pinarc babies (0-2) 
plan management 
therapy – teens 
therapy – adults 
local parent/carer groups & activities
- Ballarat Parent Carers Connect This group is open to all parent/guardian carers of children and young adults with disabilities. We meet for activities, information sessions and social coffees or meals.
The next activity is darts, pool and coffees at OzTenpin Ballarat, 10am Wednesday February 11th. - Ararat Parent Carer Connect Ararat region Parent/Guardian Carers of children and young adults (0-21yrs) with disabilities and additional needs are invited to join a new group with a focus on information sharing and social connection for carers. Contact rpaton@pinarc.org.au to register your interest. Meeting times TBA and dependent on response.
- Ballarat Autism Early Years Connect is a parent-led group supported by the Pinarc Parent Support Program. This group is for parents/carers supporting young children (0 – 12 yrs) with autism. The next meeting is 10.30 am Thursday 5th February at the Golf House Hotel in the Walker Room.
Contact Amy at ballaratautismey@gmail.com
Guest Speakers will Parenting Practitioners Michelle Schultz and Jennifer Townsend from the CatholicCare Regional Parenting Service. They have lots of programs and information sessions available for families of children with additional needs. - Ballarat Autism Parent Connection meets for coffee at the Robin Hood Hotel for social connection and information sharing. The next meeting is 10:30am Monday 16th February.
- Bacchus Marsh Disability Parent Connection meet for social dinners and information sessions monthly on Monday evenings during school terms. The next get-together is Monday 23rd February. Contact rpaton@pinarc.org.au for more information.
- Ballarat Down Syndrome Parent Connection group meets regularly for social connection and information sharing. The next meeting will be morning tea at the Ballarat Specialist School FARM Cafe, Norman Street on 23rd February from 10:15am. Contact Wendy.
- Daylesford Disability Parent Connection Group. The next meeting will be a morning tea 10.30am Wednesday 25th February at Daylesford Bowling Club, 8 Camp Street, Daylesford.
- SCODA – (Supporting Carers of Disabled Adults), is a Ballarat-based group who meet for lunch first Monday of each month. Contact Rose on 0459 216 992
Carer Activities
Carer Gateway Pathways for Carers
Offering Carers of people with a disability, medical condition, mental illness or those who are frail due to age a chance to attend a relaxed social walking event followed by a free morning tea together.
Walks are held on the 3rd Thursday of the month. (Thursday 19th February)
Meet at 9:45am for a 10:00am Start Pipers by the Lake, 403 Wendouree Parade Lake Wendouree VIC 3355 CONTACT US Phone: (03) 5333 7104 Email: Carers@gh.org.au
To attend, you will need to be registered with Carer Gateway & RSVP via phone or email.
If you need assistance to attend, or have any special requirements, please let staff know when you RSVP.
activities for children and young people with disabilities
Social Golf for Players of All Abilities
Supported by RACV Goldfields Resort and the Creswick Golf Club
Available to players of any age provided they have a licensed parent/carer with them to drive the cart. If under 16 possibly need to bring clubs as only have adult size available.
Come and enjoy a day of golfing fun and camaraderie, set against the scenic backdrop of the RACV Goldfields Resort. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or trying out the sport for the first time, these days promise a great time for all.
The first session will be an opportunity to have a hit on the driving range to get into the swing of golf followed by a few selected holes to give everyone a chance to enjoy the course.
Dates: Fortnightly on Sundays from Feb 1st to April 19th subject to interest and weather conditions.
Time 3:00pm to 5:00pm Meet at the Pro shop 15min prior, RACV Goldfields Resort, Midland Highway, Creswick.
Cost $20 per golf cart . All players must have a parent/carer supporting them (ie ratio of 1:1) and only a licensed parent/carer is allowed to drive the cart. Parents/Carers most welcome to play. Carts are limited to two people. Although carts are not compulsory they are highly recommended as the Creswick course is quite challenging for all players regardless of mobility.
