Webinar: Customised Employment – streamlining sustainable transitions

Date:              Tuesday, 27 February 2018

Time:              WA: 10.00am–11.00am                        NT: 11.30am–12.30pm

Qld: 12.00pm–1.00pm                          SA: 12.30pm–1.30pm

ACT, NSW, TAS, VIC: 1.00pm-2.00pm

Through the NDIS people with disability are increasingly seeking transition to work supports. Join us in this webinar to gain knowledge and an overview of tools and resources to support people who want to work and achieve suitable and sustainable employment using a Customised Employment approach.

This webinar will:

• Provide an overview of the Customised Employment approach
• Encouraging families to be part of the transition journey
• Explore how to maintain successful workplace partnerships
• Broaden thinking around employment supports
• Question and Answer session

Webinar details:    Auslan interpreted, live captioned and recorded

60 minutes duration, FREE to participate

Click on the following link to register:

https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/2242265236811842306?source=Region+16+NDCO+Webinar+Customised+Employment

Accessing the NDIS Permanent and significant disability One of the requirements needed to access the NDIS is evidence of what the NDIS calls a permanent and significant disability.  The NDIS defines a permanent and significant disability as having all of the following factors:

• The person has an impairment or condition that is likely to be permanent (i.e. it is likely to be lifelong)
• The impairment of the person substantially reduces their ability to participate effectively in activities, or perform tasks or actions
• The person’s impairment affects their capacity for social and economic participation
• The person with disability is likely to require support under the NDIS for their lifetime

During the NDIS Access process people with disability need to complete some documents to show they are eligible for the scheme.  The “Evidence of Disability Form” is one of these documents.   People with disability who currently receive supports via designated State or Territory Government programs, will enjoy a streamlined process to access the NDIS.

People in “Defined Programs” will be contacted directly by the NDIS National Access Team, who should already have most of their relevant information.  It is hoped that this means people already approved for support in their State or Territory will get into the NDIS quickly.  Similarly, the NDIS Access process includes a “List A” of conditions that the NDIS accepts will mean people will be eligible for the NDIS.

People with an impairment or condition on List a will also get a streamlined accede to complete Part C of the Evidence of Disability Form. This makes the NDIS Access process a quicker and less stressful experience for those with List a conditions.  There is also a “List B” of conditions, which usually include permanent impairments where the functional capacity of the person is variable, and the NDIS requires further assessment and evidence of their disability before the person can be accepted as an NDIS Participant.

This does not mean people with List B conditions are not eligible for, or won’t get into the NDIS; it simply means they must complete more of the Evidence of Disability Forms than those with a List a Condition need to. It is important to know that the NDIS places more importance on the “functional capacity” of a person with disability, rather than their specific diagnosis of disability or illness.

This means the NDIS looks at what supports a person with disability needs to live an “ordinary life: and not the health effect of their disability or illness.  As a result, when people with disability are collecting evidence to access the NDIS, it may be just as appropriate to collect it from allied health professionals such as physiotherapists and occupational therapists, as from doctors or other medical professionals.

How will the process work when the NDIS is available?

People with disability who are already accessing services from a State or Territory Government may be automatically eligible for NDIS, meaning they meet the access requirements.  The NDIS calls these state and territory government services “Defined Programs” For example people with an Individual Support Package (ISP) in Victoria, or people in NSW accessing services from EnableNSW.

The purpose of Defined Programs is to make the transition easier for people who are already eligible for similar support programs they have been accessing through states and territories.  For example. Those who are in Defined Programs do not need to fill out as much paperwork as those who are not.  Another benefit of the easier access to the NDIS for those in Defined Programs is that it will make the process of accepting the large number of new NDIS Participants easier to manage for the NDIS itself.  Those people with disability who are not in any Defined Programs, or are not accessing any services at all will need to go through the standard NDIS Access process.

• It is important to know that the NDIS is not income support.  The Disability Support Pension (DSP) is for Australians with a physical, intellectual or psychiatric disability unable to work for more than 15 hours per week because of their disability.  The only change with a DSP will be mobility allowance as this will now be the NDIS responsibility and should be included in your plan…

Once the National Access Team of the NDIS has confirmed a person with disability meets the initial NDIS Access requirements, or the person is in a Defined Program, they will become an NDIS participant.

After this process, a different NDIS representative (LAC) will contact the NDIS participant to go through the process of getting an approved NDIS First Plan.  Three steps are needed before the NDIS participants receives an approved NDIS First Plan:

1. Getting Plan Ready (working out support needs)
2. The Planning Conversation
3. NDIS Plan Approval

Please note the first plan will focus primarily on specific support needs of the participant.  The second plan will add aspirations, getting a job, etc.

National Disability Services VIC Conference 2017

Location: Melbourne Park Function Centre

Date: 27/03/2017 to 28/03/2017

With the continued rollout of the NDIS, planning for change is something our sector understands.

At the 2017 NDS Victorian State Conference we’ll be taking the conversation in the direction of exploring the realities, risks and opportunities of delivering change and creating great outcomes for both participants and provider organisations. With a diverse variety of insightful keynote speakers, professional development workshops and exhibitors, you’ll learn innovative and practical strategies that you can implement to: enhance opportunities for NDIS participants in their daily lives, strengthen disability culture and develop your organisation in a market environment.

Contact information

For registration and sponsorship/exhibitor queries, please contact Alyssa Mason at Alyssa.Mason@nds.org.au  or on 02 9256 3133

AGOSCI 13th Biennial Conference

17 – 20 May 2017

The Grand Hyatt, Melbourne, Australia

The AGOSCI Conference Theme for 2017 is “Ready, Set, AACtion”. The conference is an opportunity for people who use AAC, their families, friends, work colleagues, and people who work within the area of Augmentative and Alternative Communication to come together to share their knowledge and skills. Registration for the AGOSCI Conference is now open. You can easily register via an online form or download the registration brochure and manually complete a form.

Register Online Now

http://alloccasionsgroup.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=60c950af82506047d05112ca4&id=882131ce6c&e=4898c99552

AGOSCI Scholarship Information

Limited funding will be available for scholarships to support people with complex communication needs to attend the AGOSCI 2017 Conference.   Applications close 28 February 2017. Click below for further information on how to apply and who is eligible.

http://alloccasionsgroup.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=60c950af82506047d05112ca4&id=cf134975f6&e=4898c99552

Policy, Research & Resources

Welcome to the Cultural Atlas

The Cultural Atlas is an educational resource providing comprehensive cultural information on the countries that Australia’s biggest migrant populations have originated from. The aim is to improve social cohesion in Australia and promote inclusion in an increasingly culturally diverse society. The Cultural Atlas was developed to supplement SBS’s Cultural Competence Program. Click on link: http://theculturalatlas.org/

National Disability Practitioners (NDP) has unveiled its new website and is offering tailored development opportunities for NDS members.

NDP is a division of NDS committed to engaging, developing and supporting the disability workforce. Since launching in December 2014, NDP has grown to represent a community of more than 14,000 individuals. Members range from disability support workers to allied health practitioners, leaders, business support staff, students and volunteers. Individuals can join NDP for $45 per person, per annum. NDP recently unveiled a new website, www.ndp.org.au. The upgraded site showcases a growing range of member benefits and tailored resources. There you can download factsheets on a variety of topics, access up-to-date information on the NDIS, attend free online courses and view video content.

A skilled, informed workforce is crucial for the NDIS. As an NDS member, you have the opportunity to support the information, learning and development needs of your staff with an NDP group subscription. Group subscriptions start at just $20 per person, per annum*.

NDP strives to build and maintain a community of capable, professional and engaged individuals who are committed to delivering high-quality supports and life opportunities for people with disability. To find out more, visit www.ndp.org.au or contact Belinda Allen, Executive Officer at orphone 02 9256 3194.

Access and Inclusion Index

Access and Inclusion is the consideration and incorporation of the needs of people with disability in all areas of an organisation’s operations. This means ensuring that people with disability have equal access to employment, training and development, products and services, premises, communication and information communication technology.  For more information about the Access and Inclusion Index and how to use it go to https://accessandinclusionindex.com.au/overview

Document Accessibility Toolbar (DAT)

An innovation that revolutionises the ease and speed of creating accessible documents in Microsoft Word, the Document Accessibility Toolbar (DAT) supports individuals and organisations to embrace accessibility as ‘business as usual’ at no cost.  The DAT puts the power of accessible functionality into the hands of content authors, for the ultimate benefit of consumers with disability or age-related impairment. https://www.visionaustralia.org/dat

Decision-making support: Building Capacity within Victoria

The aim of the Supported Decision Making Project was to build knowledge on how people with cognitive impairment can be supported to make major life decisions, such as post-school options and accommodation. The research, conducted by La Trobe University, explored the processes and dilemmas associated with supporting people with cognitive disability in decision making. The outcomes of the research were then used by Scope to develop a range of resources to improve knowledge and build capacity in the area of decision-making support. The multimedia and print resources target families and carers, service providers, and legal professionals. http://www.scopeaust.org.au/research-project/decision-making-support-building-capacity-within-victoria/

Disability Knowledge Clearing House

The CADR Disability Knowledge Clearing House exists to help us understand ‘what works, for whom, under what circumstances, at what cost’. Here you will find a repository of links to a wide range of disability research and evaluation resources. CADR is constantly adding material to this site with the aim of building the most comprehensive collection of disability research and resources for the Australian context. http://www.cadr.org.au/

Downloadable Disability Access Symbols

There are over 54 million citizens with disability who want and need access to work and the buildings in which people work. Apart from all ethical considerations, the law demands that people with disability are accommodated. These symbols advertise your accessibility to employees, customers, audiences, and anyone else who needs access to your building or offices. Examples of places you’ll want to promote your accessibility include: advertisements, newsletters, conference and program brochures, membership forms, building signage, floor plans and maps. http://www.artsaccessaustralia.org/resources/publications/118-downloadable-disability-access-symbols

Employ Outside the Box

Employ Outside the Box is a series of publications to encourage businesses to diversify their workforce. By providing a clear business case and a systematic approach to internal procedures, the guides help businesses to hire people with disability, mature-age workers, Indigenous Australians and other categories of people with skills to offer. https://www.acci.asn.au/program/employ-outside-box

Get Ready Workbook Series

The NDCO program has developed a series of workbooks for young people with disability, a chronic medical condition or a mental health condition to help plan life after school. These workbooks are based on the top ten tips for moving into post school education, training and employment pathways.  They contain practical activities, facts on rights and responsibilities, useful links and more! There are three workbooks: Get Ready – Top Tips for Students with Disability; Get Ready – Top Tips for ATSI Students with Disability & Get Ready – A Guide for Parents. The workbooks are FREE to download and can be progressively completed electronically and saved to a computer.  There is also a plain text version for users of assistive technology and an Easy English version of the Student and ATSI workbook for people with low literacy or language skills. You can download all versions at www.westernsydney.edu.au/ndco/

Person-Centred Practice across Cultures resources

Person-Centred Practice Across Cultures is a series of resources focusing on the crucial importance of cultural awareness and sensitivity in disability support and service delivery.  There are 14 workbooks to assist you to be sensitive to and maximise cultural and linguistic diversity in your work. They cover issues such as choice and control for CALD customers, attracting people, engaging with local communities, bilingual workers and interpreters, and the business case for culturally-sensitive service delivery. The Person-Centred Practice Across Cultures project was designed by futures upfront for NDS. Funding was provided by the NSW Department of Family and Community Services, Ageing, Disability and Home Care.

Supporting tertiary students with ASD

Information for university and TAFE students diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), their parents, and tertiary staff interested in learning more about ASD. This information pertains to supporting students with an ASD in academic settings and comes from a variety of sources including local and international information, peer reviewed research and research conducted at OTARC (funded by DHS, Victoria).  The information provided is general and not targeted for specific tertiary institutions.  http://www.latrobe.edu.au/otarc/families-individuals/support

Consultation Overview – Victorian State Disability Plan 2017-2020

The Victorian Government consulted with a wide range of stakeholders to develop the Victorian State Disability Plan 2017-2020.  The Consultation overview provides a summary of key ideas that emerged from a formal consultation period that ran for six weeks from May to July 2016. The key ideas are presented by the themes of the discussion paper that was released as part of the formal consultation.  To assess the Consultation Overview please visit: http://www.statedisabilityplan.vic.gov.au/consultation-overview

Victorian NDCO’s

The NDCO Program works strategically to assist people with disability access, and participate in ‘Tertiary Education’ and subsequent employment, through a national network of regionally based NDCOs. There are 31 NDCO regions in Australia with 7 in Victoria. Each NDCO region has an Advisory Committee with representation from key regional stakeholders. In Victoria the NDCO program has also established a state network to work on collaborative state priorities.  You can access contact to all Victorian NDCO’s via the state website: www.ndcovictoria.net.au

ASPIE EMPLOYEES (Jeanette Purkis 2014)

Some people call Asperger’s syndrome a disability or a deficit.  Some of them think that people on the Autism spectrum are incapable of doing all the things that other people can do, like going to mainstream school, socialising, having empathy, playing sport or working.  This is not a very helpful way of treating people on the Autism spectrum and sometimes it can pull us down and make us feel inadequate.  There is another way of looking at this issue and that is that we can do anything we choose to.  Our Aspie thinking styles and understanding of life are actually positive attributes which others value.  Qualities like honesty, dedication, loyalty and integrity are very common among people with Autism, and almost everyone, Autie or otherwise, values these qualities in a friends or in an employee.  There are examples of people on the Autism spectrum doing all sorts of things that people might not expect them to be able to do.  Asperger’s is not necessarily a disability; its just a different way of processing information and approaching the world.  Often what makes it a disability is the attitudes of other people and society generally.  If everybody in the world had Aspergers, the world would still function.  It would function in a different way to what happens now, but it would still work!

Author:  Jeanette Purkis (2014) – The Wonderful World of Work – A workbook for Asperteens

You can buy the whole book from the following websites:

http://www.booktopia.com.au/the-wonderful-world-of-work-jeanette-purkis/prod9781849054997.html

http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Wonderful-World-Work-Asperteens/dp/1849054991

Jeanette has also published “Finding a Different Kind of Normal – Misadventures with Asperger Syndrome” available online.

 

 

The Human Library … where the Books are Alive

As part of International Day of People with Disability, the City of Greater Geelong is hosting the “Human Library …where the books are alive”. The Human Library brings people together and invites them to have a one-to-one conversation about the lived experience of disability.  It’s a great way to break down barriers, encourage understanding and learn about the impact of disability. How it works The Human Library works in the same way as a regular library but instead of borrowing a book, visitors borrow a person, that is a Living Book.  They can then have a direct, one to one conversation with the Living Book as a way of learning more about disability. Details can be found in the International Day of People with Disability 2015 Program. For further information, contact Sandra Muratti.

The Committee for Portland in partnership with the Glenelg Transition Action Network, NDCO and United Way”

Presents

Free Community Breakfast with the focus of

“Employ-Ability, the benefits of employing people with disability”

With Special Guest Don Elgin, World Athletic Champion, Paralympian, motivator and larrikin!

Thursday November 19th at Richmond Henty Blue Room

7.15am for a 7.30am start

RSVP essential

Each year the Committee for Portland hosts a free Community Breakfast, this year they have worked together with Glenelg Transition Action Network and with funding from United Way, to add an important and inspirational message to the event.

Employing people with a disability delivers many rewards for the employee and it can have a wonderful impact on your business, your staff and your customers.

To help deliver this message the Community Breakfast will include a special Guest speaker Don Elgin.  Don represented Australia in the athletics at four World Championships, three Paralympic Games, two World Cups and a Commonwealth Games.

Don is living proof that with the right attitude, anything is possible. Having excelled in elite sport and mixed it with some of the biggest names in the film industry, he creates powerful, tailor made presentations based on his real life experience. Don takes his audience behind the scenes on his extraordinary journey from little bush battler to world record beater.   This boy from the bush delivers – he is entertaining, motivational and an all round larrikin.

The Glenelg Transition Action Network (GTAN) came together in early 2013, facilitated by the Glenelg and Southern Grampians LLEN.  The GTAN identified that a number of young people with disabilities in the region do not take up the opportunity for further education or work after school, and that there was a need to locally establish a group to put local strategies in place to help address this issue.

So, working together with the Committee for Portland, United Way and GTAN members including representatives from GSG LLEN , NDCO, Kyeema, WDEA, South West TAFE, Portland Bay School, Westvic, Bayview College, Portland Secondary College, Heywood District Secondary College, DHS and Glenelg Shire Council are presenting this year’s community breakfast with a clear  focus on:  Employ-Ability , the benefits of employing people with disability”

With the recent focus on the Melbourne Cup, people will not be forgetting the name Michelle and Steve Payne in a hurry.     It is a wonderful story in many ways, but one highlight is how it demonstrates that if we focus on the abilities of people who have a disability, we can provide great employment opportunities and undeniably a feeling of confidence, belonging and pride to the employee.

Many local employers have already acted on this opportunity, they have identified suitable roles/tasks within their workplace and have employed a person with a disability.  The benefits are clear to everyone involved business owners, staff, customers and the greater community.

Quotes regarding the event:
Pam Anderson National Disability Coordination Officer for western Victoria and GTAN committee member stated; “Employing people with disability is the right thing to do. Not because it’s right in the moral sense (although it is!), rather because it’s right in the business sense. It is an accepted fact that diverse businesses are more likely to innovate and thrive. Australia’s businesses can no longer expect to find the right people for their business while ignoring one in five possible star employees.  Diversity comes with fully inclusive employment practices and being a disability-confident organisation is the key to success… remember we are all human beings who have a need to feel part of something, something that helps us feel wanted and trusted.”  

Anne Murphy , Executive Officer from GSG LLEN ” Thanks to our community partners who have worked together to build opportunities and have provided this excellent opportunity to explore potential employment opportunities for young people with a disability. This will greatly assist in building more pathways for our young people.”

Anita Rank, Executive Officer from the Committee for Portland Stated “The Committee for Portland has a role to play with regards to creating more jobs that helps families, that builds a town and enables the development of other activities. We are delighted to facilitate this opportunity for business to learn more about how they can employ people with a disability, in the end it can be a win for win for everyone”.

Nicole Angelino, Executive Officer, United Way Glenelg :  “We hope the community breakfast will encourage positive partnerships with local employees to reduce barriers facing young people with a disability.  “Australian studies (Deakin 2002) have shown that on average employing a person with a disability does not cost any more than employing people without a disability. People with a disability deserve the opportunity to achieve genuine and fulfilling careers.”

Wunga Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Flexible Support Program

Aborigines Advancement League Inc.

Disability Support Program

What is the Disability Support Program?

The Disability Program is provided in partnership between the Northern Metropolitan Department of Human Services and the AALI.

The AALI Disability Program has been developed to assist Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families in the North and Western Region to access support services, for their family members or themselves, to support in managing the complexities of caring for people with disabilities.

Within the AALI Disability Program, three (3) types of support programs are currently delivered:

• Flexible Support Packages, also known as the Wunga Program
• Individual Support Packages (ISP), and
• Short Term Assistance Packages (STAP)

What is Wunga?

The Wunga Program is focused on providing client and family focused case management with a limit of 12 packages at any one time, that encourages:

• improvement in quality of life
• maintain and enhance independence and mobility,
• support access to community and social activities, and
• support families in maintaining their family structure and environment while providing care.
• respect to the privacy and confidentiality of clients

What is an Individual Support Package?  (ISP)

The Individual Support Packages are available through the Department of Human Services to individuals and assists in the purchasing of support equipment and services that encourages;

• Client’s to determine their support needs and goals,
• maintain and enhance independence and mobility,
• support access to community and social activities, and
• support family and carers that they can continue in their caring role

The Aborigines Advancement League Disability Program can assist in providing referrals to this program and support any follow up required.

What do we do?

The AALI Disability Program provides;

• intake and assessment for Wunga Packages,
• develop care and support plans in consultation with the client.
• implement and monitor the care and support plans with the client.
• assist in the referral to other disability services where the AALI is not able to provide assistance or a particular disability service,
• coordinating of services where multiple services providers are involved in the care of the client,
• advocacy to other providers.

Eligibility:

To be eligible to access AALI Disability Program the following criteria must be met:

• Person requiring support is of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent,
• is between the ages of 6 and 65,
• has complex support needs as a result of a disability diagnosis by medical practitioners,
• the disability is categorised as; intellectual, physical, sensory, neurological or an acquired brain injury (ABI),
• the person requiring support resides within the Northern Metropolitan regions as set by the Department of Human Services

For more information please contact:

Aborigines Advancement League Inc.

2 Watt Street, Thornbury 3071

PH: (03) 9480 7777

Email: reception@aal.org.au

 

 

 

Koorie Kids with Special Needs Magazine- First Edition – Victorian Aboriginal Indigenous Education Association Incorporated (VAEAI)

VAEAI has just released their first magazine focusing completely on the support available for Koorie children and young people with a disability and/or special needs.  This is a magazine for families, for community members and for anyone who is interested in finding out more about the programs, services and assistance available.

