearing aids and dolls with the skin condition vitiligo.