These are not NDIS events, however if you require a receipt, please ask at the counter when paying for your golf cart.
RSVP: To ensure carts are available on arrival, please let Wendy know if you are attending by 12.00 midday on each of the playing days – Mob 0429 109692
FishAbility Victoria
FishAbility are hosting another free all abilities fishing day in on
Saturday February 21st 10:30 am to 12 pm, at Lake Calembeen, 5 Cushing Ave, Creswick
FishAbility sessions are part of an inclusive program FREE to Victorians living with a disability.
Designed specifically to cater for all levels of ability, this accessible Fishing Event seeks to promote time in nature, social interaction, rehabilitation, & fun via Fishing. First-timers and long-timers all welcome. Supported by our Fishcare Victoria staff and volunteers, all fishing gear is provided, including adaptive options to suit specific physical needs.
More information and registrations here: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/fishability-disability-friendly-fishing-clinics-ballarat-tickets-1981670855875
Ballarat Libraries After School Activities
Lego Club Ages 8+ Wendouree Library. Wed, 4 Feb, 4pm – 4:45pm.
Show off your imaginative building skills at the Ballarat Libraries Lego Club. Lego Club will feature a series of themed challenges that you will complete using Lego blocks and a lot of imagination.
Code Club Ages 8-12 Ballarat Library. Fri, 6 Feb, 4pm – 5pm
Learn how to create games, animations and applications at Code Club. Code Club is a fun way to develop valuable digital skills as well as logic, creativity, collaboration and communication. This is a co-learning activity where parents and carers are core support for their child to explore and discover together. Assistance from an accompanying adult is required.
Flight Club Ages 8-12 Ballarat Library. Wed, 4 Feb, 4pm – 5pm
Explore the wonder of flight in this 4-week program. Learn to make air powered rockets, roto-copters and more.
Junior Taskmaster. Ages 8-14 Wendouree Library. Wednesdays 11Feb – 18 March 3:45pm – 4:45pm
Join us for some puzzle solving and fun as you race to complete our brain busting problems set by your Taskmasters
Dungeons and Dragons Ages 12-18
Ballarat Library. Tue, 3 Feb, 4pm – 5:30pm
Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned player, our staff facilitated D&D sessions offer a space to explore new worlds, battle fierce monsters and forge friendships. Join a campaign or learn how to be a Dungeon Master.
YArtistry Ages 12-18 Ballarat Library Tue, 10 Feb, 4pm – 5:30pm AEDT
Let your creativity flow in this art session for all skill levels. Paint, draw, make and create in a variety of mediums including digital and multi-media. Bookings optional. Register to receive a reminder.
A Pressing Engagement Ages 12-18 Ballarat Library Tue, 24 Feb, 4pm – 5:30pm AEDT
Utilising Ballarat Community Health’s ‘Hot off the Press Cookbook’, this program is designed to aid teens and young adults in learning how to prepare simple, affordable and nutritious meals with minimum fuss.
Due to health and safety protocols spaces are strictly limited.
Bookings and more information here: https://events.humanitix.com/host/ballarat-libraries-kids-and-families
Ballarat Libraries full event schedule
From AI technology sessions to Arts and Crafts and African Drumming.
Ballarat libraries have sessions for everyone!
https://ballaratlib.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Ballarat-Libraries-Whats-On-SUMMER-2025.pdf
Playgroup for children with physical disability or have physical development challenges- Melton
Pinarc is offering a free playgroup for children aged birth to 5 years. This playgroup is on offer for children who have a physical disability or have physical development challenges that may impact their ability to attend a regular community playgroup or play with mainstream toys.
6x weekly sessions per term, running Thursdays 10am-11:30am – Beginning 12th February.
Location: West Melton Children’s & Community Centre 2 West Melton Drive, Melton West, 3337 How Much Cost: Free.
What to bring: Hat, sunscreen, jumper, snacks and drink bottle. Any equipment your child will need when outside of the home e.g. chairs, tube feed equipment, floor positioning equipment, communication device, stroller, etc.