In 2014, with funding from the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet, VAEAI began looking at developing resources to support Koorie families who have children with special needs.

With the help of a steering committee of Koorie parents/caregivers, and the advice of representatives from organisations working in the field of disability, VAEAI developed a radio show which airs fortnightly on 3KND, called Koorie Kids with Special Needs.  The radio show features parents/caregivers talking about their experiences and what works for them, as well as organisations talking about programs and supported.  The radio show has been a great success and will continue to air on 3KND in 2015/2016.  What was discovered is there is a need to promote the assistance available to Koorie communities because there is help available, but not everyone knows about how to access that help.

So complement what VAEAI is doing with the radio show, they created the first Koorie Kids with Special Needs magazine.  VAEAI hope to promote the great work that Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal organisations are doing to support Koorie Kids with Special Needs and also hope that the parent/caregiver stories featured in the magazine will give confidence to other parents who may be starting out in seeking support for their child.  Being a parent is challenging work, and having a child with special needs adds some extra challenges, but with the right assistance your child can thrive and achieve the best education outcomes possible.

For information about the magazine and to order some copies please visit: www.vaeai.org.au or contact your local Wurreker Broker.

Koorie Kids with Special Needs RADIO SHOW!

Every Thursday 12-1 pm

In September 2014, VAEAI began broadcasting the Koorie Kids with Special Needs Radio Program from 1503 AM 3KND….

What they are doing is talking to parents and caregivers of Koorie Children who have special needs.  They are talking about their experiences and how they accessed support for their kids.  The show also talks to people working in the field of disability about the range of programs that are on offer for kids with special needs.

3KND broadcaster Garry Hansen hosts the program. 

The show is very appreciative of all Koorie parents and disability support professionals who come in to share their knowledge.  They hope that other families listening in will get useful advice and know that there is support available for their child.

TUNE IN EVERY THURSDAY 12 PM – 1503 AM 3KND STREAMING RADIO!

Visit online at: www.3knd.org.au

If you are a parent/caregiver of a Koorie child who has special needs and would like to share your story VAEAI would love to hear from you.

Please get in touch with Vaso Elefsiniotis at VAEAI on 03 9481 0800 or email vaso@vaeai.org.au  You can also contact VAEAI on Facebook at www.facebook.com/vaeai

Remember:  Support is available….

Data suggests that Koorie people are under-using disability support services that are available in Victoria, in comparison to non-Koorie people.

There are a number of possible reasons for this:

• Cultural reasons: Koorie people rely on family support, rather than support services
• Not being comfortable/familiar with accessing services
• Underdiagnosis/misdiagnosis of disability and additional needs

It is important for Koorie families to know that they have a right to access services that are welcoming and culturally appropriate.  There are a number of guiding documents that set down the rights of people with disability, some of them are:

• UN Convention on the Rights of People with Disabilities (2007)
• Victorian Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities Act (2006)
• http://www.justice.vic.gov.au/home/your+rights/human+rights/human+rights+charter/
• Victorian Disabilities Act (2006)
• http://www.justice.vic.gov.au/home/your+rights/human+rights/human+rights+charter/

And for rights of First Peoples:

• Victorian Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities (2006)
• United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Persons (2007)

Region 16 UpdatesHi Everyone, this blog is to provide information about workshops the NDCO is attending at the NATSIEC Conference this week….. The following is a summary of the sessions attended today (Wednesday 11th November 2015)

Summary of Wednesday morning session at NATSIEC:

Workshop 1: Providing a Culturally Appropriate Technology Platform to improve Aboriginal Student Education and Training Outcomes (Aaron Hughes, Des Barton and Lyn Brown)

• Setting SMART goal mentoring and coaching students
• Goals are set at a child’s learning capacity and is achievable
• SMS Messages of your child’s achievements are quickly sent to parents/guardians
• Mum and Dad get great messages to talk to their child when they get home from school
• Creates a very positive environment both at school and home
• Transfers from year to year, school to school and teacher to teacher
• A private timeline/record of achievements and future aspirations are recorded in the one place
• Records achievements over time
• Similar to Facebook but not open to general public
• Within the teacher portal there is an activity feed of all students interactions
• Teachers can search on any student to see their achievements and can then notify parents by SMS
• Manage multiple students and classes from one screen
• Enables teachers to see any students achievements from any class
• Teachers can also reset student passwords if they forget or lose them
• The Community Engagement Tool is a way for schools and community to connect with cultural stories and community needs
• Creates a platform full of culturally appropriate content which supports all Australians in foundational knowledge about Aboriginal Australia.
• A great platform and resource for new teachers and students.
• Predominate usage along the New South Wales Coast with 30 schools currently using the website.
• Values: Provide students with an opportunity to discover more about their identity that builds self-esteem and confidence and is a personalised learning platform.  Collaborate with students parents and guardians as students transition from year to year, school to school, teachers to teacher on their individual pathways plans.  Fosters excellent partnerships with community.

To find out more go to: www.mgoals.com.au and select signup then select the tools you would like to use.  A representative will then contact you and assist with all of the relevant information and support required to get going.  This portal is free for all schools and students – not just Indigenous!

Workshop 2: Koorie Academy of Excellence (VAEAI) Michael Donovan

Purpose of the KAE:

• Assists Koorie students to successfully complete Year 12 and/or further study
• Develop leadership capabilities
• Deepen cultural understanding and connection

About KAE:

• Year 7 students through to Year 12
• Currently 70 members from 27 schools in Northern suburbs of Melbourne
• Working to develop online community and is a virtual program
• Family inclusiveness and engagement very important
• Committed to retaining students in academy
• For duration of their secondary education over 6 years working and supporting students in University
• All activities are conducted out of school hours
• Managed by KAE Board including Latrobe University, VAEAI, Mission Australia, LAeCG, Parent Rep and Alumni Rep

Destinations of 2014 Year 12 Cohort

• 1 @ Latrobe University
• 1 @ Monash University
• 3 @ RMIT University
• 1 @ TAFE
• 2 Employed full time
• 2 gained traineeships
• 3 gained full time apprenticeships

2 Alumni seeking work at commencement of 2015.  One offered an apprenticeship the other casual work in admin at Latrobe University and is being considered for a communications traineeship.  14 past students now make up 2015 Alumni.

Koorie Academy Liaison Officers (KALOS)

• day to day work with kids and schools
• mentoring
• develop the program
• student support and parental engagement
• school visits
• out of school hours home visits
• attendance
• manage workload out of school commitments

The program:

• Three key areas
• Leadership and cultural immersion
• Focus on academic excellence

Activities of the program include:

• Camps
• Facilitated workplacements
• Leadership in Action dinners with guest speakers
• Family workshops
• Work related programs, short courses and workshops
• Mentoring with University and corporate partners
• University introductions/familiarisation
• Cultural events
• Social events
• 1:1 Mentoring support

KAE Partnerships:

• Latrobe University
• Latrobe University Football Club
• School for Student Leadership
• Rotary
• Microsoft Australia
• Racing Victoria
• Maddocks Lawyers

KAE Supporters:

• KPMG
• Mission Australia
• Ventura Bus Lines
• Infoxchange
• Carlton Football Club

A real spirit of partnerships nurturing the next generation of Indigenous leaders.

Through intense negotiations and partnerships in the region, VAEAI was able to obtain a funding model to deliver the program.  Massive future challenge in funding a sustainable model.

Selection Process for the program: Interviews are held with the family and students to determine commitment to the program.  This is not an elitist academy – it is about community and sometimes can be a leap in faith for parents from bad generational experience with education.

Future of the program: Open to other regions in Victoria and possibly Australia!

Workshop 3:  Girrwaabugany – What Aboriginal students say is the best way to connect with them.
– see this website for powerpoint information

 Girrwaabugany – What Aboriginal students say is the best way to connect with them.(15060 KB)

 

 

FOR YOUR INFORMATION PLEASE SEE BELOW…..Roll out of the NDIS in regional Victoria

Regional Victoria areas

• Central Highlands
• Mallee
• Western district

Central Highlands

The NDIS will become available in the Central Highlands area from 1 January 2017.

The Central Highlands area covers the local government areas of

• Ararat
• Ballarat
• Golden Plains
• Hepburn
• Moorabool
• Pyrenees

Mallee

The NDIS will become available in the Mallee area from 1 January 2019.

The Mallee area covers the local government areas of

• Buloke
• Gannawarra
• Mildura
• Swan Hill

Western district

The NDIS will become available in the Western District area from 1 October 2017.

The Western District area covers the local government areas of

• Corangamite
• Glenelg
• Hindmarsh
• Horsham
• Moyne
• Northern Grampians
• Southern Grampians
• Warrnambool
• West Wimmera
• Yarriambiack

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION VISIT THE FOLLOWING WEBSITE: WWW.NDIS.GOV.AU

Regards

Pam AndersonNational Disability Coordination Officer

Western Victoria Region 16

Mobile: 0418 108 555  Email: pam.anderson@skillsplus.com.au

www.skillsplus.com.au | www.brace.com.au

Welcome to the Spring NDCO Region 16 newsletter. I hope it will keep you updated on the latest news, events and professional development opportunities to support the very vital work you do to support people with disabilities. Follow

Yours Sincerely

Pam Anderson

NDCO Region 16 – Western Victoria

Email: pam.anderson@skillsplus.com.au

Mobile: 0418 108 555

http://www.ndcovictoria.net.au/region-16

Victorian NDCO’s

The NDCO Program works strategically to assist people with disability access, and participate in ‘Tertiary Education’ and subsequent employment, through a national network of regionally based NDCOs. There are 31 NDCO regions in Australia with 7 in Victoria. Each NDCO region has an Advisory Committee with representation from key regional stakeholders. In Victoria the NDCO program has also established a state network to work on collaborative state priorities.  You can access contact to all Victorian NDCO’s via the state website: www.ndcovictoria.net.au

NDCO Western Victoria happenings….

Passport 2 Employment Program 2017

The Passport 2 Employment program has been delivered in Portland, Hamilton, Warrnambool, Geelong and Ballarat this term to eighty five students from local secondary and special schools. We are amazed every year how these special young people participate with such enthusiasm and willingness to learn about life after school.

If you are interested in attending a graduation in your area, please see below dates and venues. Special thanks to Glenelg Southern Grampians LLEN, Geelong Region LLEN, Highlands LLEN, South West LLEN, South West TAFE, Gordon TAFE and the many school support staff and stakeholders involved with planning and coordinating the program.

Warrnambool: Monday 4^th September 2017, 6pm-7.30pm Level 3, South West TAFE, Timor Street

Ballarat: Thursday 7^th September 2017, 5.30pm-7pm, Federation College Atrium, Grant Street, Ballarat

Geelong: Friday 8^th September 2017, 6pm-7.30pm, Gordon TAFE Gallery, 2 Fenwick Street, Geelong

Hamilton: Tuesday 19^th September 2017, 12.45pm-2.45pm, South West TAFE, Ballarat Road, Hamilton

Portland: Wednesday 20^th September 2017, 12.00pm-2pm, South West TAFE, Hurd Street, Portland

Wan-Yaari Aboriginal Cultural Awareness Training, Geelong

Wan-Yaari are excited to be offering a Professional Development opportunity in Aboriginal Cultural Awareness training in Geelong. The following topics will be covered in the training session:

• Welcome to Country & Acknowledgment of Country examples and definitions
• Historical Timelines
• Aboriginal Identity: Pre & Post Colonisation
• Aboriginal Maps of Victoria/Australia
• Overview of government policies and initiatives
• Stolen Generations
• Strategies to improve engagement and working relationships with Aboriginal clients, families and community groups
• Group interactive activities

This four hour Aboriginal cultural awareness training is available for individuals or work teams to attend as a professional development session.

Session details:

When: Tuesday 19^th September 2017

Time: 10.30am – 3.00 pm (lunch provided)

Venue: Wurdee Youang Road, Barwon Water Geelong

Cost: $190+ GST & booking fee

Bookings essential.

To register please click on the link below

https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/wan-yaari-professional-development-aboriginal-cultural-awareness-training-tickets-37230337943

Indigenous Cultural Awareness

Just something a little bit different and worth considering re cultural awareness training was the recent high-lighting of the ‘Colonial Frontier Massacres in Eastern Australia 1788-1872’.

To access the interactive map courtesy Newcastle University, click here: https://c21ch.newcastle.edu.au/colonialmassacres/map.php

Yarn Up Service providers and Community Research Project, University of Western Sydney

NDCO Western Victoria in partnership with Karen Soldatic from the University of Western Sydney will be holding “Yarn Up” discussions as part of a research project, funded by the Australian Research Council, with full ethics approval from Western Sydney University: Disability Income Reform and Regional Australia: The Indigenous Experience. Karen will be conducting the interviews, a researcher with the Institute for Culture and Society, Western Sydney University.

Any information people provide is strictly confidential. Personal and Professional details, such as name, position and organization remain anonymous throughout the project.  

We are holding two separate talks, one for service providers and one for members of our ATSI community.  Community members will received a gift card for attending.  Details as follows:

Yarn Up – Community Talk

The project wants to learn about your experience of the Disability Support Pension or NewStart in particular the amount of paperwork involved. Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people are strongly encouraged to attend.  Non-Aboriginal people with a disability are also welcome to attend but bookings are essential.

When: Tuesday, 17^th October 2017

Time: 10.30 am – 12 noon

Meeting Place: Deakin Cats Community Centre, Skilled Stadium, Geelong

Come for lunch from 12 noon to 1 pm. 

PLACES ARE LIMITED TO 20 PEOPLE

(You will receive a $20 Gift Card for participating!)

PLEASE RSVP TO PAM ANDERSON, BY FRIDAY 13 OCTOBER TO:

pam.anderson@skillsplus.com.au

Yarn Up – Service Provider Talk

Disability & Income Payments

Do you work with people with disability?

Do they receive a disability support pension?

Are they are on NewStart even though they have a disability?

Have you helped someone apply for a disability pension?

This project wants to learn about the impact of changes to the Disability Support Pension and NewStart Allowance for Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander people living with Disability.

When:  Wednesday 18^th October 2017

Time: 10.30 am – 12 noon

Meeting Place: Deakin Cats Community Centre,

Skilled Stadium, Geelong

After the discussion, a Lunch will be provided from: 12 noon to 1 pm. 

PLEASE RSVP TO PAM ANDERSON, BY FRIDAY 13 OCTOBER TO:

pam.anderson@skillsplus.com.au

Enhancing the Links – A FREE Workshop for school staff (Careers/Pathways/Integration) Supporting Students with Disability

Enhancing the Links workshop is brought to you by the NDCO program Region 12 and Region 16 (Western Melbourne and Western Victoria) for careers, pathways, and Integration staff supporting students with disability transitioning from secondary school.  By attending this workshop you will be provided with current and relevant information about the various post-school pathways for students with disability; hear from guest speaker Daniel Giles (Speakers Bank) about autism and his career journey; be given the opportunity to workshop challenges and share ideas; be provided with a record of VIT professional development and take away an NDCO resource pack.

Enhancing the Links will be held at Werribee Learning Centre, 9 Bridge Street, Werribee on Friday 27^th October 2017 from 10am-2pm.  To register please contact Pam Anderson on 0418 108 555 or email pam.anderson@skillsplus.com.au  An Eventbrite link will also be available to register.

Nelson Park Special School – Futures Expo

NDCO Western Victoria in partnership with Nelson Park Year 10-12 Campus, Illinois Avenue, Corio are organising the “Futures Expo 2017” (Post School Information Evening) for students/families from Years 10-12 on Thursday 12^th October 2017 from 5.30 – 7.30 pm. The aim of the Expo is to inform students and families of different options available once students complete year 12.  The idea of the night is to introduce/reintroduce students and families to some of the possibilities the students have once they have left secondary school.  To register please contact Pam Anderson on 0418108555 or email: pam.anderson@skillsplus.com.au .

Youth Disability Advocacy Service (YDAS), NDCO Regions 15 and 16 on the Road – Mildura Swan Hill

NDCO’s Mark Cottee (Northern Victoria) and Pam Anderson (Western Victoria) in partnership with the Youth Disability Advocacy Service (YDAS) will be delivering two NDIS 101 and Assistive Technology workshops at SuniTAFE, Mildura and Swan Hill Campus on Tuesday 14^th and Wednesday 15^th of November, 2017.  These workshops will be FREE for all students, parents and teachers.

To register your attendance or for further information, contact Pam Anderson on 0418108555 or email: pam.anderson@skillsplus.com.au

NDCO Latest News

National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)

Vic West Engagement Team:

1 October 2017 is a very significate date for the NDIA with full scheme beginning transition in Wimmera South West.  We are currently in planning stages for the Mallee which is scheduled to roll out 1^st January 2019. Engagement will begin in this area approximately 9 months prior to roll out.

Our website has various resources available which will assist the schools in preparing for the NDIS. Our participant pathway booklet (http://www.ndis.gov.au/participants/planning-process ) is our latest resource which explains the NDIS process.

We also have our NDIS ready page (http://www.ndis.gov.au/ndis-ready ) which is another helpful resource with videos explaining the process. This page also has plenty of resources which will assist. We also have various fact sheets and publications explaining the scheme (http://www.ndis.gov.au/people-disability/fact-sheets-and-publications). I have also attached our NDIS Ready Toolkit for your information.

There are a number of information sessions that are held in various states of Australia. These can be found here http://www.ndis.gov.au/news/events

 

Principles to determine the responsibilities of the NDIS & other Service Systems

All governments have agreed that our vision is for an inclusive Australian society that enables people with disability to fulfil their potential as equal citizens. To achieve this vision, all Australian governments, non-government organisations, business and the wider community have a role to play.

The interactions of the NDIS with other service systems will reinforce the obligations of other service delivery systems to improve the lives of people with disability, in line with the National Disability Strategy. To view this document go to:

https://static1.squarespace.com/static/57c65af5cd0f68b1295663dc/t/586092084402439b0c8370ab/1482723859121/NDIS+-+Principles+to+Determine+Responsibilities+NDIS+and+Other+Service+Systems+-+Revised+27+Nov+2015+%281%29.pdf

NDIS Appeals service

AMIDA now offers free support to anyone who would like to challenge a decision made by the NDIS. This could include someone who has been denied access to the NDIS, or any NDIS participant who is unhappy with their plan. If you’d like some postcards about the NDIS Appeals service, please send your postal address to Kathryn, the NDIS Appeals Support Advisor, at appeals@amida.org.au, and let her know how many you need.

If you have any questions about the service, or would like to organize a short NDIS Appeals training session for a disability group you are in, email Kathryn at appeals@amida.org.au or call: 03 9650-2722. You can find more information about the service and resources to help you plan for the NDIS here: http://www.amida.org.au/membership/ndisappeals/

What is a LAC?

Local Area Coordinators (LACs) are local organisations who have partnered with the NDIA to deliver the NDIS. For a majority of participants, LACs will work with you to develop your plan, implement and monitor, plus link you to community services. Find out more via https://www.ndis.gov.au/communities/local-area-coordination

ILC National Readiness Grants

The next round of Information, Linkages and Capacity Building (ILC) National Readiness Grants is open…..The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) is now accepting applications for ILC National Readiness Grants (Round 2) in Activity Area One – Information, linkages and referrals.Applications for this round will close 2pm AEST on Friday 29 September 2017. Up to $30.08 million of funding is available over 2017-18 and 2018-19 for this round. Organisations can apply for grants of up to 2 years. You can apply through the ILC Grants page on the NDIS website. https://www.ndis.gov.au/communities/nr-grants.html?utm_source=Information%2C+Linkages+and+Capacity+Building+updates&utm_campaign=83ed5bbd5e-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2017_08_17&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_09639bbccd-83ed5bbd5e-51045297

Tips, Tools & Websites

Employability Curriculum Linked to the ‘Employability DVD’

In 2017 the film ‘Employability’ was produced by Debbie-Ann Johnson, from Sale & District Specialist School, Andrea McCall-Evans from NDCO and Leanne Wishart, Rural Access, Wellington Shire. Darryl Whitaker was our cameraman and donated some of the time to help edit the film. The film would not have been possible without the grant from the Commonwealth Bank; we thank them for their generous donation. The film focusses on the eight employability skills and features a number of young people with disabilities in the workplace.