Who will be there: Louisa (Occupational Therapist), Alisa (Physiotherapist) and Sarah Cannon (Speech Pathologist) will run playgroup sessions. Special incursions will also be organized throughout the term. How do I register: To register your interest, please complete this form: https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=aolzomHYgkyJMAae2bZUwMgNVtOExy1HgCjB3ijxfNpURTE0Qk84V1lJRExMQTc1Wko1TExTWjJCTS4u
Questions: Please call 1800 746 272
Friends and Me Activities (Suitable for aged 14+)
MAXIMUM 8 PARTICIPANTS PER OUTING
Sun 1st FEB ARCADE AT CROWN CASINO
Fri 6th FEB HAPPY BIRTHDAY SHARLENE
Sat 7th FEB BALLOON STORY
Sun 8th FEB MARIO KARTS
Wed 11th FEB CRUISE, COFFEE AND AMBLE
Sat 14th FEB PUPPY YOGA !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Sun 15th FEB FRUIT FOSSICKING AND JAM MAKING
Wed 18th FEB CRUISE, COFFEE AND AMBLE
Wed 25th FEB CRUISE, COFFEE AND AMBLE
Sat 28th FEB PAMPER DAY
FOR ANY QUESTIONS OR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST IN AN ACTIVITY PLEASE CONTACT :
RACHEL 0428 586 241 (30+ years of experience in the education and disability fields)
Inspire Support activities for 18+
Inspire Support run a community based activity group that occurs every Monday, Tuesday and Friday, as well as ‘expression of interest’ activities every weekend. The group is for those who love exploring new places, finding fun places to eat, heading to the cinema, and more.
There is also a lunch event held on Tuesday for the ladies, exploring cafes and restaurants both locally in Ballarat and out of town. This is a lovely event for a chat over some delicious food, and a fun way to meet new people.
To join the group, please contact reception@inspiresupport.com or phone at (03) 5334 2637 and if you have any questions or a suggested activity, please let us know.
The Inspire Support activity group is for people aged over 18.
Quest & Connect – New gaming-based day program for age16+
Something exciting for Ballarat — the region’s first gaming-based day program designed especially for neurodiverse and disabled individuals 16 and older who love gaming, creativity, and pop culture. Built on neuroaffirming values, Quest & Connect recognises and celebrates the many ways people think, communicate, socialise, and express themselves. This is a space where shared interests become the spark for genuine connection — through collaborative computer gaming, board games, content creation, hobby art, comic creation, storytelling and so much more. We know that specialised spaces for social gaming and community connection are rare — especially ones that truly honour individuality, autonomy, and identity.
Find out more here: https://www.questandconnect.com/program
Free Access to Pools for Ballarat Residents
City of Ballarat is offering free swimming at Black Hill and Buninyong pools for Ballarat residents.
The offer is only available to people who live in the City of Ballarat municipality.
The Eureka Pool and the Ballarat Aquatic and Lifestyle Centre will still charge their usual rates for entry.
In order to be eligible to receive free entry into the pools, people will need to sign up for a free Season Pass.
People can sign up online via the BALC online portal to register for the Season Pass, before collecting them at either Buninyong or Black Hill pool before swimming.
Proof of ID and residency will be required, with registration forms also available at the pools.
Ballarat Aquatic and Lifestyle Centre members do not need to sign up as they already have complimentary access to all City of Ballarat managed outdoor pools.
https://www.ballarataquaticcentre.com/season_pass/
BEING ME – Neuro-affirming Programme for Autistic Young People
BEING ME — Now Open for April 2026 Booking!
Over the 10 weeks, with 4 – 8 young people and 1 or 2 Specialist Autistic Mentors, we’ll move through themes that support connection, insight and self-understanding:
- Session 1: Getting to know each other – sharing joys, glimmers and interests
- Session 2: Neurodiversity and intersecting identities
- Session 3: What is ‘autism’? What does being Autistic mean to me and others?
- Session 4: Communication, socialising and friendships
- Session 5 & 6: Sensory experiences
- Session 7 & 8: Looking after myself
- Session 9: Self-advocacy
- Session 10: Wrapping up and moving forward
BEING ME is suitable for Age 8-12 or 12-16 (the programme may follow the same topics but the approach is adapted for the different age groups and then further personalised for the actual participants)
Find out more here: https://www.gr0ve.org/being-me-autism-understanding-children-young-people/
People Outdoors Upcoming Camps
AAA Play Website
Sports Central promote inclusive sport and recreation programs within the Central Highlands region through the AAA Play website https://www.aaaplay.org.au/
Information sessions, courses and webinars
Dyslexia & Neurodivergence Today – A Mini Symposium
Saturday 7 Febuary 2026
Session One: 10 – 12PM
Dyslexia & Neudivergence in a nutshell – Dr Kim Percy & Peter O’Mara
This talk will answer questions for parents, teachers, and adults who have wondered about neurodivergence beyond the buzz on social media. Pete and Kim will share their insights from the classroom and their lived experience.
Session Two: 2 – 4PM
School & Beyond: Supporting Dyslexic & Neurodivergent Girls’ Next Moves – Dr Helen Ross, UK
This talk explores Helen Ross’s research on dyslexia and inclusive education for young women aged 16–25, highlighting how girls are often overlooked and face challenges during transitions into further study or employment.
https://www.radiusart.com.au/dyslexiatoday
Kids and Worry
Tuesday, 10 February 2026, 11am – 12.30pm
Ballarat Family Relationship Centre, 34 Peel St North, Bakery Hill, Vic
The Kids and Worry workshop provides practical tools to help parents and carers assist their children to manage their worries and anxieties.
This free two-hour workshop explores reasons why children worry and ways parents and carers can support them. It will include ideas and practical tools to help parents and carers assist children to manage their worries. https://www.catholiccarevic.org.au/workshops/kids-and-worry/
Developing an Emergency Care Plan (for the person you care for)
A FREE online session for carers by Carers Victoria
10 Feb 2026 10.30am – 12.00pm
This 90 minute workshop is designed to help you consider and document what needs to be done to prepare for an emergency, when you are not able to care for others, as you usually would. This workshop will Include the following:
- Why it is important to have an emergency care plan
- What kind of emergencies to plan for
- Who might be able to help in an emergency
- What key information needs to be documented in an emergency care plan
- Practice working through an emergency care plan template.
This is an online event. A link will be provided upon registration.
https://www.carersvictoria.org.au/event/developing-an-emergency-care-plan-for-the-person-you-care-for-3/
ACD Workshop: Working with your child’s School
Find out what a Student Support Group (SSG) is, and how these meetings can help your child. Learn about children’s rights at school and what reasonable adjustments schools can provide.
Workshop dates: 16 February, 17 February, 18 February, 24 February
Venue: Online.
Register here: https://collections.humanitix.com/working-with-your-childs-school
Tech Strategies for Families
Monday 23 February 2026, 11am – 12.30pm
Ballarat Family Relationship Centre. 34 Peel St North, Bakery Hill, Vic
Reflect on technology use in your family; considering both the challenges and opportunities.
Parenting in a world driven by technology presents a set of challenges for parents, guardians, grandparents and carers. Tech is a part of our reality, but setting boundaries around its use is not always easy.
Join other parents and carers in this workshop which:
- presents current research
- helps you reflect on tech use in your family; considering both the challenges and opportunities
- explores strategies that focus on creating a safe and healthy tech environment for your family
https://www.catholiccarevic.org.au/workshops/tech-strategies-for-families/
Carers Ask an Expert: Explore disability housing options
A FREE online session by Carers Victoria in partnership with Scope Disability Services
25 Feb 2026 10.30am – 11.30am
Caring for a family member or friend living with a disability can feel overwhelming – especially when it comes to understanding housing and support options under the NDIS. It is not only a practical decision, but also an emotional journey. For many carers, this step can bring up feelings of relief, uncertainty, guilt, or even grief, alongside hope for greater independence, and opportunity.