The Employability Curriculum can be downloaded from the NDCO Website PDF – www.ndcovictoria.net.au

The employability DVD’s can be found as follows:

Whole Film -all eight skills https://youtu.be/vGjNI16pxn8

Communication https://youtu.be/4-vwF4DVAzM

Teamwork https://youtu.be/SJxeSEndST0

Problem solving https://youtu.be/kIysQa3z1Q4

Initiative and enterprise https://youtu.be/zF5uWlKgkwI

Planning and organising https://youtu.be/u1Cc98TTXcc

Learning https://youtu.be/Pi5kqlcwvKU

Technology https://youtu.be/Srv94j3WddY

Self-management www.youtube.com/watch?v=uOBoP0qoFmM

New Resources Intellectual Disability 3DN

3DN has launched new practical tools and resources designed to enhance the skills of professionals and carers who support people with an intellectual disability. The new resources were officially launched on 25 July 2017 by the Hon. Tanya Davies, Minister for Mental Health at a Research to Action Day which was sponsored by NSW Health, and Ageing, Disability & Home Care, Family and Community Services. The resources that were launched included:

–       The Intellectual Disability Mental Health Core Competency Framework: A Practical Toolkit for Mental Health Professionals

–       New e-Learning modules for disability professionals, carers and mental health professionals

–       Podcasts on responsible prescribing to people with an intellectual disability for health and mental health professionals

–       A new Positive Cardio metabolic Health for People with Intellectual Disability e-Learning moduleaimed at health professionals

More information about intellectual disability resources can be found at 3DN’s website https://3dn.unsw.edu.au/

In the News

University Specialist Employment Partnerships (USEP)

University Specialist Employment Partnerships (USEP) is an NDCO driven pilot project to place an employment consultant on University campuses, supporting graduates with disability to find a career.  This includes linkages with employers, assistance with disclosure of disability and negotiation of adjustments, assistance with applications, brokerage of work experience and internships as required.  It is available in a limited fashion while in trial phase.

We welcome expressions of interest from students outside of trial locations to give us an indication of where this type of service may be in demand. https://www.usep.com.au/. To help promote USEP and promoting improvements on graduate employment for university students with disability, Sam has shared his story as a recent pharmacist graduate and his quest for work so far. Can we ask you to leverage your social media to share or support this – it is on:

Facebook: @USEPau – https://www.facebook.com/USEPau/

YouTube: NDCO Program Channel – https://youtu.be/L8HQme4gGBw

Twitter: https://twitter.com/DarleneMcLennan/status/899471231228956673

NCVER VET DATA 2016

NCVER have just released the data on VET enrolments for 2016 and it was good to see there is an increase in enrolments from SWDs. Students with disability increased by 1.8% to an estimated 180 400 students, representing 4.3% of total estimated students. See report here:

https://www.ncver.edu.au/publications/publications/all-publications/total-vet-students-and-courses-2016#

Reports / Research

Held back: The experiences of students with disabilities in Victorian schools Analysis paper July 2017

A Commission report into the experience of students with disabilities in Victorian schools has found that there have been significant policy developments and action but more work is required to measure and ensure real change for students.

The report details the progress made by the Department of Education and Training on the Commission’s recommendations made in its ground breaking 2012 research report Held back: the experiences of students with disabilities in Victorian schools.

This report draws on an analysis of information and engagement with the Department and other key stakeholders.

http://www.humanrightscommission.vic.gov.au/home/our-resources-and-publications/reports/item/1602-held-back-the-experiences-of-students-with-disabilities-in-victorian-schools-analysis-paper

HEPPP: The Australian student equity program and institutional change: paradigm shift or business as usual?

A report by NCSEHE Equity Fellow Dr Nadine Zacharias from Deakin University examined how the HEPPP initiative had been implemented by universities and whether it had met government aspirations for achieving student equity in higher education. This Australian-first comprehensive analysis of the Higher Education Participation and Partnerships Program (HEPPP) has informed recommendations for systemic change in policy and practice in student equity, which complements the current HEPPP review report, and could be a valuable contribution to the forthcoming national evaluation framework.

https://www.ncsehe.edu.au/publications/the-australian-student-equity-programme-and-institutional-change-paradigm-shift-or-business-as-usual/

NCSEHE: Successful outcomes for students with disability in Australian higher education

This evidence-based resource collates NCSEHE funded research to inform policy and practice and improve outcomes for equity students in Australian higher education.   Current research outlined in this paper includes a focus on sub-groups of students with a disability, such as Indigenous students and students on the Autism Spectrum, which not only deals with issues facing these particular groups, but which reinforces the variety, range and individuality of students with a disability.

https://www.ncsehe.edu.au/ncsehe-focus-successful-outcomes-students-disability-australian-higher-education/

Study underlines usefulness of lecture captions for all students

A 2017 study by Curtin University in Australia examines the benefits of captioning lecture capture recordings as a mainstream learning tool, with reference to inclusive teaching practice and the fulfilment of universities’ legal responsibility to provide equal access for all students.

http://www.ai-media.tv/study-shows-lecture-captions-benefit-students/

Barriers people with an ASD face outside of university

Universities across the board are experiencing an increase in the number of students requesting mental health support, and a similar rise is being seen in the number of students accessing support for autism spectrum conditions. Our executive director, Eileen Hopkins, considers those whose condition prevents them entering higher education.

http://www.ai-media.tv/what-about-the-young-people-with-an-asd-not-going-to-university/

The Brotherhood’s response to Senate Inquiry into delivery of outcomes under the National Disability Strategy 2010–2020

Enabling people with disability to participate fully in society requires investment in advocacy and in community supports, in the Brotherhood’s view. This involves more than service delivery, in order to position people as active members of local social and cultural networks. Read via: Response to Senate Inquiry into delivery of outcomes under the National Disability Strategy 2010-20: http://library.bsl.org.au/jspui/bitstream/1/9843/1/BSL_response_Senate_Inquiry_outcomes_under_National_Disability_Strategy_Apr2017.pdf

Conferences, Workshops, Forums and Training

Amaze Online Training – Autism & Positive Behaviour Support

Access training at anytime from anywhere with Amaze flexible online autism training courses. You are able to purchase, complete and review your courses at any time with a certificate offered on completion. Also – try the Myth Busters Course FREE and have a look at the learning centre. At the same time, you will discover some of the common myths surrounding autism.

Autism: Diagnosis and History

This is a 1-hour introductory course which will provide you with an understanding of:

What autism spectrum disorder is

Understand the recent changes in the diagnostic criteria

Understand how sensory processing differences impact a person when engaged with environment

Develop an understanding of the impact of the history autism has on people and their families

Understand the diagnostic process for children, youths and adults

General Price $65 incl. GST per person

Amaze Member Price incl. $45 per person

Introduction to Positive Behaviour Support

This 1-hour course will introduce you to the concepts of:

The differences between behaviour and behaviours of concern

Understanding and applying positive behaviour support/Describing behaviour

The functions of behaviour/Recording and monitoring behaviour/ Behaviour support plans/Your legislative and ethical requirements regarding restrictive interventions

Regular price: $65 Amaze Member’s price: $45 per person

For more information about Amaze Online Training visit: http://www.amaze.org.au/discover/howwe-can-help-you/amaze-training/

Free Webinars – Learning Differences and Dyslexia in High Schools

The Learning Difference Convention is proud to offer a series of 9 FREE webinars over 9 days.  Presentations by international experts working with the British Dyslexia Association towards international dyslexia awareness. The box set and PDFs will be available for purchase after the last webinar on the 12 September. Post NAPLAN reflection for teachers, parents and students

Dates: 4 September to 12 September 2017

To register go to: http://www.learningdifferenceconvention.com/webinars/

Strengthening Disability Advocacy Conference 2017      

Getting into gear for the NDIS journey will feature a keynote address and facilitated panel discussions looking back on the journey so far, how well the principles of choice and control are being embedded in NDIS policy and processes and what road blocks to avoid on the road ahead. The conference will be held at NAB – Docklands on Thursday 14th and 15th September 2017. For more information and to register: http://www.daru.org.au/event/strengthening-disability-advocacy-conference-2017

Disability Awareness is an important part of establishing real inclusion for people with disabilities. It is the first step in overcoming any concerns or stereotypes that you may have interacting with people who have a disability. Become more informed with this FREE, self-paced introduction to disability and discover inclusive practices for the workplace and the community. Start your FREE Disability Awareness Training today: www.disabilityawareness.com.au

Vision Australia’s Building Stronger Futures Program for Youth – 15-24 years

Vision Australia, in collaboration with the Empowering Youth Initiative (EYI), is pleased to announce the launch of an exciting national employment skills program for youth, Building Stronger Futures.  Over the next 18 months, the programs will be delivered in various locations across Australia. The program involves a three week face-to-face interactive skills development program, followed by job placement and problem solving assistance for six months. During this time, participants will receive:

• Advice on career pathways and job seeking techniques
• Cover letter and resume writing advice
• Addressing employment issues specific to vision impairment
• Interview skills development and coaching
• Networking and matching your skills to an employer’s needs

If you are blind or have low vision and aged between 15 and 24 years inclusive, not currently in secondary education and are willing and motivated to gain employment then this program is for you.

Express your interest now:

Contact: Belinda Wilson

Email: Belinda.wilson@visionaustralia.org

Phone: 03 8378 1223

Understanding Disability Workshops

Horsham Special School invites school staff, parents, carers, other professionals and community members to participate in workshops that focus on developing a deeper understanding of students with a disability. The free workshops will be facilitated by Principal Matt Copping and participants are welcome to attend one, some or all. These are fantastic workshops and all participants will receive a Certificate towards VIT registration. Click here for more information: https://gallery.mailchimp.com/fa963480523b28cb589d691fc/images/eabae5f1-b933-4eb2-8a52-782c28d04f22.jpg?utm_source=Test+List&utm_campaign=7b2a117b8f-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2017_08_22&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_2914817b8a-7b2a117b8f-308045133

Disability Employment Australia’s Annual Conference 2017

Disability Employment Australia’s Annual Conference is Australasia’s premier conference for managers, practitioners, and academics working in or with the Disability Employment Services sector. This year’s conference will be held in Brisbane on the 6th and 7th of September 2017. For more information and to registrar: http://dea.conferenceworks.com.au/

___________________________________________________________________________________________ Tips, Tools & Websites

What It’s Really Like To Live With A Disability

A really good article by the Future for young Adults (fya).

http://www.fya.org.au/2015/11/18/what-its-really-like-to-live-with-a-disability/

SIMPLIFI is a new accessible app that can help people with disability find the planning support they need as they begin to plan to access the NDIS. SIMPLIFI contains prompter questions for people with disability and their carers, which can be used in support meetings, discussions and planning sessions.The app’s intention is not to answer questions but rather build confidence in posing questions as part of the planning process.

The app features six domains that users can access to browse the database of questions. It is also possible to search by age, capture notes and save questions for future access.

http://communitynet.ngo/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=74456:simplifi-app-for-people-with-disability&catid=392:resources&utm_source=newsletter_1511&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=communitynet-sector-resources-publication-e-news-15-may-2017

___________________________________________________________________________________________

In the News

13 Reasons Why

This new TV show about youth suicide has become a hot topic around the world. This information sheet from Mental Health First Aid Australia outlines the plot, warnings and important points for discussion.

https://gallery.mailchimp.com/bd618aab747cdfbc9535ac587/files/2393a6e7-42e3-432d-b867-ffbca62a9582/MHFA_Aus_13_Reasons_Why_plot_and_talking_points.pdf

Reports / Resources

The Higher Education Reform Package

The Australian Government has announced a range of reforms they say improve the higher education sector. The report states the reforms will deliver a more sustainable sector, more choices for students and increase transparency and accountability in higher education. To read the full report:

https://docs.education.gov.au/system/files/doc/other/ed17-0138_-_he_-_glossy_budget_report_acc.pdf

Mission Australia and the Black Dog Institute’s joint youth report

A joint report recently released by Mission Australia and the Black Dog Institute shows nearly one in four young people in 2016 met the criteria for probable serious mental illness. To read the full report:

https://www.missionaustralia.com.au/news-blog/blog/the-five-year-youth-mental-health-report-has-launched

Foundation for Young Australasians (fya): The New Work Mindset

There is an urgent need to shift mindsets in our approach to jobs, careers and work. New big data analysis provides us with insights into the patterns of skills young people now require to navigate complex and uncertain working lives. We must act now to ensure young Australians can thrive in the new world of work.To read the full report:

http://www.fya.org.au/report/the-new-work-mindset-report/

Improving outcomes Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islanders with disability

An urgent call for a more just approach to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs. To read the full report:

http://janeprentice.dss.gov.au/media-releases/improving-outcomes-aboriginal-and-torres-strait-islander

Learning Difficulties Australia—Magazine

The Learning Difficulties Australia Bulletin is a magazine-style publication in the area of learning difficulties. For more information: https://www.ldaustralia.org/lda-publications.html

Working with interpreters  

This online learning resource aims to promote and enhance their work with interpreters. For more information: http://www.vtmh.org.au/education-and-training/learnonline

How to get the NDIS on track – NDS paper released

NDS has released the paper ‘How to get the NDIS on track’, as part of its push for the best National Disability Insurance Scheme possible. The paper details recommendations on the way forward for the scheme. It commends the NDIS as the right reform for Australia, but warns that the scale and complexity of implementation is placing great pressure on stakeholders, including service providers. To read the full paper:

https://www.nds.org.au/news/how-to-get-the-ndis-on-track-nds-paper-released

The Australian Disability Clearinghouse on Education and Training (ADCET)

ADCET has resources and tips for anyone working with people with disability in education and training settings.http://www.adcet.edu.au/

Research

Social Marketing Strategy for Low SES Communities

This report outlines the findings of a project ‘Social Marketing Strategy for low SES Communities Research and Strategy Phase’ which was commissioned and funded as part of the Australian Government Department of Education and Training’s National Priorities Pool 2014 round. The objective of the project was to ‘research and design an appropriate, cost effective national social marketing campaign targeted at low socio-economic status (SES) students and communities that will assist universities to increase awareness of, and raise aspiration to, higher education.’ To read the full report: https://www.ncsehe.edu.au/publications/social-marketing-strategy/

Conferences, Workshops, Forums and Training

Disability awareness is an important part of establishing real inclusion for people with disabilities. It is the first step in overcoming any concerns or stereotypes that you may have interacting with people who have a disability. Become more informed with this FREE, self-paced introduction to disability and discover inclusive practices for the workplace and the community. Start your FREE Disability Awareness Training today: www.disabilityawareness.com.au

Employment Support in the NDIS this workshop will provide a comprehensive overview of the emerging disability employment funding landscape, mapping where NDIS meets DES and exploring the emerging opportunities for truly innovative service design. Topics we will cover include:

•What the NDIS will fund in employment (and for whom)?

•Who can become a provider of NDIS employment supports?

•Addressing low expectations of employment outcomes for people with disability

•School Leaver Employment Supports (SLES)

•Global Best Practice & Case Studies

•Strategies for success and first mover advantage

•Marketing your service to NDIS participants and families

To register: http://www.disabilityservicesconsulting.com.au/register

Disability Employment Australia’s Annual Conference 2017

Disability Employment Australia’s Annual Conference is Australasia’s premier conference for managers, practitioners, and academics working in or with the Disability Employment Services sector. This year’s conference will be held in Brisbane on the 6th and 7th of September 2017. For more information and to registrar

: http://dea.conferenceworks.com.au/

Strengthening Disability Advocacy Conference 2017      

Getting into gear for the NDIS journey will feature a keynote address and facilitated panel discussions looking back on the journey so far, how well the principles of choice and control are being embedded in NDIS policy and processes and what road blocks to avoid on the road ahead. The conference will be held at NAB – Docklands on Thursday 14th and 15^th September 2017. For more information and to register: http://www.daru.org.au/event/strengthening-disability-advocacy-conference-2017

Newsletters

Ticket to Work Newsletter

Ticket to Work is an initiative of National Disability Services (NDS). This Newsletter includes

•           Upcoming training in customised employment approach and discovery process

•           Ticket to Work outcomes

•           Our research and papers

•           New resources supporting school to work transition

http://www.tickettowork.org.au/ticket-work-news-may-2017/

PROGRAMS

Youth Mental Health Programs

Given that schools are recognised as a great facility for solutions in the of mental health area please note the following programs:

Mind Blank: is a not-for-profit organisation that generates awareness and innovative education of mental health topics in youth across Australia. http://www.mindblank.org.au/

Batyr: is a for purpose organisation that focuses on preventative education in the area of youth mental health, batyr provides programs that train young people to speak about their personal experience with mental ill health and start a conversation in their community. batyr takes these speakers into schools, universities and corporate arenas to continue this conversation around mental health. The programs engage, educate and empower the audience to learn from the experiences of others and to reach out to the great services around them. http://www.batyr.com.au/

Drama for Emotional Health: uses drama as a vehicle to encourage thought, discussion and communication skills amongst students with low self-esteem, challenging behaviours, or mental health issues.

http://alysonevans.com/drama-for-emotional-health/Health

Victorian NDCO’s

The NDCO Program works strategically to assist people with disability access, and participate in ‘Tertiary Education’ and subsequent employment, through a national network of regionally based NDCOs. There are 31 NDCO regions in Australia with 7 in Victoria. Each NDCO region has an Advisory Committee with representation from key regional stakeholders. In Victoria the NDCO program has also established a state network to work on collaborative state priorities.  You can access contact to all Victorian NDCO’s via the state website: www.ndcovictoria.net.au

National Disability Services VIC Conference 2017

Location: Melbourne Park Function Centre

Date: 27/03/2017 to 28/03/2017

With the continued rollout of the NDIS, planning for change is something our sector understands.

At the 2017 NDS Victorian State Conference we’ll be taking the conversation in the direction of exploring the realities, risks and opportunities of delivering change and creating great outcomes for both participants and provider organisations. With a diverse variety of insightful keynote speakers, professional development workshops and exhibitors, you’ll learn innovative and practical strategies that you can implement to: enhance opportunities for NDIS participants in their daily lives, strengthen disability culture and develop your organisation in a market environment.

Contact information

For registration and sponsorship/exhibitor queries, please contact Alyssa Mason at Alyssa.Mason@nds.org.au  or on 02 9256 3133

AGOSCI 13th Biennial Conference

17 – 20 May 2017

The Grand Hyatt, Melbourne, Australia

The AGOSCI Conference Theme for 2017 is “Ready, Set, AACtion”. The conference is an opportunity for people who use AAC, their families, friends, work colleagues, and people who work within the area of Augmentative and Alternative Communication to come together to share their knowledge and skills. Registration for the AGOSCI Conference is now open. You can easily register via an online form or download the registration brochure and manually complete a form.

Register Online Now

http://alloccasionsgroup.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=60c950af82506047d05112ca4&id=882131ce6c&e=4898c99552

AGOSCI Scholarship Information

Limited funding will be available for scholarships to support people with complex communication needs to attend the AGOSCI 2017 Conference.   Applications close 28 February 2017. Click below for further information on how to apply and who is eligible.

http://alloccasionsgroup.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=60c950af82506047d05112ca4&id=cf134975f6&e=4898c99552

Policy, Research & Resources

Welcome to the Cultural Atlas

The Cultural Atlas is an educational resource providing comprehensive cultural information on the countries that Australia’s biggest migrant populations have originated from. The aim is to improve social cohesion in Australia and promote inclusion in an increasingly culturally diverse society. The Cultural Atlas was developed to supplement SBS’s Cultural Competence Program. Click on link: http://theculturalatlas.org/

National Disability Practitioners (NDP) has unveiled its new website and is offering tailored development opportunities for NDS members.

NDP is a division of NDS committed to engaging, developing and supporting the disability workforce. Since launching in December 2014, NDP has grown to represent a community of more than 14,000 individuals. Members range from disability support workers to allied health practitioners, leaders, business support staff, students and volunteers. Individuals can join NDP for $45 per person, per annum. NDP recently unveiled a new website, www.ndp.org.au. The upgraded site showcases a growing range of member benefits and tailored resources. There you can download factsheets on a variety of topics, access up-to-date information on the NDIS, attend free online courses and view video content.

A skilled, informed workforce is crucial for the NDIS. As an NDS member, you have the opportunity to support the information, learning and development needs of your staff with an NDP group subscription. Group subscriptions start at just $20 per person, per annum*.

NDP strives to build and maintain a community of capable, professional and engaged individuals who are committed to delivering high-quality supports and life opportunities for people with disability. To find out more, visit www.ndp.org.au or contact Belinda Allen, Executive Officer at orphone 02 9256 3194.