Join Presenters Stefanie Colella, Scope Business Development Manager and Hayley Maxwell, an experienced Disability Sector Professional, to guide you through:
– Understanding the home and living services and supports available under the NDIS
– Ensuring you have the right team to support you to get the best possible outcomes
– Understand how disability accommodation funding works
– The steps to take to secure the right housing solution.
The presentation will be followed by a Q&A session, giving you the chance to ask questions relevant to your situation.
https://www.carersvictoria.org.au/event/carers-ask-an-expert-explore-disability-housing-options/
The Art of Being Assertive – Online Workshop
A FREE online workshop for carers by Carers Victoria
3 Mar 2026 10.30am – 12.00pm
Do you find yourself agreeing to things you’re not enthusiastic about or helping others when you’re already stretched? Do you struggle with saying “no” or expressing your true feelings?
If so, you’re not alone. This workshop is designed to help you develop assertive communication skills, enabling you to express your needs and desires with clarity and confidence.
Topics include:
- What is assertiveness?
- What are the benefits of being assertive
- Learning assertiveness skills
This session is open to all carers and caring families.
Click here to register: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/the-art-of-being-assertive-online-workshop-registration-1977571672106
Triple P Online: Children and Screens
Our kids are growing up in a world full of screens, watching, playing and connecting. If you’re noticing conflict around screen time in your home or worried about how it might be impacting your child’s mental health, you’re not alone. From dealing with tech tantrums to addressing concerns about online safety, this toolkit of evidence-based strategies can help you confidently parent in the digital age.
- Teach healthy digital habits and safe behaviour online
- Understand common challenges and why kids can find transitions from screens tricky
- Learn how to set clear expectations and screen time limits without the struggles
- Find the right balance between enjoying life in the real world and the digital world
- Do it anywhere, anytime that suits you
- Suitable for kids under 12 years
Families in Australia with children under 12 can now get FREE Triple P Online: Children and Screens
Register below and you’ll receive one year’s free access.
https://www.triplep-parenting.net.au/au/parenting-courses/triple-p-online-children-and-screens/
Monday Meetups for Parent: Carers of Neurodivergent Children (Online)
https://carersvictoria.org.au/event/monday-meetups-for-parent-carers-of-neurodivergent-children/
This space was created by and for carers of neurodivergent children, teens, and adults — including carers who are neurodivergent themselves. You’re not alone, and you’re warmly invited to share, listen, ask questions, or simply be here quietly. Whatever feels right for you.
Discover quick techniques to calm and regulate your nervous system, helping you feel more grounded and resilient.
- Dive into a key idea to shift your perspective and navigate challenges with more ease.
- Explore valuable strategies, tips, and tools designed to support both parents and children in their daily lives.
- Join an empathy circle where you’ll feel heard, supported, and uplifted by others who truly understand your journey.
This weekly space is designed to leave you feeling recharged, inspired, and better equipped to thrive in your caregiving role!
Disclaimer: This group offers peer support, not coaching, counselling or therapy.
We’re here as fellow carers with lived experience — not as professionals.
Organizer Samantha Wittenberg 0490501671 samantha.wittenberg@gmail.com
new services for families
Youth myki – Free travel for children under 18 – Transport Victoria
Under 18s travel free on all public transport with a Youth myki.
https://transport.vic.gov.au/news-and-resources/campaigns/travel-freeeeeeeee
Latrobe Community Health Service at Parent Place
Every Friday, 10:00am to 12:30pm, Latrobe Community Health Service is available at Parent Place!
The early childhood approach helps children younger than 6 with developmental delay or children younger than 9 with disability and their families / carers. It supports families to help children develop the skills they need to take part in daily activities and achieve the best possible outcomes throughout their life.
It is a free and walk-in service. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us on:
5320 5165 or parentplace@ballarat.vic.gov.au
Allied Justice
Ballarat and Grampians Community Legal Service is now known as “Allied Justice”.
They offer free legal information, advice, casework support, duty lawyer services, and related assistance to individuals
https://www.alliedjustice.org.au/
NDIS updates for families
What is an NDIS Check-In Call?
Apparently an NDIS check‑in is a short conversation (by phone or face‑to‑face) between you (or your nominee) and your “my NDIS” contact, which could be your Local Area Coordinator, Early Childhood Partner, or NDIA planner.
BUT we are hearing about Participants receiving ‘check-in’ calls from the NDIS which turn out to be unexpected Plan Reassessments!
This resource covers what a Check-In call is and how to be prepared if it turns into a Plan Reassessment!
https://mycarespace.com.au/resources/what-is-an-ndis-check%E2%80%91in
A new way of planning
We recently shared some information about the new way of NDIS planning, called new framework planning.
We’re sharing another update today, so you have the right information and know what to expect.
Key points
- The aim is for the first participants to begin using the new way of planning from mid-2026.
- Most participants will not see any changes for some time.
- You do not need to do anything right now.
- You can keep using your current NDIS plan and supports.
What will change
- The new planning process will include a support needs assessment.
- This is a guided conversation with a trained Assessor to understand a participant’s life and disability support needs.
- The assessment will help create a fair and flexible budget.
What will stay the same
- Importantly, plans will continue to be approved by real people.
- Participants will continue to have the right to ask for a plan review, including through the Administrative Review Tribunal.
When the changes are happening
- These changes will happen gradually over several years.
- That means most participants won’t see these changes for some time.
- You’ll get clear information and plenty of time to prepare before any changes affect you.
More information: Read the article on a new way of planning to learn more.
https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/11024-update-new-way-planning
Concerns about “Robo Plans” explained.
https://planhero.com.au/they-calling-it-robo-plan-what-we-know-and-what-we-dont/
research and feedback opportunities
Help Shape Ballarat’s Next Disability Access and Inclusion Plan (2026-30)
We’re seeking feedback from you to help us create the next Disability Access and Inclusion Plan (2026-2030). This is our 4-year Plan to make Ballarat a more inclusive and accessible community for everyone.
Sessions for People living with Disability & Carers:
Option 1: In person
When: Tuesday 24 February 2026 at 12:00pm – 2:00pm
Where: Selkirk Stadium, 989 Norman St, Wendouree VIC 3355
Register: https://events.humanitix.com/community-consultation-sessions-or-city-of-ballarat-s-next-disability-access-and-inclusion-plan-2026-30
Option 2: In person
When: Thursday 19 March 2026 at 10:00am – 12:00pm
Where: Trench Room, Ballarat Town Hall, 225 Sturt Street Ballarat 3350
Register: https://events.humanitix.com/community-feedback-session-2-or-city-of-ballarat-s-next-disability-access-and-inclusion-plan-2026-30
Option 3: Online
When: Tuesday 10 March 2026 at 6:00pm – 7:30pm
Where: Online via Microsoft Teams platform Register : Engagement Session for People Living with Disability and Carers – Online | City of Ballarat’s Next Disability Access and Inclusion Plan (2026-30)
Please contact Meg Lawton, Community Inclusion Officer (Access and Inclusion) at meglawton@ballarat.vic.gov.au if you have any queries or questions.
NDIS rules: Public consultation on new framework planning
This consultation is about the new framework planning rules.
New framework plans are designed to make NDIS planning clearer and more transparent. New framework plans will start from mid-2026 for some participants who are over the age of 16. It will be a phased introduction so many participants will not experience any change for some time. Participants will be told before anything changes for them, and support will be provided by the NDIA.