Access and Inclusion Index

Access and Inclusion is the consideration and incorporation of the needs of people with disability in all areas of an organisation’s operations. This means ensuring that people with disability have equal access to employment, training and development, products and services, premises, communication and information communication technology.  For more information about the Access and Inclusion Index and how to use it go to https://accessandinclusionindex.com.au/overview

Document Accessibility Toolbar (DAT)

An innovation that revolutionises the ease and speed of creating accessible documents in Microsoft Word, the Document Accessibility Toolbar (DAT) supports individuals and organisations to embrace accessibility as ‘business as usual’ at no cost.  The DAT puts the power of accessible functionality into the hands of content authors, for the ultimate benefit of consumers with disability or age-related impairment. https://www.visionaustralia.org/dat

Decision-making support: Building Capacity within Victoria

The aim of the Supported Decision Making Project was to build knowledge on how people with cognitive impairment can be supported to make major life decisions, such as post-school options and accommodation. The research, conducted by La Trobe University, explored the processes and dilemmas associated with supporting people with cognitive disability in decision making. The outcomes of the research were then used by Scope to develop a range of resources to improve knowledge and build capacity in the area of decision-making support. The multimedia and print resources target families and carers, service providers, and legal professionals. http://www.scopeaust.org.au/research-project/decision-making-support-building-capacity-within-victoria/

Disability Knowledge Clearing House

The CADR Disability Knowledge Clearing House exists to help us understand ‘what works, for whom, under what circumstances, at what cost’. Here you will find a repository of links to a wide range of disability research and evaluation resources. CADR is constantly adding material to this site with the aim of building the most comprehensive collection of disability research and resources for the Australian context. http://www.cadr.org.au/

Downloadable Disability Access Symbols

There are over 54 million citizens with disability who want and need access to work and the buildings in which people work. Apart from all ethical considerations, the law demands that people with disability are accommodated. These symbols advertise your accessibility to employees, customers, audiences, and anyone else who needs access to your building or offices. Examples of places you’ll want to promote your accessibility include: advertisements, newsletters, conference and program brochures, membership forms, building signage, floor plans and maps. http://www.artsaccessaustralia.org/resources/publications/118-downloadable-disability-access-symbols

Employ Outside the Box

Employ Outside the Box is a series of publications to encourage businesses to diversify their workforce. By providing a clear business case and a systematic approach to internal procedures, the guides help businesses to hire people with disability, mature-age workers, Indigenous Australians and other categories of people with skills to offer. https://www.acci.asn.au/program/employ-outside-box

Get Ready Workbook Series

The NDCO program has developed a series of workbooks for young people with disability, a chronic medical condition or a mental health condition to help plan life after school. These workbooks are based on the top ten tips for moving into post school education, training and employment pathways.  They contain practical activities, facts on rights and responsibilities, useful links and more! There are three workbooks: Get Ready – Top Tips for Students with Disability; Get Ready – Top Tips for ATSI Students with Disability & Get Ready – A Guide for Parents. The workbooks are FREE to download and can be progressively completed electronically and saved to a computer.  There is also a plain text version for users of assistive technology and an Easy English version of the Student and ATSI workbook for people with low literacy or language skills. You can download all versions at www.westernsydney.edu.au/ndco/

Person-Centred Practice across Cultures resources

Person-Centred Practice Across Cultures is a series of resources focusing on the crucial importance of cultural awareness and sensitivity in disability support and service delivery.  There are 14 workbooks to assist you to be sensitive to and maximise cultural and linguistic diversity in your work. They cover issues such as choice and control for CALD customers, attracting people, engaging with local communities, bilingual workers and interpreters, and the business case for culturally-sensitive service delivery. The Person-Centred Practice Across Cultures project was designed by futures upfront for NDS. Funding was provided by the NSW Department of Family and Community Services, Ageing, Disability and Home Care.

Supporting tertiary students with ASD

Information for university and TAFE students diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), their parents, and tertiary staff interested in learning more about ASD. This information pertains to supporting students with an ASD in academic settings and comes from a variety of sources including local and international information, peer reviewed research and research conducted at OTARC (funded by DHS, Victoria).  The information provided is general and not targeted for specific tertiary institutions.  http://www.latrobe.edu.au/otarc/families-individuals/support

Consultation Overview – Victorian State Disability Plan 2017-2020

The Victorian Government consulted with a wide range of stakeholders to develop the Victorian State Disability Plan 2017-2020.  The Consultation overview provides a summary of key ideas that emerged from a formal consultation period that ran for six weeks from May to July 2016. The key ideas are presented by the themes of the discussion paper that was released as part of the formal consultation.  To assess the Consultation Overview please visit: http://www.statedisabilityplan.vic.gov.au/consultation-overview

Victorian NDCO’s

The NDCO Program works strategically to assist people with disability access, and participate in ‘Tertiary Education’ and subsequent employment, through a national network of regionally based NDCOs. There are 31 NDCO regions in Australia with 7 in Victoria. Each NDCO region has an Advisory Committee with representation from key regional stakeholders. In Victoria the NDCO program has also established a state network to work on collaborative state priorities.  You can access contact to all Victorian NDCO’s via the state website: www.ndcovictoria.net.au

West Vic News

Winter 2016

The National Disability Coordination Officer Program, Western Victoria in partnership with the Glenelg Southern Grampians Local Learning & Employment Network and Department of Health and Human Services,  is proud to bring to the Western District of Victoria the “Youth Empowerment Program 2016.” For the first time we are able to offer previous participants of the ‘Passport 2 Employment’ and ‘Pathways with a Purpose’ programs, (from Portland, Hamilton, Warrnambool and Horsham), the chance to further develop their leadership skills.

The program includes a planning forum then an overnight camp aimed at empowering young people with disability to lead a full and varied life, and  stay in contact and support each other in the long term. The transition from school to adult life presents young people with a range of options, possibilities, decisions, and challenges.  The Youth Empowerment Program will be developed as follow on opportunity for those students who have already had some experience in preparing for this period through their participation in past programs. The first phase of the Youth Empowerment Program 2016 will be initiated by holding a Structured Planning Forum on Tuesday the 21^st of June at the new South West Institute of TAFE campus in Hamilton.

An essential element of designing the camp – this planning forum will ensure the inclusion of young people from the very early stages. Young people will be encouraged and supported to participate in this first phase to encourage their leadership capacity and ensure that the program meets their needs.  Anne Murphy, Executive Officer of the GSGLLEN, states “Inclusion of the young people from the very initial stages of planning will ensure that this program and camp is successful.  Young people will have the opportunity to design the camp and its activities, taking ownership of the camp, whilst also learning important life skills that will assist them in years to come”.

If you are interested in how the NDCO program could help in your local region/area please feel free to contact me.

Kind regards,

Pam Anderson

Pam Anderson NDCO Region 16

Mobile: 0418 108 555

Email:  pam.anderson@skillsplus.com.au

Website: www.ndcovictoria.net.au

Professional Development

Pathways 13 Conference Website – Celebrating 25 years of Pathways

30 November – 2 December 2016 Canberra

The ATEND Pathways Conference is a bi-annual event organised by the Australian Tertiary Education Network on Disability (ATEND). The conference brings together disability practitioners, NDCOs and a range of other professional, academic staff and students with disability to identify and remove barriers for people with disability participating in higher education and training. Pathways provides a unique opportunity to improve our knowledge and plays a pivotal role in supporting practitioners and the sector in general with an opportunity for professional development. It encourages discussion and debate which informs the sector and ensures that we are all working towards an improved practice model. Pathways 13 centres around the theme; Changes, Challenges and Choice – embracing the future.  The Pathways 13 conference will celebrate the 25th Anniversary of Pathways in Australia. Register your interest here http://www.pathways.consec.com.au/register.html

SPELD Training

The following are workshops that SPELD Victoria: Comprehensive 2 day workshop for educational support staff and integration aids 15 July & 22 July 2016

https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/a-comprehensive-two-day-workshop-for-education-support-staff-integration-aides-tickets-25041799697?ref=ebtnebtckt

Four day Teacher Training Course in Specific Learning Disorders 12^th-13^th & 10^th -20^th October 2016

http://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/4-day-teacher-training-course-in-specific-learning-disorders-october-12th-13th-19th-20th-registration-19466925097?ref=ebtn

Disability and a Good Life: Thinking through Disability – Free online Course

Learn how disability is part of who we are as human beings, and how a good life is possible for everyone. https://www.futurelearn.com/courses/thinking-through-disability

This course started on the 16^th May however you are still able to join.

Graduate Certificate in NDIS Business Development

The Graduate Certificate in NDIS Business Development offers students a program of study to enhance their understanding and appreciation of the issues affecting the disability sector.

As such it offers study of both legal and business frameworks that might impact upon organisational operations that may affect the optimum delivery of client focused services.

At the end of the program of study students will have a sound grasp of the legislative frameworks underpinning the National Disability Insurance Scheme.

https://my.une.edu.au/courses/2016/courses/GCNDIS

Sensory Regulation – FREE Professional Development Opportunity, Wimmera Region

The National Disability Coordination Officer Program Region 16 in partnership with Horsham Special School and Wimmera Rural Access Program extend this invitation to any interested professional or person in the Wimmera who would like to understand more about disability and what it means for learning.  This workshop is FREE and is the final workshop in a series which included; Emotional Regulation, Language and Communication and more.. The workshop is delivered by education experts in the field and sponsored by the Wimmera Rural Access Program and Horsham Special School.

When:              Friday 20^th July 2016

Where:            Horsham Special School , 17 High Street North, Horsham

Time:               1pm – 3pm

Registrations Contact: Megan or Shannon (03) 5381 1475

Email: horsham.ss@edumail.vic.gov.au

Transition Action Networks – Western Victoria

The goal of these networks is to support young people with barriers to transition to remain engaged in or pursue education, training, employment and/or participate in activities within the community. The networks aim to do this by building partnerships between education and community service providers.  If you are interested in participating or wish to establish a network in your area, please contact Pam on 0418 108 555 or email: pam.anderson@skillsplus.com.au

National Disability Services (NDS) Event Snapshot

One day eight cities Jul to Aug 2016

NDIS Essential Briefing

The essential NDIS info you need to know – By the time this NDIS Essential Briefing series begins, the transition to the full NDIS will be underway. Attending this event has never been more important. The 2016 Briefing series will have two sections. The morning will be focussed on the national policy environment, the need-to-know facts and data for your organisation. It will feature quick-fire updates on pricing, housing, transfer of business, LACs, workforce, the Modern Award, quality and safeguards and more. Last year over 2,100 CEOs and Senior Managers benefitted from this series. Demand will be high so make sure you register early to secure your place.

Date and location: Melbourne, 19 July, 9:30am – 3:30pm  Register now  Visit: www.nds.org.au/events-and-training

Positive Behaviour Support Workshops – Geelong

Date: 18 July 2016 – 20 July 2016; Venue: Quality Hotel Bayside, Geelong, La Trobe Room, 13-15 The Esplanade, Geelong VIC

Time: 9.30 am – 2.30 pm, BYO Lunch – Cost FREE

Aspect Victoria is pleased to offer the highly successful, contemporary, evidence based three (3) day Positive Behaviour Support Workshop.  This is a FREE workshop for parents and carers of children and young people aged 6-25 years of age who are diagnosed with Autism.. Eligibility to participate in the workshop:

• Parents and carers of children and young people aged 6 – 25 years of age who are diagnosed with Autism
• The individual with Autism must be living at home
• Participating families are encouraged to invite professionals or service providers working with them to attend the workshop with them

Families participating in this workshop will:

• Develop an understanding of Autism and how Autism impacts on learning and behaviour
• Learn how to be proactive by creating an Autism friendly environment at home
• Learn how to write an Autism specific Behaviour Support Plan for one of their child’s behaviours
• Learn how to write a plan to respond confidently when challenging behaviour occurs
• Learn how to teach new skills to promote their child’s independence and quality of life

Contact: Amber Day

Email: aday@autismspectrum.org.au

Telephone: (03) 93776600

To register please visit: https://www.autismspectrum.org.au/content/events-and-workshops

Disability-related Events Calendar 2016

Each year the Australian Network on Disability compiles a list of key disability-and health-related campaigns and events scheduled throughout the year.  See more: http://www.and.org.au/pages/disability-related-events-calendar.html

June

26 – Red Nose Day – SIDS and Kids

29 – World Scleroderma Day – Scleroderma Australia

July

10-16 – Diabetes Awareness Week- Diabetes Australia

TBC – Stress Down Day – Lifeline Australia

29 – Crazy Hair Day – Cystic Fibrosis NSW

28 – World Hepatitis Day – Hepatitis Australia

August

5 – Jeans for Genes Day – Children’s Medical Research Institute

7-13 – National EOS Awareness Week – AusEE Inc.

15-21 – Brain Injury Awareness Week, “Bang on a Beanie”  – Brain Injury Australia

20-27 – Hearing Awareness Week – Deafness Forum of Australia

26 – Daffodil Day – Cancer Council Australia

Resources

Building teacher capability for inclusive education

As a part of the Victorian Governments Department of Education and Training strategic direction, building teacher capability for inclusive education requires all Victorian teachers to undertake some professional development in the area of disabilities and special needs.  For further information go to

http://www.education.vic.gov.au/about/department/Pages/snpskilledteachers.aspx

For learning diversity resources go to

http://www.education.vic.gov.au/school/teachers/teachingresources/diversity/Pages/default.aspx

The Making Experience Count eBook

The Making Experience Count eBook is a collection of 12 personal stories aimed at sharing helpful information and resources for mature age job seekers with disability.

Developed by the Inner Melbourne VET Cluster (IMVC) National Disability Coordination Officer Programme – the Making Experience Count eBook showcases 12 success stories of mature age workers with disability (aged 45+), who have successfully transitioned from unemployment to employment.

https://imvc.com.au/youthservices/broaden-your-horizons/national-disability-coordination-officer/making-experience-count-ebook/

NDIS Planning Guide and Workbook

This planning guide is for people who are able to access the NDIS. It has been designed to assist you through the process of developing your individual plan. It will help you identify your needs, goals and current sup-ports. There are a number of questions for you to think about, and you can note your thoughts in the following pages.

http://www.ndis.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/planning_guide.pdf

Clips Worth Watching

NDIS Ready- National Disability Insurance Scheme

Getting ready for the NDIS Video Clip http://www.ndis.gov.au/ndis-ready

Reports / Policy

Attorney-General’s release of the Willing to Work: National Inquiry into Employment Discrimination Against Older Australians and Australians with Disability Report

The report findings are in three key themes:

• Priority Government Commitments
• Improving existing systems
• What employers and businesses can do

With a total of 56 recommendations there is plenty of reading in this extensive report. Also included are highlighted examples of best practices, a wide variety of case studies and an appendix chock full of data and statistics. To access the full report:

http://www.humanrights.gov.au/our-work/disability-rights/projects/willing-work-national-inquiry-employment-discrimination-against

The Victorian state Government has announced -More Support For Victorians Who Have A Disability http://www.premier.vic.gov.au/more-support-for-victorians-who-have-a-disability/

Programs

Stepping into Program

Are you a student with Disability looking to gain valuable work experience whilst getting paid?  Stepping into is a paid internship program designed specifically for university students with disability.  We currently have 65 internships across Australia, with the list growing daily and we would love to get more students involved. There are currently many opportunities in Melbourne and Geelong which may be of particular interest to you.

http://www.and.org.au./pages/stepping-into…-programs.html

NDCO Victoria Website

The Victorian National Disability Coordination Officer Program website has recently been u updated. The site provides a range of general information about post school support and transition options into education and employment for people with disability.  In addition to this each region contains specific information about events and services in your local area.

http://ndcovictoria.net.au

National Disability Clearinghouse

https://ndoch.govspace.gov.au/archives/4776

Check out what’s New at the following link: http://ndoch.govspace.gov.au/news

NDIS

Supports the NDIS will Fund in Relation to Education
This fact sheet provides information on what supports the NDIS will fund in relation to education and how to determine whether a support is funded by the NDIS or the school education system.  http://www.ndis.gov.au/node/740

Supports the NDIS will Fund in Relation to Higher Education and Vocational Training

This fact sheet provides information on what supports the NDIS will fund in relation to higher education and vocational education and training (VET) and how to determine whether a support is funded by the NDIS or the higher education and VET system. http://www.ndis.gov.au/document/741

Supports the NDIS will Fund in Relation to Employment

This fact sheet provides information on what supports the NDIS will fund in relation to employment and how to determine whether a support is funded by the NDIS or the employment system. http://www.ndis.gov.au/document/743

Or Visit: www.ndis.gov.au for further information.

Victorian NDCO’s

The NDCO Program works strategically to assist people with disability access, and participate in ‘Tertiary Education’ and subsequent employment, through a national network of regionally based NDCOs. There are 31 NDCO regions in Australia with 7 in Victoria. Each NDCO region has an Advisory Committee with representation from key regional stakeholders. In Victoria the NDCO program has also established a state network to work on collaborative state priorities.

Region 11 – Inner Northern Melbourne NDCO: Tania Perez TPerez@imvc.com.au Phone: (03) 9686 2354

Region 12 – Western Region NDCO: TBC Phone: 0439 113 364

Region 13 – Eastern Melbourne NDCO: TBC Phone: (03) 9686 2354

Region 14 –Southern Melbourne NDCO: Sally Bailey Email: sbailey@skillsplus.com.au Phone: (03) 9784 0400

Region 15 – Northern Victoria NDCO: Mark Cottee Email: macottee@wodongatafe.edu.au Phone: (02) 6055 6309

Region 16 – Western Victoria NDCO: Pam Anderson Email: pam.anderson@skillsplus.com.au Phone 0418108555

Region 17 -Eastern Victoria and South East Melbourne NDCO: Andrea Evans McCall Email: andrea.evansmccall@skillsplus.com.au Phone: 0418 208 039

West Vic News

Autumn 2016

Autumn is approaching us…. Easter Eggs are already lining the supermarket shelves..

Everybody’s fighting some kind of stereotype, and people with disabilities are no exception. The difference is that barriers people with disabilities face begin with people’s attitudes — attitudes often rooted in misinformation and misunderstandings about what it’s like to live with a disability.

Myth 1: People with disabilities are brave and courageous.

Fact: Adjusting to a disability requires adapting to a lifestyle, not bravery and courage.

Myth 2: All persons who use wheelchairs are chronically ill or sickly.

Fact: The association between wheelchair use and illness may have evolved through hospitals using wheelchairs to transport sick people. A person may use a wheelchair for a variety of reasons, none of which may have anything to do with lingering illness.

Myth 3: Wheelchair use is confining; people who use wheelchairs are “wheelchair-bound.”

Fact: A wheelchair, like a bicycle or an automobile, is a personal assistive device that enables someone to get around.

Myth 4: All persons with hearing disabilities can read lips.

Fact: Lip-reading skills vary among people who use them and are never entirely reliable.

Myth 5: People who are blind acquire a “sixth sense.”

Fact: Although most people who are blind develop their remaining senses more fully, they do not have a “sixth sense.”

Myth 6: People with disabilities are more comfortable with “their own kind.”

Fact: In the past, grouping people with disabilities in separate schools and institutions reinforced this misconception. Today, many people with disabilities take advantage of new opportunities to join mainstream society.

Myth 7: Non-disabled people are obligated to “take care of” people with disabilities.

Fact: Anyone may offer assistance, but most people with disabilities prefer to be responsible for themselves.

Myth 8: Curious children should never ask people about their disabilities.

Fact: Many children have a natural, uninhibited curiosity and may ask questions that some adults consider embarrassing. But scolding curious children may make them think having a disability is “wrong” or “bad.” Most people with disabilities won’t mind answering a child’s question.

Myth 9: The lives of people with disabilities are totally different than the lives of people without disabilities.

Fact: People with disabilities go to school, get married, work, have families, do laundry, grocery shop, laugh, cry, pay taxes, get angry, have prejudices, vote, plan and dream like everyone else.

Myth 10: It is all right for people without disabilities to park in accessible parking spaces, if only for a few minutes.

Fact: Because accessible parking spaces are designed and situated to meet the needs of people who have disabilities, these spaces should only be used by people who need them.

Myth 11: Most people with disabilities cannot have sexual relationships.

Fact: Anyone can have a sexual relationship by adapting the sexual activity. People with disabilities can have children naturally or through adoption. People with disabilities, like other people, are sexual beings.

Myth 12: People with disabilities always need help.

Fact: Many people with disabilities are independent and capable of giving help. If you would like to help someone with a disability, ask if he or she needs it before you act.

Myth 13: There is nothing one person can do to help eliminate the barriers confronting people with disabilities.

Fact: Everyone can contribute to change. You can help remove barriers by:

• Understanding the need for accessible parking and leaving it for those who need it
• Encouraging participation of people with disabilities in community activities by using accessible meeting and event sites
• Understanding children’s curiosity about disabilities and people who have them
• Advocating a barrier-free environment
• Speaking up when negative words or phrases are used about disability
• Writing producers and editors a note of support when they portray someone with a disability as a “regular person” in the media
• Accepting people with disabilities as individuals capable of the same needs and feelings as yourself, and hiring qualified disabled persons whenever possible

Reference: http://www.easterseals.com/explore-resources/facts-about-disability/myths-facts.html

If you are interested in how the NDCO program could help in your local region/area please feel free to contact me.

Kind regards,

Pam Anderson

Pam Anderson NDCO Region 16

Mobile: 0418 108 555

Email:  pam.anderson@skillsplus.com.au

Website: www.ndcovictoria.net.au

Inclusive Learning Conference 2016 – Early Bird Registrations Open

Friday 10 June 2016

Supporting Successful Engagement in Education and Vocational Preparation

Venue: Monash University Peninsula, Campus McMahons Rd, Frankston

Target: Professionals with an interest in learning and education for people aged 14 years and over with complex learning needs.

Stream One: Inclusive practice in education

Steam Two: Vocational preparation and mentoring

Important dates 

Call for Presentation Papers Open 23 November 2015

Early Bird Registrations Open 1 February 2016

Call for Presentation Papers Close 22 February 2016

Early Bird Registrations Close 25 April 2016

Registrations Close 30 May 2016

For further information about the Inclusive Learning Conference 2016 go to http://www.ndcovictoria.net.au/region-14#events or contact

To register for this event go to

http://www.eventbrite.com.au/o/ndco-program-6834195823

Sally Bailey National Disability Coordination Officer sbailey@skillsplus.com.au (03) 9784 0400

For RSVP’s and requested to be added to the membership please contact

Sally Bailey, NDCO, sbailey@skillsplus.com.au

Your say

Community views sought on services for autism spectrum disorder

The Victorian Parliament’s Family and Community Development Committee has invited community input to its inquiry into services for people with autism spectrum disorder. The Committee has called for people to have their say on the availability and adequacy of services provided by the Commonwealth, State and local governments across health, education, disability, housing, sport and employment services.  The Committee also wants to find out the projected demand for services in Victoria. Submissions are welcome by Friday, 18 March 2016

For information about making a submission go to http://www.parliament.vic.gov.au/fcdc/inquiries/article/2586

NDIS and MS

Experience in the NDIS trial sites show that many people living with multiple sclerosis will be eligible for this insurance. If you have any impairment that stops you from doing everyday things by yourself, you might be eligible for insurance support to help you achieve your goals – whether that’s to return to work, travel or just do all the everyday things others take for granted! – See more at: http://www.ms.org.au/support-services/national-disability-insurance-scheme/my-ndis-story.aspx#sthash.ImJd4ovq.dpuf

Understanding Disability – FREE Professional Development Opportunity,

Wimmera Region

The National Disability Coordination Officer Program Region 16 in partnership with Horsham Special School and Wimmera Rural Access Program extend this invitation to any interested professional or person in the Wimmera who would like to understand more about disability and what it means for learning. This initial session will include a walking workshop through Horsham Special School that will begin to connect the dots between brain development, environment and learning.

A forum session will follow the walking tour, with an opportunity for you to discuss and query topics concerning your work or life in regards to disability.

This workshop is FREE and is the first in a series which will include; Emotional Regulation, Language and Communication, Sensory Regulation and more. They will be delivered by education experts in the field and sponsored by the Wimmera Rural Access Program and Horsham Special School.

When:              Friday 18^th of March 2016

Where:            Horsham Special School

17 High Street North, Horsham

Time:               1pm – 3pm

Registrations by Friday 11/3/16: Megan or Shannon (03) 5381 1475

Email: horsham.ss@edumail.vic.gov.au

Transition Action Networks – Western Victoria

The goal of these networks is to support young people with barriers to transition to remain engaged in or pursue education, training, employment and/or participate in activities within the community. The networks aim to do this by building partnerships between education and community service providers.

Please see below dates and times for meetings coming up…

Tuesday 16^th of February 2016

Southern Grampians Transition Action Network, RMIT, 200 Ballarat Road, Hamilton 10am-12noon

Monday 22^nd February 2016

South West Transition Action Network, South West TAFE, Hurd Street, Warrnambool 3.45 pm-5pm

Wednesday 24^th February 2016

Sunraysia Transition Action Network, Mildura Club, Deakin Avenue, Mildura 3-4.30 pm

Wednesday 2^nd March 2016

Geelong Transition Action Network, Deakin Cats Community Centre, Skilled Stadium, Geelong 3.30-4.30pm

Wednesday 9^th March 2016

Colac Transition Action Network, Colac Specialist School, Wilson Street, Colac 3.30pm-4.30pm

If you are interested in participating or wish to establish a network in your area, please contact Pam on 0418 108 555 or email: pam.anderson@skillsplus.com.au

National Disability Services (NDS) Event Snapshot

Role of Support Workers in an NDIS World

2 March 2016

This workshop is for support workers and coordinators who support people with disability in the community. It combines theory with tools and examples to equip support workers to learn the skills to facilitate active community engagement.

Improve IT-4NDIS

3 March 2016

This workshop is part of the Improve-IT-4NDIS program, which will focus on IT planning for an NDIS environment.

Improve IT-4NDIS

4 March 2016

This workshop is part of the Improve-IT-4NDIS program, which will focus on IT planning for an NDIS environment.

Assistive Solutions Expo

5 March 2016

Spinal Life Australia’s Assistive Solutions Expo will feature the latest innovations, equipment, aids and technology for people with a physical disability.

NDS VIC Conference 2016

7 – 8 March 2016

The NDS VIC Conference will be held on Monday 7 – Tuesday 8 March 2016 at the Pullman, Albert Park, Melbourne.

Costing and Pricing Phase II

8 March 2016

This workshop will examine costing and pricing for small and medium disability service organisations. The workshop will utilise relevant cases and consider the impacts of NDIS, My Way and the Delivering Community Services in Partnership Policy.

Costing and Pricing – The Curtin / NDS Tool

9 March 2016

This workshop will demonstrate the use of the Costing and Pricing – The Curtin / NDS Tool by applying a case study of a typical medium sized disability service provider.

Coordinators and Team Leaders Forum

10 March 2016

This forum has been designed to provide coordinators and team leaders with the information and skills necessary to thrive in the new disability sector.

Visit the NDS Website for more information and see more events: http://www.nds.org.au/events

Disability-related Events Calendar 2016

Each year the Australian Network on Disability compiles a list of key disability-and health-related campaigns and events scheduled throughout the year.  See more: http://www.and.org.au/pages/disability-related-events-calendar.html

February

1-29 – Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month – Ovarian Cancer Australia

1-29 – REDFEB – Heart Research Australia

4 – World Cancer Day – Union for International Cancer Control

7-13 – Feeding tube awareness week – ausEE Inc.

18 – International Asperger’s Day – Asperger Services Australia

26 – Wear Red Day – Heart Research Australia

March

1-31– Bandaged Bear Appeal – The Children’s Hospital at Westmead

1 – International Wheelchair Day – International Wheelchair Club

4 – Bandaged Bear Day – The Children’s Hospital at Westmead

6-12 – World Glaucoma Week – Glaucoma Australia

14-20 – Brain Awareness Week – BrainAware

10-13 – World’s Greatest Shave – Leukaemia Foundation

21 – World Down Syndrome Day – United Nations

TBC – Arthritis Awareness Week – Arthritis Australia

26 – Purple Day for Epilepsy Awareness – Epilepsy Australia

April

2 – World Autism Awareness Day – United Nations

7 – World Health Day – United Nations

11 – World Parkinson’s Day – Parkinson’s Victoria

TBC – Osteopathy Awareness Week – Australian Osteopathic Association

25-26 – Pacific Rim International Conference on Disability and Diversity, Hawaii.

28 – World Day for Safety & Health at Work – International Labor Organization (ILO)

27 – International Guide Dog Day – Guide Dogs Australia

May

1-31 – Jelly Baby Month – The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation

1-31 – Neurofibromatosis Awareness Month – Neurofibromatosis Association of Australia Inc

1-31 – Miracle Month of May – Miracle Babies Foundation

6 – World Asthma Day – Asthma Australia

4-10 – Tourette Syndrome Awareness Week – Tourette Syndrome Association of Australia

1-7 – Heart Week – Heart Foundation

1-7 – National Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Week – MND Australia

12-18 – International Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/ Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) Awareness Week – ME/CFS Australia

8 – Get Smart (Mother’s Day) – Thyroid Foundation – Protect Your Baby’s Brain

TBC – Schizophrenia Awareness Week – Schizophrenia Fellowship of NSW

15 – World Autoimmune Arthritis Day – International Foundation for Autoimmune Arthritis

15-21 – Support Allergic Friends Everywhere Week – Anaphylaxis Australia

17 – Australian Network on Disability’s 7th Annual National Conference, Sydney

19-25 – Spinal Health Week – Chiropractor’s Association of Australia

26 – World MS Day – MS Research Australia

26 – Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea – Cancer Council

27 – 65 Roses Day – Cystic Fibrosis New South Wales

22-28 – Kidney Health Week – Kidney Health

29 – Wear White at Work for International White Wreath Day (Suicide awareness) – White Wreath Association

TBC – Macular Degeneration Awareness Week – Macular Degeneration Foundation Australia

TBC – MS Walk & Fun Run – Multiple Sclerosis Australia

June

1-7 – Thyroid Awareness Week- Australian Thyroid Foundation

13-19 – International Men’s Health Week – Men’s Health Information and Resource Centre

17 – City Mile Dash – Cancer Council NSW

21 – MND (Motor Neurone Disease) Global Day – MND Australia

26 – Red Nose Day – SIDS and Kids

29 – World Scleroderma Day – Scleroderma Australia

July

10-16 – Diabetes Awareness Week- Diabetes Australia

TBC – Stress Down Day – Lifeline Australia

29 – Crazy Hair Day – Cystic Fibrosis NSW

28 – World Hepatitis Day – Hepatitis Australia

August

5 – Jeans for Genes Day – Children’s Medical Research Institute

7-13 – National EOS Awareness Week – AusEE Inc.

8 – Top 8 Challenge Day – AusEE Inc.

15-21 – Brain Injury Awareness Week, “Bang on a Beanie”  – Brain Injury Australia

20-27 – Hearing Awareness Week – Deafness Forum of Australia

26 – Daffodil Day – Cancer Council Australia

September

1-30 – Dementia Awareness Month – Alzheimer’s Australia

1-30 – Prostate Cancer Awareness Month – Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia

1 – Gold Bow Day – Australian Thyroid Foundation

12-18 – National Stroke Week – National Stroke Foundation

10 – World Suicide Prevention Day (UN) – Suicide Prevention Australia

8 – R U OK? Day – R U OK?

11-15 – Idiopathic Hypersomnia Awareness Week – Hypersomnolence Australia

15 – World Lymphoma Awareness Day – Lymphoma Australia

18-24  – Parkinson’s Awareness Week – Parkinson’s Australia

21 – World Alzheimer’s Day – Alzheimer’s Australia

TBC – Headache and Migraine Week – Headache Australia (Brain Foundation)

21 – World Alzheimer’s Day – Alzheimer’s Australia

29 – World Heart Day – World Heart Federation

October

1-31 – Mental Health Awareness Month – Mental Health Association NSW

1-31 – Breast Cancer Awareness Month – National Breast Cancer Foundation

1-31 – Dogtober – Assistance Dogs Australia

1-31 – Girls Night In – Cancer Council Australia

1 – World Cerebral Palsy Day

4-16 – Down Syndrome Awareness Week & Buddy Walk – Down Syndrome Australia

7 – Light The Night – Leukemia Foundation

7 – Hat Day for Mental Health – Rotary Australia

TBC – National Amputee Awareness Week – Limbs for Life

TBC – Nation Week of Deaf People – Deaf Australia

TBC – Great Strides Day – Cystic Fibrosis Australia

9-15 – Mental Health Week – National Mental Health Commission

TBC – Haemophilia Awareness Week & Red Cake Day- Haemophilia Foundation Australia

9 – World Sight Day – Vision 2020 Australia

10 – World Mental Health Day – United Nations

12 – International Arthritis Day – Arthritis Victoria

TBC – Loud Shirt Day – (to benefit deaf children) – Hear and Say Centre

20 – World Osteoporosis Day – International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF)

TBC – Pink Ribbon Day – Cancer Council

TBC – National Bandanna Day – CanTeen

November

1-30 – Movember- Movember Foundation

1-30 –  Lung Health Awareness Month – The Australian Lung Foundation

TBC – Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Week – Independence Australia

TBC – National Psychology Week – The Australian Psychological Society

TBC – National Walk to Work Day – Diabetes Australia

14 – World Diabetes Day – Diabetes Australia

15 – White Cane Day – Vision Australia

16 – World Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Day – Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease

TBC – Assistance Dogs Australia Awareness Week – Assistance Dogs Australia

December

1 – World AIDS Day

1 – Red Ribbon Appeal – runs in conjunction with World AIDS Day – ACON Sydney

3 – UN International Day of People with Disability – IDPwD

TBC – Pathways13 Conference, Canberra – Australian Disability Clearinghouse on Education and Training

ANZ Graduate and Internship Program and Students with Disability

Rob Crestani from ANZ’s Abilities program has put out a request for people with disability to apply for the ANZ Graduate Internship Program. The 2016 ANZ Graduate Program application period will begin on February 24th and finish on March 20th.  Application can be made online at www.anz.com.au/about-us/careers/graduate-intern-program .

Policy and Research

Access to real learning: the impact of policy, funding and culture on students with disability

An inquiry into current levels of access and attainment for students with disability in the school system, and the impact on students and families associated with inadequate levels of support. Australia, as a nation, has allowed educational outcomes for students with disability to be poor as a consequence of failing to consider what outcomes we want for children with disability. Without defined goals or outcomes for students with disability, there has been long-term policy confusion around expectations of the school system in general and individual students in particular. What is needed, therefore, is greater consideration given to what would be the optimal educational outcomes for students with disability, and then an effort made by governments at both commonwealth and state/territory level to put into place the policies, practices and funding that would lead to these outcomes.

http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Committees/Senate/Education_and_Employment/students_with_disability/Report

Building teacher capability for inclusive education

As a part of the Victorian Governments Department of Education and Training strategic direction, building teacher capability for inclusive education requires all Victorian teachers to undertake some professional development in the area of disabilities and special needs.  For further information go to

http://www.education.vic.gov.au/about/department/Pages/snpskilledteachers.aspx

For learning diversity resources go to

http://www.education.vic.gov.au/school/teachers/teachingresources/diversity/Pages/default.aspx

Final Report on the 2015 Review of the Disability Standards for Education 2005

The Standards are required to be reviewed every five years in consultation with the Attorney-General’s Department. Urbis were engaged by the department to undertake the 2015 review of the Standards. The 2015 review recognised progress has been made since the 2010 review in raising awareness of the Standards with educators through various initiatives and resources.

The Final Report on the 2015 Review and the Australian Government initial response are now available. The Australian Government initial response outlines how the Australian Government intends to address each recommendation. https://docs.education.gov.au/node/38936

http://www.speldvic.org.au/component/dtregister/?Itemid=99999

Post School Transition, the Experiences of Students with Disability

This report is based on the direct experience of young people with disability. It highlights key issues from current research, legislation and consultation with key stakeholders. It concludes with recommendations for improving outcomes and options for post school transition of students with disability.

http://apo.org.au/resource/post-school-transition-experiences-students-disability

Recognising Ability: Business and the Employment of People with Disability

Business Council of Australia launched Recognising Ability: Business and the Employment of People with Disability, a report which looks at the role business can play in driving greater workforce participation and inclusion for people with disability.

http://www.bca.com.au/media/recognising-ability-business-and-the-employment-of-people-with-disability

Supporting tertiary students with a disability or mental illness: good practice guide

Through the implementation of the principles outlined in this good practice guide, teaching staff and disability services staff in tertiary institutions will be better positioned to provide additional supports for students with a disability or mental illness. Based on two research reports, which consider the perspectives of students, disability services workers and teaching staff, this guide offers a wide range of individual and institution-level learning supports with the aim of improving the educational experience and rate of course completions for students with a disability or mental illness.

Supporting tertiary students with a disability or mental illness: good practice guide

Supporting tertiary students with disabilities: individualised and institution-level approaches in practice

Experiencing disability or ongoing ill-health can be very disruptive to an individuals’ education and training outcomes. These students may need additional support to help them successfully complete their studies. This research explores the complex factors affecting the implementation of learning supports to assist students with disabilities or ongoing health conditions. It focuses on two types of learning support: individualised reasonable adjustments; and institution-level learning supports, the latter being available to all students. The report provides examples of best practice for the provision of both types of learning supports and notes that often a combination of these may be appropriate.

Supporting tertiary students with disabilities: individualised and institution-level approaches in practice

Amendments to VET FEE-HELP

The Higher Education Support Act 2003 (the Act) was recently amended by the Higher Education Support Amendment (VET FEE-HELP Reform) Act 2015 and will enact new measures from 1 January 2016 to further strengthen the scheme.

The amendments will:

• Strengthen the debt remission process for students under VET FEE-HELP

• Strengthen the assessment criteria for, and ongoing scrutiny of, all training providers

• Ensure student debt is incurred in line with course delivery, and establish increased protections for students

• Establish minimum pre-requisite and prior education qualification, including demonstrated literacy and numeracy requirements.

• Freeze the total loan limit for existing providers at 2015 levels

• Introduce new entry requirements for training providers wishing to offer VET FEE-HELP loans

• Move to payment in arrears for certain providers

• Pause payments to providers for new enrolments where there are concerns about performance.

For information, please refer to the following website: – https://www.education.gov.au/vet-fee-help-reforms

Students wanting to know how these changes affect them, please visit the Study Assist website at www.studyassist.gov.au

Complaints about providers can be made to the National Training Complaints Hotline 13 38 73 – https://www.education.gov.au/national-training-complaints-hotline-1

Resources

Document Accessibility Toolbar (DAT) beta an exciting new resource from Vision Australia!

An innovation that revolutionises the ease and speed of creating accessible documents in Microsoft Word, the Document Accessibility Toolbar (DAT) supports individuals and organisations to embrace accessibility as ‘business as usual’ at no cost.

The DAT puts the power of accessible functionality into the hands of content authors, for the ultimate benefit of consumers with disability or age-related impairment.

https://www.visionaustralia.org/business-and-professionals/digital-access-consulting/resources/document-accessibility-toolbar#what

Toolbox talk training package for all workplaces—beyond blue

Beyondblue’s ‘Mental health in the workplace’ toolbox talk training package provides workplaces in all industries with free resources to equip team leaders, or anyone managing staff, with the skills and confidence to deliver mental health toolbox talks to their staff. The package helps them to encourage conversations about mental health in the workplace, reduce workplace stigma and sup-port staff who may be experiencing a mental health condition.  Go to webpage

Filmed over a period of eight years, Sharing Our Story follows the lives of five families as they progress through major milestones in their children’s lives and learn to manage the particular issues and challenges associated with raising a child with a disability.

Sharing Our Story

Sharing Our Story is a highly engaging adult learning tool aimed at tertiary students and service providers who regularly work with children with a disability. Sharing Our Story is designed to stimulate discussion and encourage a greater understanding of disability from a family perspective enabling professionals to work in partnership with children with a disability and their families.

Sample on you tube (https://youtu.be/Fj7icLvhLeE)

The Sharing Our Story kit includes two DVDs plus a training manual with suggested learning objectives, activities and prompts to generate discussion. The full Sharing Our Story kit is available for purchase for AUD 199.00 Inc. GST on 03 9818 2000, 1800 654 013 or mail@acd.org.au

Sane – Take the workplace mental health and wellbeing survey

Help us improve workplace mental health outcomes in Australian organisations by participating in the Mindful Employer survey. The Workplace Mental Health and Wellbeing survey will provide us with invaluable insights that will help to inform our work and support workplaces.  The survey will only take 10 minutes to complete and participation is strictly confidential. https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/MindfulEmployerProgram

NDCO Victoria Website

The Victorian National Disability Coordination Officer Program website has recently been u updated. The site provides a range of general information about post school support and transition options into education and employment for people with disability.  In addition to this each region contains specific information about events and services in your local area.

http://ndcovictoria.net.au

National Disability Clearinghouse

https://ndoch.govspace.gov.au/archives/4776

Check out what’s New at the following link: http://ndoch.govspace.gov.au/news

NDIS

Supports the NDIS will Fund in Relation to Education
This fact sheet provides information on what supports the NDIS will fund in relation to education and how to determine whether a support is funded by the NDIS or the school education system.  http://www.ndis.gov.au/node/740

Supports the NDIS will Fund in Relation to Higher Education and Vocational Training

This fact sheet provides information on what supports the NDIS will fund in relation to higher education and vocational education and training (VET) and how to determine whether a support is funded by the NDIS or the higher education and VET system. http://www.ndis.gov.au/document/741

Supports the NDIS will Fund in Relation to Employment

This fact sheet provides information on what supports the NDIS will fund in relation to employment and how to determine whether a support is funded by the NDIS or the employment system. http://www.ndis.gov.au/document/743

Or Visit: www.ndis.gov.au for further information.

Victorian NDCO’s

The NDCO Program works strategically to assist people with disability access, and participate in ‘Tertiary Education’ and subsequent employment, through a national network of regionally based NDCOs. There are 31 NDCO regions in Australia with 7 in Victoria. Each NDCO region has an Advisory Committee with representation from key regional stakeholders. In Victoria the NDCO program has also established a state network to work on collaborative state priorities.

 Region 11 – Inner Northern Melbourne NDCO: Tania Perez TPerez@imvc.com.au Phone: (03) 9686 2354

Region 12 – Western Region NDCO: Gary Kerridge Email: gary.kerridge@deakin.edu.au Phone: 0439 113 364

Region 13 – Eastern Melbourne NDCO: Effie Kapsalos Email: ekapsalos@imvc.com.au Phone: (03) 9686 2354

Region 14 –Southern Melbourne NDCO: Sally Bailey Email: sbailey@skillsplus.com.au Phone: (03) 9784 0400

Region 15 – Northern Victoria NDCO: Mark Cottee Email: macottee@wodongatafe.edu.au Phone: (02) 6055 6309

Region 16 – Western Victoria NDCO: Pam Anderson Email: pam.anderson@skillsplus.com.au Phone 0418108555

Region 17 -Eastern Victoria and South East Melbourne NDCO: Andrea Evans McCall Email: andrea.evansmccall@skillsplus.com.au Phone: 0418 208 039

West Vic News

Summer 2015

Welcome to Summer….only a few sleeps until Christmas and holidays! On behalf of the NDCO Program for Western Victoria I hope you all have a wonderful time with family and friends and travel safe to and from your holiday destinations this festive season.

The year 2015 has seen many projects and activities in relation to young people with disability transitioning from secondary school into further education/training and/or employment.  The NDCO program could not do this without the wonderful support of the people in our local communities across Western Victoria.

Our service providers who have contributed to the Passport 2 Employment Program and Pathways with Purpose Program 2015 have been the glue and key to its success.  We hope to continue the work of this fantastic program in 2016 with further development and delivery happening in Geelong/Barwon and Eastern Victoria.  If you would like to find out more about the program for students or young people in your area, please contact me for a chat.

The NDCO has been volunteering with Karingal Disability Services (Community Living) in Geelong over the past few months with my wonderful Maremma, “Pat” (pictured below).  Pat has been providing therapy to participants at Karingal every week and is a registered Delta Therapy Dog.  Pat would like to let you know that there is a real need out there for people and their loving pooches to volunteer as a Delta Therapy team.  It’s not hard to do if you have a pooch who enjoys the company of people.

Check out the Delta Society webpage at: http://www.deltasociety.com.au/ to see what is involved!

If you are interested in how the NDCO program could help in your local region/area please feel free to contact me.

Kind regards,

Pam Anderson

Pam Anderson NDCO Region 16

Mobile: 0418 108 555

Email:  pam.anderson@skillsplus.com.au

ABORIGINAL/TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER NEWS…. THE WELCOME TO COUNTRY IPHONE APP ABOUT THE APP: The Welcome to Country iPhone app. delivers a simple Welcome to Country video introduction~ to Australian indigenous culture, including basic cultural protocols that are tribal boundary geo-specific^. The app. uses the GPS function of the iPhone to deliver a Welcome to Country video (or text/image version) to the user via a push notification. Where available within a tribal boundary^, the video will be of a traditional owner (or elder) welcoming the user/visitor to their country when the user enters that tribal geo-boundary^. The app. educates the user on the Traditional Owners’ culture and heritage protocols right across the Australia. It gives the user a solid appreciation of the many cultures and languages groups that exist in Indigenous Australia. The app. also teaches users some simple, relevant information about Indigenous culture and the customs of the tribe within that tribal geo boundary. As such, the Welcome to Country iPhone app. can be used by tourists, schools, employers, government departments, by tourism bodies and many other user groups and individuals. Version 1.0 of the Welcome to Country app. contains more than 30 tribes and languages groups (of over 500 groups!) right across Indigenous Australia. We’ll be adding many more language groups over the coming months so please check back regularly for updates. WHAT IS A ‘WELCOME TO COUNTRY’? “A Welcome to Country is where an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander custodian or elder from the local area or region welcomes people to their land. This may be done through speech, song, dance or ceremony and has been part of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander protocol for thousands of years. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander protocols or customs in relation to Welcome to Country are diverse and will vary from region to region.” (Source: http://www.dhcs.act.gov.au/atsia/welcome_to_country) Most people don’t know there are over 500 Indigenous tribes (and therefore tribal geo boundaries) and language groups that exist across Indigenous Australia? The Indigenous Australia map that can be found at http://www.abc.net.au/indigenous/map/ is just one representation of other map sources that are available for describing Aboriginal Australia. This map in particular indicates only the general location of larger groupings of people and this may include smaller groups such as clans, dialects or individual languages in a group. If you’re a traditional owner or a member of an Australian Indigenous language group and you’d like your Mob included on the app. please contact us by email welcomeapp@wsmedia.com.au to discuss. Koorie Kids with Special Needs Magazine- First Edition – Victorian Aboriginal Indigenous Education Association Incorporated (VAEAI) VAEAI has just released their first magazine focusing completely on the support available for Koorie children and young people with a disability and/or special needs.  This is a magazine for families, for community members and for anyone who is interested in finding out more about the programs, services and assistance available. In 2014, with funding from the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet, VAEAI began looking at developing resources to support Koorie families who have children with special needs. With the help of a steering committee of Koorie parents/caregivers, and the advice of representatives from organisations working in the field of disability, VAEAI developed a radio show which airs fortnightly on 3KND, called Koorie Kids with Special Needs.  The radio show features parents/caregivers talking about their experiences and what works for them, as well as organisations talking about programs and supported.  The radio show has been a great success and will continue to air on 3KND in 2015/2016.  What was discovered is there is a need to promote the assistance available to Koorie communities because there is help available, but not everyone knows about how to access that help. So to complement what VAEAI is doing with the radio show, they created the first Koorie Kids with Special Needs magazine.  VAEAI hope to promote the great work that Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal organisations are doing to support Koorie Kids with Special Needs and also hope that the parent/caregiver stories featured in the magazine will give confidence to other parents who may be starting out in seeking support for their child.  Being a parent is challenging work, and having a child with special needs adds some extra challenges, but with the right assistance your child can thrive and achieve the best education outcomes possible. For information about the magazine and to order some copies please visit: www.vaeai.org.au or contact your local Wurreker Broker. Koorie Kids with Special Needs RADIO SHOW! Every Thursday 12-1 pm In September 2014, VAEAI began broadcasting the Koorie Kids with Special Needs Radio Program from 1503 AM 3KND…. What they are doing is talking to parents and caregivers of Koorie Children who have special needs.  They are talking about their experiences and how they accessed support for their kids.  The show also talks to people working in the field of disability about the range of programs that are on offer for kids with special needs. 3KND broadcaster Garry Hansen hosts the program. The show is very appreciative of all Koorie parents and disability support professionals who come in to share their knowledge.  They hope that other families listening in will get useful advice and know that there is support available for their child. TUNE IN EVERY THURSDAY 12 PM – 1503 AM 3KND STREAMING RADIO! Visit online at: www.3knd.org.au If you are a parent/caregiver of a Koorie child who has special needs and would like to share your story VAEAI would love to hear from you. Please get in touch with Vaso Elefsiniotis at VAEAI on 03 9481 0800 or email vaso@vaeai.org.au  You can also contact VAEAI on Facebook at www.facebook.com/vaeai

 Girrwaabugany; What Aboriginal students say is the best way to connect with them

During November 2015, the NDCO Region 16 attended the National Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander Education Conference held at the Mercure Pullman Hotel in Albert Park.  The following presentation was delivered by Michael Donovan from the Wollotuka Institute, University of Newcastle.  Michael is a Gumbaynggir man with experience in various fields of health (Enrolled Nurse and Doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine).  Michael has also held various roles in education – Aboriginal Education Assistant, Bachelor of Teaching (Primary), Lecturer, NSW AECG Life Member and PhD candidate – “What form(s) of pedagogy are necessary for increasing the engagement of Aboriginal school students?”

 Michael’s PhD study is asking the question, “What form(s) of pedagogy are necessary for increasing the engagement of Aboriginal school students?”

• What is significant about relationships from an Aboriginal standpoint
• Highlight Aboriginal pedagogical theory
• What could this mean for educators working with Aboriginal students

What do Aboriginal pedagogical theorist say about Aboriginal students?

 Relationship development between teacher and Aboriginal students

• The need for aspects of recognition of Aboriginal culture
• Localised content and placing the learning in context to Aboriginal society and Aboriginal worldview
• Use of group and peer support
• Adapting the learning environment to be safe and free from racism
• The engagement of dynamic teaching practices to support various preferred Aboriginal learning practices
• Allowing Aboriginal students to be responsible for their learning with some choice within the educational framework
• Acknowledging the use of reflective learning
• High expectations of Aboriginal students

 What are Aboriginal students saying about the teacher and student relationship?

 School is good

• School is social
• Aboriginal student spaces are valuable
• Valueing of Aboriginal culture is positive
• A real relationship by Teachers is a must
• Teachers being organised and consistent
• Dynamic teaching practices
• The Teacher is more important than the subject
• Subjects with hands on activities or practicalities are important
• Students see very limited value of Aboriginal culture at school
• The recognition of Aboriginal Cultural Knowledge needs to be acknowledged in schools for both Aboriginal and Non-Aboriginal students and should be part of everyday practice
• Improved teacher expectations of Aboriginal students is important

 What is meant by Girrwaabugany?”

Treating the student “like your Mob” or in a familial relationship

• Relationships needs to be based on an Aboriginal understanding of family
• Development of an authentic relationship that is relational with shared experiences
• Respect needs to be foundational
• “So if there is a cultural difference between the teacher and the student then this difference needs to be recognised, acknowledged and engage with in this relationship to effectively occupy the Aboriginal student worldview.”  (Donovan, unpublished thesis)
• What can this relationship be?
• Develop some social connection and understanding of your student.. “I started with a teacher I didn’t like, therefore I didn’t like the subject”
• Recognition of the students Aboriginality… “If they know more about your life, they can understand if something happens at home”
• Greater than a “9 to 3” relationship
• Based on shared respect and high expectations… “She listens to you, not like other teachers.”
• “You have a better relationship with your teacher if they know more about your life.”
• “He’s a fun person to know, you can talk to him about personal stuff and he’ll be good with it, he’ll be cool.”
• “Some of them really take the time to get to know you and they even help you through stuff that you needs help with.  Like even if it’s not schoolwork.”

 Victorian Aboriginal Education Association Incorporated (VAEAI) Resources

 Community Partnerships

VAEAI encourages all schools wanting to work collaboratively with their local Koorie Community to create a culture of high expectations for Koorie students, to enter into a School-Community Partnership Agreement.  You can read more about the KPaCE program and how to develop a School-Community Partnership Agreement in The Koorie Parent and Community Engagement Model (2103), available at: http://www.vaeai.org.au/_uploads/_ckpg/files/KSCPA_booklet_FINAL_low_res.pdf

Start-Up Guide for Both Schools and Communities

The VCAA has provided a start-up guide for schools or community members wanting to get involved in reclaiming and reviving Victorian Aboriginal Languages and cultures, through starting up start-up a school-based language program.  See: http://www.vcaa.vic.edu.au/Pages/alcv/aboriginal_stds.aspx

The VCAA website highlights the importance of following protocols developed through community consultation.  The protocols guide and LOTE standards for teaching Victorian Aboriginal Languages can be viewed at: http://www.vcaa.vic.edu.au/Pages/alcv/aboriginal_stds.aspx

(Reference: Protocols for Koorie Education in Victorian Primary & Secondary Schools (2015)proudly produced by the Victorian Aboriginal Education Association Incorporated (VAEAI))

Assistive Technology: changing livesThe NDIS Assistive Technology (AT) Strategy was released at the NDIS New World Conferencein Brisbane at the end of last month.

Technology is increasingly a part of everyone’s life, and for people with disability it can help them perform tasks they could not otherwise do, and to do this more safely and securely. It is allowing many people with disability to reach their potential at home, in their community and in the workplace.

AT is a big component of the NDIS, with up to 50 per cent of participant plans in trial sites including AT so far. We expect to be spending $1 billion a year on AT supports with NDIS participants when the Scheme is active across the country.

Our aim is for participants to have choice in and access to the AT solutions that give them greater autonomy and independence and enable them to live the lives they want.

It is critical that the NDIS harnesses the full potential of technology in the short and long term. It is creating opportunities in employment and participation that will change lives and also the Scheme.

Three priorities of the NDIS AT Strategy are:

• Supporting and stimulating a vibrant and innovative AT supply market for NDIS participants by providing a conduit for such innovation and promoting the take-up of AT solutions
• Encouraging informed, active, participant-led demand for AT by empowering participants to choose technology that best supports their needs
• Delivering a financially robust, sustainable approach that generates economic and social value in the long term

The NDIS can see great potential for innovative service delivery models to emerge through the use of technology generally (eg. ICT, remote equipment diagnostics), particularly in remote areas.

Co-design work with people with disability and sector stakeholders was part of creating the AT Strategy. This approach will continue to be a fundamental part of strategy development and implementation for NDIS.  Read the Assistive Technology Strategy.

NDIS benefitting more people with disability, their families and carers

The latest quarterly report on the progress of the NDIS was recently released. The report shows that delivery of the NDIS continues to be on time and on budget.

More than 19,700 people are now benefitting from the NDIS, with more than $1.2 billion invested in the services and equipment Australians with disability need to live more independent lives.

Key findings of the report include:

• 19,758 people with disability had an approved NDIS plan, at a total cost of $1,201.1 million. This represents 94% of the bilateral targets.
• The cost of the average package (excluding residents of large institutions) is $34,831. This remains below the expected full Scheme average of $38,600.
• Participant satisfaction levels with the NDIS remain very high.

The full report is available on the Quarterly reports page.

For further information about the National Disability Insurance Scheme visit: www.ndis.gov.au

Changes to the “BACK TO WORK” Scheme

The Victorian Government has boosted the Back to Work Scheme to assist Victorian job seekers and employers looking to hire new staff……

From 1 November 2015, employers will receive a significant increase in government funding of up to $12000 when they hire long term unemployed workers (now 26 weeks unemployed, reduced from 52 weeks), and up to $5000 for retrenched workers, out-of-trade apprentices, and young people aged between 15 and 25 who have been unemployed for three months or more.

The eligibility criteria for the scheme has been expanded to include new apprentices and trainees as well as unemployed people who are disability and sole parent pensioners, members of drought affected farm households, people who identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander, refugees, social housing residents and young people in or exiting out-of-home care or who are a current or recent youth justice client.

Employers are able to elect to have this funding redirected, for example, to services supporting disadvantaged job seekers with placement and employability skills support. Up to $4000 for training will also be provided to employers who provide accredited training to a new employee. This will be on top of any other payment received.

More details of the scheme can be found on the notice in the Victoria Government Gazette

What are the key changes to the Back to Work Scheme?

The Back to Work Scheme is being expanded to provide better support to employers who employ disadvantaged job seekers. The changes include:

• increased payment amounts,
• additional payments for accredited training,
• additional groups of employees who will attract the payments, and
• shorter waiting periods for some groups.

What are the changes to the payment amounts?

Payments to employers hiring full-time workers will be increased as follows:

• For young unemployed and retrenched workers, employers can claim $5,000 (up from $1,000).
• For long-term unemployed workers, employers can claim $12,000 (up from $2,000).
• Employers hiring new part-time employees can claim 75 per cent of the above payments.

What additional payments will be provided for accredited training?

Employers that provide accredited training to new employees in any eligible category will receive an extra payment of up to $4,000.

What additional groups of employees will attract the payments?

The category of eligible employees is being expanded to include apprentices and trainees, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander persons, disability pensioners, drought-affected farm households, refugees, social housing tenants, sole parent pensioners, youth justice clients and young persons in or exiting out of home care.

What other changes are being made?

Persons who are unemployed and seeking work for 26 weeks or more are now considered long-term unemployed workers (previously 52 weeks).

Are there any changes to the process to make a claim?

The process for making a claim for the existing category of eligible employees (i.e. young unemployed persons, long term unemployed persons, retrenched workers and out of trade apprentices) is unchanged. There will be a new process for making a claim for the expanded category of eligible employees and to claim accredited training costs.

When do the changes to the scheme commence?

The changes commence for any eligible employee (including the expanded categories of eligible employee) that commence employment with an eligible employer on or after 1 November.

Where do I get more information?

Full details of the new payment amounts, the expanded category of eligible employees and other changes will be detailed in the revised Eligibility Criteria, which have been Gazetted on 29 October 2015. You can access the Gazette via the following link:

http://www.gazette.vic.gov.au/gazette/Gazettes2015/GG2015S320.pdf

New University Preparation Resources for Students!!

Below are links to two new web-based resources available for people considering university as a pathway:

What’s Uni Like is an online course helping people answer the following questions: Is university for me? What should I expect at university? What academic skills will I need?

http://www.whats-uni-like.edu.au/

Campus Quest is a game designed to help people understand and prepare for life at uni

https://campusquest.com.au/

Developed at Curtin University with funding from the Australian Government Department of Education.

The world’s largest job search website for jobseekers with disabilities…..Toozly is all about YOU.

Whether you’re a jobseeker with a disability looking for work, an employer looking for staff or a service provider assisting clients with disabilities to return to the workforce, you’ve probably found yourself wondering – Why is there no major online jobsearch platform specifically for people with disabilities ?

There is now.

What you might not have known is that Toozly was created by professionals with over 30 years experience in Disability Employment Services, Business, Human Resources, Psychology, Education and Training.

Perhaps you’re already familiar with the free services and support available to employers and jobseekers with disabilities ? You may want to browse our Resources section for more information as well as loads of tips and advice for supporting jobseekers with disabilities into the workforce.

For those of you who believe that people with disabilities (18.5% of Australia’s population) are greatly under-represented in the workforce, we’ve created The Toozly 5-Step Plan to help organisations assess and improve their diversity and inclusion practices.

The Toozly 5-Step Plan is freely available in our Resources section.

The Toozly Pledge, featured on our front page encourages employers to commit to the Toozly 5-Step Plan and is a public show of support for Diversity and Inclusion in the workforce. Employers are encouraged to showcase their commitment to Diversity and Inclusion. Take The Pledge and put your company in our Hall of Fame !

Our goal for Toozly is quite simple:

Employers are sitting on a goldmine of underutilised talent and in an ageing population it makes good business sense to tap into this resource and hire a person with disability. Toozly is here to make that process easy !

For case managers and people with disability we believe the time is right for a big picture approach to assisting you to find work for yourself or on behalf of your clients. Toozly is the vehicle that can display your talents to a wide cross section of employers who are looking for reliable and talented staff.

We trust that Toozly is of value in assisting you to achieve your employment goals.

To get started visit: https://www.toozly.com.au/

NDCO Victoria New Website

The Victorian National Disability Coordination Officer Program website has recently been u updated. The site provides a range of general information about post school support and transition options into education and employment for people with disability.  In addition to this each region contains specific information about events and services in your local area.

http://ndcovictoria.net.au

National Disability Clearinghouse

Australian Disability and Indigenous Peoples’ Education Fund

https://ndoch.govspace.gov.au/archives/4776

Check out what’s New at the following link: http://ndoch.govspace.gov.au/news

NDIS

Supports the NDIS will Fund in Relation to Education
This fact sheet provides information on what supports the NDIS will fund in relation to education and how to determine whether a support is funded by the NDIS or the school education system.  http://www.ndis.gov.au/node/740

Supports the NDIS will Fund in Relation to Higher Education and Vocational Training

This fact sheet provides information on what supports the NDIS will fund in relation to higher education and vocational education and training (VET) and how to determine whether a support is funded by the NDIS or the higher education and VET system . http://www.ndis.gov.au/document/741

Supports the NDIS will Fund in Relation to Employment

This fact sheet provides information on what supports the NDIS will fund in relation to employment and how to determine whether a support is funded by the NDIS or the employment system. http://www.ndis.gov.au/document/743

Or Visit: www.ndis.gov.au for further information.

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

Victorian NDCO’s

The NDCO Program works strategically to assist people with disability access, and participate in ‘Tertiary Education’ and subsequent employment, through a national network of regionally based NDCOs. There are 31 NDCO regions in Australia with 7 in Victoria. Each NDCO region has an Advisory Committee with representation from key regional stakeholders. In Victoria the NDCO program has also established a state network to work on collaborative state priorities.

Region 11 – Inner Northern Melbourne NDCO: Tania Perez TPerez@imvc.com.au Phone: (03) 9686 2354

Region 12 – Western Region NDCO: Gary Kerridge Email: gary.kerridge@deakin.edu.au Phone: 0439 113 364

Region 13 – Eastern Melbourne NDCO: Effie Kapsalos Email: ekapsalos@imvc.com.au Phone: (03) 9686 2354

Region 14 –Southern Melbourne NDCO: Sally Bailey Email: sbailey@skillsplus.com.au Phone: (03) 9784 0400

Region 15 – Northern Victoria NDCO: Mark Cottee Email: macottee@wodongatafe.edu.au Phone: (02) 6055 6309

Region 16 – Western Victoria NDCO: Pam Anderson Email: pam.anderson@skillsplus.com.au Phone 0418108555

Region 17 -Eastern Victoria and South East Melbourne NDCO: Andrea Evans McCall Email: andrea.evansmccall@skillsplus.com.au Phone: 0418 208 039

West Vic News

Winter 2015

Welcome to Winter!   Breaking news……  Introduction to “The Diversity Field Officer Project (Geelong)”

The Diversity Field Officer project, a joint project by Deakin University and the Australian Federation of Disability Organisations (AFDO), aims to test an employment engagement strategy for small to medium businesses to increase confidence to employ people with disability. AFDO is the national independent voice of people with disability, run by and for people with disability.  The pilot, which will take place in Geelong, will involve Diversity Field Officers who will work directly with small to medium businesses (from very small businesses to businesses with less than 100 employees) who are interested in developing employment opportunities for people with disability. The Diversity Field Officers will work with businesses to

• Develop understanding of business needs and how employment of a person with a disability can add value
• Build awareness of businesses of how to accommodate disability in the workplace and the supports that are available
• Provide specialist advice and one to one tailored support, including review of policies and procedures, to remove and minimise barriers which impact the recruitment and ongoing employment of people with disability
• Facilitate connections with a wide range of employment supports and resources to support businesses to become disability confident, and continue that confidence post the pilot

Geelong has been specifically chosen as the pilot site due to the changing workforce demography of the region and as the Victorian trial site for the National Disability Insurance Scheme which is principally focused on increasing social and economic participation.  To recruit local businesses, a series of business events will be held with the support of Geelong partners. Intensive one to one support will be provided to up to 50 businesses.   The project will include a full evaluation that will enable proof of concept and provide an evidence base for the scaling up of the model.  A literature review and international scoping exercise will also be undertaken to inform the model.

The project is supported by numerous partners including Helen Macpherson Smith Trust, National Disability Insurance Agency, Worksafe Victoria and Disability Employment Australia as well as local partners including the National Disability Coordination Officer Program, Geelong Chamber of Commerce, Committee for Geelong, G21 Geelong Region Alliance and local employment service providers.

WATCH THIS SPACE!   Keep warm and stay snug this Winter!

Kind regards,

Pam Anderson

Pam Anderson NDCO Region 16  Mobile: 0418 108 555 Email:  pam.anderson@skillsplus.com.au

 REVIEW:  AFDO Launches Disability Loop Website

Australian Federation of Disability Organisations (AFDO) is delighted to launch the Disability Loop website at www.disabilityloop.org.au Disability Loop aims to give people with disability and their families information about the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) that is up to date, easy to find and easy to use.   Disability Loop is different to the NDIS website because it is run by and for people with disability and their families.  It also brings together information from lots of different websites, not just the NDIS.  Disability Loop is a project run by AFDO and funded by the NDIS Sector Development Fund (SDF).

West Vic News

Spring 2015

Welcome to the start of Spring….beautiful sunny days to wash away the damp, cold winter we have just experienced!  Birds are tweeting, everything is turning green and wildflowers coming out in full bloom…

The Passport 2 Employment Program has been delivered in Portland, Warrnambool, Hamilton and Horsham (Pathways with Purpose) with a total of 68 students participating in this fabulous program.  Negotiations are underway to deliver the program in Geelong & Eastern Victoria (Gippsland) in 2016.  The P2E program was an original initiative of the Glenelg Transition Action Network and Glenelg Southern Grampians LLEN.  So far the program has been highly successful with preparing students for the world of work and/or further education and training.  Many have gone on to part time jobs, work experience, structured work placements, volunteering and some have commenced courses through TAFE.  The beauty about this program is the collaborative effort from key stakeholders working together towards a common goal.  Stakeholders have included, Federal and State Government Departments, Government Secondary Schools/Special Schools, Private & Independent Schools, Disability Employment Services, TAFE, Rural Access (Council/Shires), Australian disability Enterprises, Health Services, Mental Health Services,  Local Learning & Employment Networks (LLEN’s), Industry/Businesses, NDCO, Volunteering Organisations, Disability Services, Community Services and special mention must be had to our wonderful PSD Coordinators in schools of which are sometimes flying under the radar so to speak!  So far the program has been delivered with minimum funding required but some funds were accessed through the WDEA Charitable Trust (Portland) and Department of Health & Human Services (Warrnambool).  The Horsham program has been delivered from support by Horsham Special School, Warracknabeal SDS, NDCO, WSMLLEN and Horsham Rural Council.

Recently members of the Glenelg Transition Action Network attended the Victorian Disability Sector Awards at Federation Square in Melbourne to receive an award as one of the Top Five Finalists in Victoria for “Excellence in Learning and Development Outcomes” for people with disability.  The Passport 2 Employment Program was voted as a finalist out of 103 nominations.  Well done team!

This program would not be sustainable without the whole of community approach and enthusiasm I have witnessed from all providers involved (including competitive organisations).  We hope to keep delivering the program to more students in the future years to come.

If you are interested in how this program could work in your local region/area please feel free to contact me.

 Kind regards,

Pam Anderson

 

Pam Anderson NDCO Region 16 Mobile: 0418 108 555 Email:  pam.anderson@skillsplus.com.au

THE 2015 EMPLOYMENT AWARDS The Australian Long-Term Unemployment Conference will host the 2015 Employment Awards 9-10 November, 2015 at the Pullman Melbourne on the Park. The 5 awards will be presented during the Welcome Reception at the Australian Long-Term Unemployment Conference. The Awards aim to recognise individuals and organisations for their continuous work and commitment to excellence, dedication and achievements within the Employment Industry. Award winners will be profiled by media partners and will be featured on the Conference website and social media. Award categories include; Youth Employment Organisation Indigenous Employment Organisation Disability Employment Organisation Regional Employment Program Employment Officer for 2015 (Nominated by an Organisation). For further information and how to nominate, please visit the website. Nominations close August 31st, 2015. Nominations Open Now

Conference Secretariat- Samandra Edwards Email: secretariat@longtermunemployment.org.au Website: longtermunemployment.org.au Phone: +61 7 5502 2068  BE QUICK! Nominations Open for Disability Awards The 2015 National Disability Awards are now open, giving Australians the chance to acknowledge the many people, organisations and initiatives across the country that make a positive impact on the lives of people with a disability. These awards help build awareness of disability issues and showcase important work throughout the community, enabling people to fully participate in work and society. This year the Awards are looking for nominations that demonstrate great community initiatives. I encourage people across Wannon to put forward a person, organisation or initiative in their community that deserves recognition. To nominate for the National Disability Awards, go to www.idpwd.com.au Or call 1800 672 682. TTY users please call 1800 555 677 and ask for 1800 672 682. Nominations for the National Disability Awards close on FRIDAY 4 September 2015.  WEBINAR COMING SOON……. Supporting tertiary students with disabilities, mental illness and long term health conditions: Student and staff perspectives of what works. Date:   Wednesday 9th September 2015 Time:   10.00am – 10.45am AEST Cost:    VETnetwork Australia members $49, Non-members $69 Presenters: Dr. Annie Venville and Professor Ellie Fossey This webinar brought to you by VETnetwork Australia and NCVER will summarise the findings of two NCVER-funded research projects focused on the learning experience of tertiary students with disability, mental illness or ongoing ill-health: The webinar will focus on the following implications for practice The need for VET organisations to focus on inclusive teaching practices; identifying and acting on key early warning signs that apply to all students that may be at risk of non-course completion or poor progression. Information about study supports and reasonable adjustments and the formal provision of these should be provided to all students, and not be predicated upon the disclosure of mental illness. Changes to the way VET institutes collect disability related information that ensure data collected for organisational reporting purposes is transparent and clearly delineated from that designed to enable the identification and provision of student support. The provision of institution-level learning supports may be made more visible so as to foster learning environments that are inclusive of tertiary students with disabilities. The provision of relevant and effective reasonable adjustments for individual students could be enhanced with greater emphasis on collaboration among the parties involved, with the student at the centre. Enhancing student awareness of available learning supports and increasing transparency about the nature and types of disability support available could reduce the variability in tertiary student experiences of learning support. The provision of institution-level learning supports may be made more visible so as to foster learning environments that are inclusive of tertiary students with disabilities. For more information visit the VETnetwork Australia website or contact Keri Torney on (08) 8297 4533 or at keri.torney@vetnetwork.org.au.

Disability-related Events Calendar 2015

Each year the Australian Network on Disability (AND) compiles a list of key disability- and health-related campaigns and events scheduled throughout the year.  If you are aware of an event or campaign that is missing from this list, please contact info@and.org.au with the details.  Here are the events/campaigns coming up for the remainder of 2015….. Happy fundraising!

September

1-30 – Dementia Awareness Month – Alzheimer’s Australia

1 – Gold Bow Day – Australian Thyroid Foundation

14-21 – National Stroke Week – National Stroke Foundation

10 – World Suicide Prevention Day (UN) – Suicide Prevention Australia

10 – R U OK? Day – R U OK?

15 – World Lymphoma Awareness Day – Lymphoma Australia

21 – World Alzheimer’s Day – Alzheimer’s Australia

14-20 – Headache and Migraine Week – Headache Australia (Brain Foundation)

21 – World Alzheimer’s Day – Alzheimer’s Australia

29 – World Heart Day – World Heart Federation

October

1-31 – Mental Health Awareness Month – Mental Health Association NSW

1-31 – Breast Cancer Awareness Month – National Breast Cancer Foundation

1-31 – Dogtober – Assistance Dogs Australia

Various – Girls Night In – Cancer Council Australia

1 – World Cerebral Palsy Day

TBC – National Amputee Awareness Week – Limbs for Life

4-11 – Mental Health Week – National Mental Health Commission

11-17 – Haemophilia Awareness Week & Red Cake Day- Haemophilia Foundation Australia

9 – World Sight Day – Vision 2020 Australia

10 – World Mental Health Day – United Nations

12 – International Arthritis Day – Arthritis Victoria

16 – Loud Shirt Day – (to benefit deaf children) – Hear and Say Centre

20 – World Osteoporosis Day – International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF)

TBC – Pink Ribbon Day – Cancer Council

30 – National Bandanna Day – CanTeen

November

1-30 – Movember- Movember Foundation

1-30 – Lung Health Awareness Month – The Australian Lung Foundation

TBC – Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Week – Independence Australia

9-15 – National Psychology Week – The Australian Psychological Society

14 – World Diabetes Day – Diabetes Australia

15 – White Cane Day – Vision Australia

22-28 – Assistance Dogs Australia Awareness Week – Assistance Dogs Australia

December

1 – World AIDS Day

1 – Red Ribbon Appeal – runs in conjunction with World AIDS Day – ACON Sydney

3 – UN International Day of People with Disability – IDPwD

 

Employment Charter for the Employment of People with Disability

These are the key principles that assist organisations with their development of long term sustainable approaches for inclusion of people with disability as employees.  We encourage organisations to adopt these principles in their employment practices.

Equal Opportunities Policy and Procedures
Employment of people with disability will form an integral part of all Equal Opportunities policies and practices.

Staff Training and Disability Awareness
Specific steps will be taken to raise awareness of disability throughout the organisation.

The Working Environment
Specific steps will be taken to ensure that the working environment does not prevent people with disability from taking up positions for which they are suitably qualified.

Recruitment Commitment
Recruitment procedures will be reviewed and developed to encourage applications from, and the employment of, people with disability.

Career Development
Specific steps will be taken to ensure that employees with disability have the same opportunity as others to develop their full potential within the organisation.

Retention, Retraining and Redeployment
Full support will be given to any employees who acquire a disability, enabling them to maintain or return to a role appropriate to their experience and abilities within the organisation.

Training and Work Experience
People with disability will be involved in work experience, training and education.

People with disability in the wider community
The organisation will recognise and respond to people with disability as clients, suppliers, and members of the community at large.

Involvement of People with Disability
Employees will be involved in implementing this agenda to ensure that wherever possible, employment practices recognise and meet their needs.

Monitoring Performance
The organisation will monitor its progress in implementing the key points.  There will be an annual audit of performance reviewed at board level.  Achievements and objectives will be published to employees and in the annual report.

For further information visit: http://www.and.org.au/pages/employment-charter-for-the-employment-of-people-with-disability.html

What is “Inclusive Language?”

Language is an incredibly powerful tool, and can be used to create a sense of empowerment, pride, identity and purpose.  Contrary to the old adage “sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me,” improper use can have a devastating impact, even with the best intentions. It can be difficult to keep up with what is the acceptable terminology in relation to disability, so below is a brief refresher for you.

 Focus on the person, not the impairment

In Australia, best practice language is to use ‘person with disability’ or ‘people with disability’.

Person-first language is the most widely accepted terminology in Australia.  Examples of person-first language include: person with disability, person who is deaf, or people who have low vision. Put the person first, and the impairment second (when it’s relevant). Other terms that are growing in popularity and acceptance are ‘person living with disability’, and ‘person with lived experience of disability’. These terms are inclusive of people who may have experienced disability in the past, but don’t any longer, and also people who are carers.

We also prefer to say ‘person without disability’, and do not recommend the terms ‘non-disabled’ or ‘able-bodied’.

 Don’t use language that implies a person with disability is inspirational simply because they experience disability.  People with disability are just living their lives, they are no more super-human than anyone else. Implying that a person with disability is courageous or special just for getting through the day is patronising and offensive.

 Conversely, don’t make out that people with disability are victims or objects of pity

Just because a person experiences disability does not make them weak, a victim or someone to be pitied. Examples of language that can imply people should be pitied include‘suffering from…’, ‘struck down by…’, and ‘afflicted by/with…’ We try to remove the emotion from the language, for example, ‘Paul experiences depression’, ‘Ravi developed Multiple Sclerosis’, or ‘Katya has epilepsy’.

 People are not ‘bound’ by their wheelchairs

The term wheelchair-bound is one that is commonly used in mainstream media, and it is one that really irritates (and often offends) many people with disability, and anyone with any knowledge of the Social Model of disability. A person who uses a wheelchair is not bound by the chair; they are enabled and liberated by it, it can become an extension of their body.‘Confined to a wheelchair’ is equally as negative. It is much better to use ‘wheelchair user’ or‘person who uses a wheelchair’, instead.

 ‘Disclosure’ can imply secrets and lies

We are moving away from the traditional terminology of ‘disclosure of disability’ (in a workplace setting), as it can make it seem like the person is about to divulge a secret of epic proportions. We avoid ‘declaration of disability’ for similar reasons. We should also steer clear of the increasingly popular phrase ‘identify as a person with disability’, as this brings with it a whole range of other issues around identity and belonging. Someone may have impairment, but still not identify as a person with disability.

We now tend to use the simple phrase ‘choose to share information about their disability/impairment’, when talking about a person’s choice to let their employer or colleagues know about their disability or specific requirements. (Australian National Disability Network)

 Avoid euphemisms and made up words

‘Differently abled’, ‘people of all abilities’, ‘disAbility’, ‘diffAbled’, ‘special needs’ and the like, are all euphemistic and can be considered patronising. While the intention is usually good, these phrases tend to fall into the trap of making people with disability out to be special or inspirational, just for living with disability (see above point).

 Change the focus from disability, to accessibility

In recent years, some organisations have increasingly referred to Accessibility Action Plans or Access and Inclusion Plans, rather than Disability Action Plans. This makes the focus much more inclusive, and incorporates the requirements of a diverse range of people who may have access needs, including older people, parents and carers of young children, and travelers.

Similarly, car parks, lifts and bathrooms are now appropriately described as accessible, rather than disabled.

 Relax, and don’t get caught up in semantics

While the above information may seem daunting if it’s new to you, the most important thing you can remember is to simply focus on the person, rather than the disability. Don’t be so afraid of saying the wrong thing that you don’t say anything at all – relax, and just be willing to communicate!!

…..AND REMEMBER:  “The majority of disabilities are not visible”

Reasonable Adjustments

What is a reasonable adjustment?

A reasonable adjustment is a change to a work process, practice, procedure or environment that enables an employee with disability to perform their job in a way that minimises the impact of their disability.   Reasonable adjustments allow a person to:

• perform the inherent or essential requirements of their job safely in the workplace
• have equal opportunity in recruitment processes, promotion and ongoing development
• experience equitable terms and conditions of employment
• maximise productivity

The term ‘reasonable adjustments’ is used because, under the Disability Discrimination Act (1992), employers are obligated to make adjustments to accommodate an individual’s disability, unless that adjustment would result in unjustifiable hardship.   Many employers accept that workplace flexibility is an attraction and retention strategy.  Reasonable adjustments are also often called ‘workplace’ adjustments.  Examples of workplace adjustments that create an inclusive environment include:

• Allowing a person with disability to have some flexibility in their working hours, such as working part-time or starting and finishing later, or teleworking for part of the week
• Redistributing minor duties (i.e. not inherent requirements of a job) that a person with disability finds difficult to do
• Purchasing or modifying equipment like voice-activated software for someone with a vision impairment, an amplified phone for a person who is hard of hearing, or a digital recorder for someone who finds it difficult to take written notes
• Providing additional training, mentoring, supervision and support
• Providing an Auslan interpreter or captioning for a Deaf employee
• Providing increased font size for people with vision impairment
• Providing agendas in electronic formats for people who find it difficult to manipulate pages

What is “reasonable” when making adjustments? What do I need to do, and how will this fit with my organisation’s policies?

What is considered ‘reasonable’ will depend on the facts and circumstances of the particular situation. Under the DDA, an adjustment is considered reasonable unless it causes “unjustifiable hardship” to the employer or organisation. Unjustifiable hardship could be in the form of financial cost, an amendment to the physical building that is not possible due to council or other restrictions, or an adjustment that would disadvantage other employees.

There are a number of factors to take into account when considering whether an adjustment is reasonable:

The effectiveness of the adjustment in assisting the employee with disability to perform their job

• The practicality of the adjustment
• The extent of any disruption caused to business operations
• The financial or other costs of the adjustment
• The extent of the organisation’s financial and other resources
• The availability of financial or other assistance to help make the adjustment (e.g. the Employment Assistance Fund)
• The nature of your business activities and the size of your organisation

 For more information on reasonable adjustments visit http://www.jobaccess.gov.au/

 How do I get help for Free Workplace Assessments?

JobAccess is an Australian Government initiative that provides help and workplace solutions for the employment of people with disability.  JobAccess provides free workplace assessments. They will organise a review of your workplace and recommend adjustments that will assist employees with disability.

JobAccess has an Employment Assistance Fund which provides financial assistance to businesses so they can purchase a range of work-related modifications and services. Assistance is available for people who are about to start a job or who are currently working, as well as those who require assistance to find and prepare for work.

The Fund may reimburse the cost of work related modifications & services including, but not limited to:

The cost of modifications to the physical work environment

• Modifications to work vehicles/Adaptive equipment for the workplace
• Training required to learn how to use any equipment funded in the workplace
• Information and communication devices
• Auslan interpreting for interviews, workplace interpreting or co-worker Auslan training
• Specialist workplace services for employees with specific learning disorders and mental health conditions
• Disability awareness training/Deafness awareness training/Mental health awareness training

JobAccess has managed over 22,000 funding requests since inception and organised nearly 7,000 worksite assessments to determine disability-specific workplace needs. See the JobAccess website or phone 1800 464 800

SAVE THE DATE: “Time 2 Transition” Careers ForumGeelong Cats Community Centre, Skilled Stadium Geelong

Date: Tuesday 8^th September 2015

Time: 5pm-7pm

 Useful Websites

NDCO Victoria New Website

The Victorian National Disability Coordination Officer Program website has recently been u updated. The site provides a range of general information about post school support and transition options into education and employment for people with disability.  In addition to this each region contains specific information about events and services in your local area.

http://ndcovictoria.net.au

 National Disability Clearinghouse

Australian Disability and Indigenous Peoples’ Education Fund

https://ndoch.govspace.gov.au/archives/4776

Check out what’s New at the following link: http://ndoch.govspace.gov.au/news

 NDIS

Supports the NDIS will Fund in Relation to Education
This fact sheet provides information on what supports the NDIS will fund in relation to education and how to determine whether a support is funded by the NDIS or the school education system.  http://www.ndis.gov.au/node/740

 Supports the NDIS will Fund in Relation to Higher Education and Vocational Training

This fact sheet provides information on what supports the NDIS will fund in relation to higher education and vocational education and training (VET) and how to determine whether a support is funded by the NDIS or the higher education and VET system . http://www.ndis.gov.au/document/741

Supports the NDIS will Fund in Relation to Employment

This fact sheet provides information on what supports the NDIS will fund in relation to employment and how to determine whether a support is funded by the NDIS or the employment system. http://www.ndis.gov.au/document/743

Or Visit: www.ndis.gov.au for further information.

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

Victorian NDCO’s

The NDCO Program works strategically to assist people with disability access, and participate in ‘Tertiary Education’ and subsequent employment, through a national network of regionally based NDCOs. There are 31 NDCO regions in Australia with 7 in Victoria. Each NDCO region has an Advisory Committee with representation from key regional stakeholders. In Victoria the NDCO program has also established a state network to work on collaborative state priorities.

 Region 11 – Inner Northern Melbourne NDCO: Tania Perez TPerez@imvc.com.au Phone: (03) 9686 2354

Region 12 – Western Region NDCO: Gary Kerridge Email: gary.kerridge@deakin.edu.au Phone: 0439 113 364

Region 13 – Eastern Melbourne NDCO: Effie Kapsalos Email: ekapsalos@imvc.com.au Phone: (03) 9686 2354

Region 14 –Southern Melbourne NDCO: Sally Bailey Email: sbailey@skillsplus.com.au Phone: (03) 9784 0400

Region 15 – Northern Victoria NDCO: Mark Cottee Email: macottee@wodongatafe.edu.au Phone: (02) 6055 6309

Region 16 – Western Victoria NDCO: Pam Anderson Email: pam.anderson@skillsplus.com.au Phone 0418108555

Region 17 -Eastern Victoria and South East Melbourne NDCO: Andrea Evans McCall Email: andrea.evansmccall@skillsplus.com.au Phone: 0418 208 039

West Vic News

February/March 2015

Welcome to the first West Vic News for 2015! The NDCO Program for Western Victoria is heating up with a number of projects and professional development being offered to key stakeholders this year.

The Glenelg Transition Action Network (GTAN) will be once again delivering the Passport 2 Employment program in second term with another group of wonderful students and also to students in Hamilton.

GTAN has received some funding from Uniting Way to hold an employer/stakeholder engagement breakfast/luncheon in Portland.  If you fancy a drive to the lovely region of Portland…..Watch this space for date and time of the event!

The Wimmera Transition Action Network (WimTAN) will be commencing a Pathways with Purpose program for young people with disability from Year 10-12 to participate in an 8-12 week pre-employment course at no cost, all pro-bono and delivered by experts in their field.

Great News from the  National Ticket to Work office  which has finally received word that an application for seed funding from the Department of Social Services has been approved.

Fabulous news that Ticket to Work is being noticed, thanks to everybody’s hard work.

The National Ticket to Work office will move over to National Disability Service in the near future to ensure that we can strengthen the position though NDS research and policy arm and their support to increase Ticket to Work reach.

Michelle Wakefield, National TTW Manager met with NDIA, who are interested in the Ticket to Work model and how it can work in with the NDIS. There may be a possibility of Ticket to Work Network trailing and linking in with NDIS.

For more information about the Ticket to Work program please contact Michelle michelle@tickettowork.org.au or NDCO Region 16  pam.anderson@skillsplus.com.au

 Kind regards,

Pam Anderson

Pam Anderson NDCO Region 16  Mobile: 0418 108 555 Email:  pam.anderson@skillsplus.com.au

REVIEW:  ADVOCACY “Speaking up for their rights”

Advocacy is making sure that you have a choice, providing support to ensure you can exercise your rights…

What can an advocate do?

An advocate is someone who will support you to make a decision or have your opinion heard. So that you are treated fairly.

An Advocate might:

• Speak on your behalf;
• Write a letter with you
• Assist you to understand and resolve problems or complaints;
• Sit beside you in meetings to support you in the decisions you want to make;
• Gather information about other agencies/services that may be of assistance to you;
• Provide referral support to other services; and/or
• Assist you to advocate for yourself

Understanding Advocacy

Advocacy – to stand up for your rights or the rights of another person or group of people.

Self-Advocate – to act as your own advocate to stand up for your rights

Advocate – to give the level of support required to enable a person to stand up for his or her rights

Individual advocacy – advocacy which focuses on upholding the rights of an individual

Systemic Advocacy – advocacy which involves changes in systems and focuses on upholding the rights of a group of people

Empowerment – a process whereby people are able to make decisions about their own lives

Social Justice – a concept of equity whereby individuals in society have access to goods and services regardless of race, gender, disability, age, culture or socio-economic status

Where can I find Advocacy support in Western Victoria?

The Regional Information and Advocacy Council Inc (RIAC) provides information and advocacy support to people with all types of disabilities, their families and carers, including: the aged, the culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD); and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders. RIAC is accredited by the Australian Government as a quality organisation that complies with the National Disability Advocacy Standards.

RIAC Advocates service the following local government areas in Region 16:

• Central Goldfields
• Mildura Rural City
• Greater Geelong
• Borough of Queenscliffe
• West Wimmera
• Hindmarsh
• Yarriambiack

RIAC is a free and confidential services supporting people.

For further information freecall 1800 221 944 or 03 5822 1944.

National Relay Service: 133 677 Voice Calls or 1300 555 727 Speak & listen.

Email: admin@riac.org.au   Website: www.riac.org.au

ANZ Graduate Program

An invitation to join the region’s best connected and most respected bank.

ANZ is widening its presence in Asia, leveraging off our strong foundation in Australia and New Zealand to become the growth bank in the Asia Pacific region. As a result, there are more opportunities than ever before for graduates.

How does the ANZ Graduate Program work?

When you apply for the ANZ Graduate Program, you will be able to preference a specific program stream, depending on a number of aspects such as location, where your interest lies, and what discipline you have studied.  To find out more about what program stream would best suit you, visit the below pages:

• Explore Australia Graduate Program Streams
• Explore New Zealand Graduate Program Streams

It’s all about you

At ANZ we are building a vibrant, diverse and inclusive workforce. We value the diverse backgrounds, perspectives and life experiences of our people to help us forge strong connections with all our customers, innovate and make better decisions for our business. At ANZ you will have the opportunity to progress your career, regardless of gender, age, ethnicity, cultural background, disability, religion and sexual orientation.

In 2014, ANZ received 42 applications from candidates with a disability to our Graduate Program.  We received a further 22 applications from PWDs for our Summer Internship Program.  Of those applicants, three are now working with ANZ and another has recently completed his Summer Internship.

If that wasn’t enough, another seven students with disabilities were recruited in to the Bank through specialist Abilities Internships within the Finance, Commercial and Legal businesses.  All these placements were sourced initially from the Graduate and Summer Internship applicant pool for students with a disability.

So this year I am asking you to spread the word for me so we can increase the number of applications from students with disabilities.  The application period has already begun and will finish on 20^th March for students in Victoria and 27^th March for those outside.

Applications can be made on-line at http://www.anz.com.au/about-us/careers/graduate-intern-program/.

I will be contacting every student that discloses that they have disability in their application so that I can help them through the process and hopefully achieve a better outcome.

At ANZ we aim to create opportunities for and a work environment where candidates with a disability are empowered and successful.

Rob Crestani
Senior Consultant – Abilities Program
Australian Recruitment | Diversity
ANZ | Level 2, 833 Collins Street, Melbourne VIC 3008, AUSTRALIA 
Telephone: 03 8655 0922

 Disability Standards for Education 2005

Free Information Session

Date: Thursday 26^th March 2015  Time: 9.30 am–11.30 am

Venue: South West TAFE Theatre, Timor Street, Warrnambool

The National Disability Coordination Officer Program for Western Victoria in partnership with the Disability Discrimination Legal Service (Melbourne) and South West TAFE, Warrnambool is offering a FREE professional development presentationfor teachers, general disability support staff and advocates.  This information session will be based on understanding your legal obligations under the Disability Standards for Education Act 2005.

Our presenter, Deborah Randa (Solicitor and Community Legal Education Coordinator – Disability Discrimination Legal Service Melbourne) will provide an “easy to understand “clarification of the standards with examples of Disability Discrimination Legal Service case studies.  Deborah has also offered to answer any questions in relation to your own experiences and or queries.

Deborah’s presentation includes the following:

Legal Obligations

Enrolment Standards

Participation Standards

Curriculum development, accreditation and delivery Standards

Support services Standards

Harassment and Victimisation standards

Important definitions clarifying legal obligations e.g. who they apply to and towards whom?

 

Registrations close: Friday 20th March 2015   To register your attendance please contact: Bruce Dempsey, Disability Liaison Officer – Disability Support Student Support, South West TAFE Email: Bruce.Dempsey@swtafe.vic.edu.au T (03) 5564 8783  Or Pam Anderson, National Disability Coordination Officer, Western Victoria Region 16 Email: pam.anderson@skillsplus.com.au

Education providers

• On the same basis
• Reasonable adjustments
• Harassment

Exceptions/Defences

• Unjustifiable hardship
• Statutory authority
• Protection of public health
• Special measures

  

Disability Standards for Education 2005

Free Information Session

Date: Friday 27th March 2015 Time: 9.30 am–11.30 am

Venue: Encompass Community Services, 400 Pakington Street, Geelong

The National Disability Coordination Officer Program for Western Victoria in partnership with the Disability Discrimination Legal Service (Melbourne) is offering a FREE professional development presentation for teachers, general disability support staff and advocates.  This information session will be based on understanding your legal obligations under the Disability Standards for Education Act 2005.

Our presenter, Deborah Randa (Solicitor and Community Legal Education Coordinator – Disability Discrimination Legal Service Melbourne) will provide an “easy to understand “clarification of the standards with examples of Disability Discrimination Legal Service case studies.  Deborah has also offered to answer any questions in relation to your own experiences and or queries.

Deborah’s presentation includes the following:

Legal Obligations

Enrolment Standards

Participation Standards

Curriculum development, accreditation and delivery Standards

Support services Standards

Harassment and Victimisation standards

Important definitions clarifying legal obligations e.g. who they apply to and towards whom

 

PLACES ARE LIMITED TO 40: To register your attendance please contact: Pam Anderson, National Disability Coordination Officer, Western Victoria Region 16 Email: pam.anderson@skillsplus.com.au Mobile: 0418 108 555 PLEASE REGISTER AS SOON AS POSSIBLE TO AVOID MISSING OUT!

Tackling the Wicked Which’s of the West

Your invitation to this significant

Professional Development and Community Engagement event

in the Shire of Southern Grampians

Hear from Keynote speakers including:

Prof David Pennington, Prof Kevin Smith,  Dr Michael Hewitt-Gleeson, Dawn O’Neil, Ange Barry, Sir Gustav Nossal

Participate in workshops and hear the voice of community as we create shared understanding of our wicked problems:

Prevention of Violence,

Redefining Drug and Alcohol Policy,

Innovation in Farming Systems,

Improving Educational Outcomes, and

Marketing Regional Produce in a Global Market

Meet our inspirational facilitation team including:

Dr Graham Mitchell, Fi Mercer,  Lachy Patterson, Kieran Murrihy, and Grant Downie

Tickets to this two day forum are available from the Hamilton PAC

When: Wednesday and Thursday, 18 & 19 March 2015

Where: Hamilton Performing Arts Centre 113 Brown Street Hamilton

Go to our web site www.wickedwhichs.com.au or

follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/wickedwhichsofthewest

 

Speaker Series: Michael Traill on ‘Working together: Lessons from Goodstart early learning’

NDS and Russell Kennedy are pleased to invite you to attend a breakfast speaker series event with Michael Traill, Executive Director of Social Ventures Australia and Chair of Goodstart Early Learning. Date: 24 March 2015 Time: 7am for a 7.30am start – 9.30am. Venue: Russell Kennedy, Level 12, 469 La Trobe Street Melbourne Cost: NDS Members $35 NDS Industry Supporters or Research Affiliates: $50 Non NDS Members $70 RSVP: Online by 18 March 2015

Michael will provide his reflections on how four of Australia’s leading not-for-profit organisations; Social Ventures Australia, the Brotherhood of St Laurence, the Benevolent Society and Mission Australia came together to acquire and run 650 ABC Learning childcare centres.

Due to a variety of different reasons, ABC Learning went into administration,  impacting over 15% of the child care sector and leaving many fearing wholesale market failure in the child care sector.

The collapse of ABC was seen as an opportunity for the consortia of four organisations to work together to address one the key sources of many societal problems – poor early childhood experiences. Michael is passionate about the opportunities that can be created when organisations work together.

With the changing dynamics in the disability sector driven by the more market-oriented approach of the NDIS, a key question remains: will there be room for large scale collaboration amongst NFP providers?

Michael Traill AM

Executive Director, Social Ventures Australia (SVA)

Michael was the founding CEO of SVA from its inception in 2002 to late 2014 after 15 years as a co-founder and Executive Director of Macquarie Group’s private equity arm, Macquarie Direct Investment. Michael is Chair of GoodStart Early Learning, Chairman of the Opera Australia Capital Fund, Assetic Pty Ltd, and a Director of M H Carnegie & Co. He holds a BA (Hons) from the University of Melbourne and an MBA from Harvard University. 

Contact information:

Belinda Wallin, Project Manager, 03 8341 4307, Belinda.Wallin@nds.org.au

Conferences, Workshops and Training

Take Control – Train the Trainer Workshop (Office of the Public Advocate)

Learn to conduct a training session on Enduring powers of attorney and guardianship. (SESSION IS FREE)

When:                  Wednesday 15 April 2015

Time:   9.30 am – 1.00 pm

Where:  Office of the Public Advocate, Training Room Level 1, 204 Lygon Street, Carlton 3053

Who should attend this session? Professionals working in health and community settings who wish to deliver training sessions to staff and client groups.  This workshop will discuss the key points of enduring powers of attorney and guardianship.  Explore methods for delivering those key points and provide a resource kit and supports to enhance your training.  SESSION IS FREE but please note: If you are unable to attend, transfer of registration to a colleague is allowed with reasonable notice.  A charge of $40 will be levied against your organisation if you fail to attend without giving 48 hours’ notice or otherwise fail to provide an acceptable reason for non-attendance. Places are limited – Registrations online at:

http://takecontrol15042015.eventbrite.com.au

BiG Day In IT Careers Conference – Building opportunities for successful students

The ACS Foundation and Federation University Australia (through the Faculty of Science and Technology) are delighted to invite you and your students along to the BiG Day In IT Careers Conference in the Founders Hall, Caro Convention Centre at FedUni’s Mt Helen Campus (Ballarat) on Thursday 24 March 2015.
Join us to hear leading speakers from companies such as Westpac and WiseTech Global plus loads more to come, talking about the future of technology and how students can get involved in shaping the future.  Hear from cool industry speakers & visit exhibitor stands to learn about where a career in IT can take you – more speakers & exhibitors to be confirmed in early 2015 – don’t miss out, book your seats early!!
Further details http://acsfoundation.com.au/bdi/index.cfm?page=ballarat

Further information: Cindy McKenzie

Marketing Officer – Events | Marketing & Communications

Federation University Australia | Building N6 | Mt Helen

PO Box 663 Ballarat  Vic  3353

Telephone +61 3 5327 9120

ASQA Standards Guide

ASQA has developed this Standards Guide to assist RTOs to understand their obligations under the revised Standards for RTOs 2015. The main changes are with regards to governance and marketing.

http://www.asqa.gov.au/users-guide-to-the-standards-for-registered-training-organisations-2015/users-guide-to-the-standards-for-registered-training-organisations-2015.html

The new Standards are available on the ComLaw website. These will be made effective 1 April 2015.

http://www.comlaw.gov.au/Details/F2014L01377

Ballarat Koorie Community Forum

Wednesday 25^th March 2015

11:00am – 2:00pm

Koorie Services Hub, @ Kirrit Bareet, 403 Main Road Ballarat

This Community forum is being held to discuss local issues including representation on various local, regional and state-wide community groups/committees. It is planned for various groups to present a brief snapshot of their community and/or strategic plans and to discuss our overall direction as a community. This Forum will be an extension of community consultations conducted by VACSAL around the state over the past 3 years.

This forum will provide an ideal opportunity to strengthen our community representation on the multitude of Koorie community groups that continually call for community member representation. This will also serve to strengthen our collective voice as the local Aboriginal community. Morning/Afternoon tea and lunch will be provided. Please RSVP to  Anthony Lovett,Aboriginal Community Services Officer, Victorian Aboriginal Community Services Association Ltd, 403 Main Road, Ballarat Victoria 3350  Ph:   03 4308 0781  Mob: 0417 589 449

Victorian Disability Sector Awards – Nominations Open

Nominations for Victoria’s most prestigious disability sector awards are open, Minister for Housing, Disability and Ageing Martin Foley has announced….

Now in their fifth year, the Victorian Disability Sector Awards honour individuals, teams, organisations and businesses who go above and beyond to help people with a disability achieve their personal goals.

Previous winners have included developers of the nifty ‘Out and About’ app that helps people with a disability, their family and carers plan a day out through information about accessible venues and events. Another past winner designed an accessible hot air balloon basket, allowing wheelchair users to have a unique flight experience.

The awards are a joint initiative between National Disability Services and the Department of Health & Human Services.

Nominations for the 2015 Victorian Disability Sector Awards close on 30 March 2015 and can be made by any member of the public.

To nominate visit www.dhs.vic.gov.au/disabilitysectorawards

Quotes attributable to Minister for Housing, Disability & Ageing, Martin Foley

“I encourage Victorians to nominate those people, teams and organisations that are going the extra mile to help people with disability.”

“It can be simple, creative solutions that really make the difference.”

“Victoria continues to lead the way on delivering more choice and control for people with disability, and it is important to celebrate this type of innovation.”

Download PDF (346 Kb)

Central Highlands Children and Youth Area Partnership Community Forum

‘Co-Designing the Roadmap for Change’

Wednesday 25 March 10.30 am to 3.30 pm – Gum Sam Hall, Ararat

The Central Highlands Children and Youth Area Partnership brings together a range of government departments, service providers, service users and local communities to improve outcomes for vulnerable children and young people in the Central Highlands area.  This forum will build on the outcomes of the previous Call to Action forum by taking our priorities forward and co-designing the roadmap for change. The first part of the forum will provide an update on the work of the Area Partnership and have a focus on priorities, outcomes and strategies. The second part of the forum will focus on engaging vulnerable children, young people and their families This interactive forum will be of interest to anybody who wants to contribute to the work of the Central Highlands Area Partnership and will include some great speakers and ample opportunity for discussion and your input.  RSVP to Stacey.grano@dhs.vic.gov.au and for further information contact Katherine Cape, Principal Advisor to the Area Partnership at  Katherine.cape@dhs.vic.gov.au or on 5333 6651.

Useful Websites

NDCO Victoria New Website

The Victorian National Disability Coordination Officer Program website has recently been u updated. The site provides a range of general information about post school support and transition options into education and employment for people with disability.  In addition to this each region contains specific information about events and services in your local area.

http://ndcovictoria.net.au

National Disability Clearinghouse

Australian Disability and Indigenous Peoples’ Education Fund

https://ndoch.govspace.gov.au/archives/4776

Check out What’s New at the following link: http://ndoch.govspace.gov.au/news

NDIS

Supports the NDIS will Fund in Relation to Education
This fact sheet provides information on what supports the NDIS will fund in relation to education and how to determine whether a support is funded by the NDIS or the school education system.
http://www.ndis.gov.au/node/740

_________________________________________________________________________________________________

Victorian NDCO’s

The NDCO Program works strategically to assist people with disability access, and participate in ‘Tertiary Education’ and subsequent employment, through a national network of regionally based NDCOs. There are 31 NDCO regions in Australia with 7 in Victoria. Each NDCO region has an Advisory Committee with representation from key regional stakeholders. In Victoria the NDCO program has also established a state network to work on collaborative state priorities.

Region 11 – Inner Northern Melbourne NDCO: VACANT Phone: (03) 9686 2354

Region 12 – Western Region NDCO: Gary Kerridge Email: gary.kerridge@deakin.edu.au Phone: 0439 113 364

Region 13 – Eastern Melbourne NDCO: Effie Kapsalos Email: ekapsalos@imvc.com.au Phone: (03) 9686 2354

Region 14 –Southern Melbourne NDCO: Sally Bailey Email: sbailey@skillsplus.com.au Phone: (03) 9784 0400

Region 15 – Northern Victoria NDCO: Mark Cottee Email: macottee@wodongatafe.edu.au Phone: 02 6055 6309

Region 16 – Western Victoria NDCO: Pam Anderson Email: pam.anderson@skillsplus.com.au Phone 🙁 03) 5329 1531

Region 17 -Eastern Victoria and South East Melbourne NDCO: Andrea Evans McCall Email: andrea.evansmccall@skillsplus.com.au Phone: 0418 208 039