We are still developing the rules explaining how new framework planning will work in practice. We want to hear from NDIS participants and the disability community to get the rules right. https://consultations.health.gov.au/ndis/nfp-public-consultation/
Victoria Park Inclusive Play Space Survey
Victoria Park Inclusive Play Space has been a favourite since 2016, welcoming more than 140,000 visitors every year! It’s designed so everyone – kids, parents, grandparents, and carers – can play together.
Knowing how important the Play Zone is to our community, we need to know a few things. We want to understand how the play space is being used, who is using the space and what the experience has been like. Your feedback will help us improve and ensure the space continues to meet the needs of everyone.
You can share your feedback by completing the online survey below, complete a printable survey or contact us to share your thoughts
https://mysay.ballarat.vic.gov.au/victoria-park-inclusive-playspace/sensory-friendly-stay-and-play-zone
Ballarat Disability Housing Survey
This survey helps us understand what kind of homes people with specialist support needs want now and in the future. The information you share will be passed on to housing developers. It will help them design and build homes that better meet the needs of people in our community.
https://lifely.limesurvey.net/664421?lang=en
AMAZE research
A quick survey to help Amaze with its advocacy on the NDIS and health systems
We’re looking for about 10 minutes of your time to help inform us about your current experiences as NDIS participants or parents of participants. We know there have been lots of changes introduced since last October and want to capture our community’s experiences.
The survey is totally anonymous and its findings will be used in our policy and advocacy work, for example on the topic of the new support lists that are being introduced.
Here is the link to the survey: amaze.tfaforms.net/5125262
City of Ballarat Consultations
Your chance to have a say in City of Ballarat projects.
Stay up to date and have your say on these and other projects at https://mysay.ballarat.vic.gov.au/
new resources for families of children with disabilities
ACD NoticeBoard
As parents of children with disability, the to-do list never ends.
We’re here to help make back-to-school a little easier.
Sign up for NoticeBoard now and be ready for your FREE guide:
- How funding works
- What reasonable adjustments look like
- A handy “About Me” for teachers
- Explaining Student Support Group (SSG) meetings
- Toileting support at school
Don’t miss out – sign up today! https://acd.org.au/newsletter/
supports for families of children with disabilities
Carer Gateway
Caring for a friend or relative can be complicated. Carer Gateway can provide a range of supports to unpaid carers (including siblings as young carers). Call to register: 1800 422 737 8am to 6pm weekdays www.carergateway.gov.au/
Victorian Government Carer Card
The card provides discounts and benefits to carers in acknowledgement of this contribution. It’s easy and free to apply for the Carer Card. Applications can be made online. Alternatively, forms can be downloaded from this site, or you can request that one be posted to you by telephoning the Carer Card team on 1800 901 958 (toll free). Applications may take four to six weeks to process. www.carercard.vic.gov.au/
EACH Statewide Carer Support Services
EACH can fund counselling for carers and other family members (not just the primary carer, including siblings and grandparents) They can also fund ongoing counselling sessions if Carer Gateway funding runs out. www.each.com.au
Association for Children with a Disability
Resources: www.acd.org.au/information-and-resources/
Free telephone information and support:
Call 03 9880 7000 or 1800 654 013 (regional)
Or email acdsupport@acd.org.au
Or text 0475 577 997
Carer Allowance vs Carer Payment: which one is for you?
https://www.acd.org.au/carer-allowance-vs-carer-payment-which-one-is-for-you/
Disability Liaison Officer program
General information about the program:
https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/servicesandsupport/disability-liaison-officer-program
Grampians Health DLO Program:
https://www.bhs.org.au/services-and-clinics/disability-liaison-office/
Monash Centre For Developmental Disability Health
supports mainstream health services to build their capacity to address the health needs of adults with intellectual and associated developmental disabilities.
https://cddh.monashhealth.org/
PTV Access Travel Pass
Public Transport Victoria offers an “Access Travel Pass” for individuals with a permanent physical disability, cognitive condition or mental illness. This pass allows free travel on:
- Metropolitan trains, trams, and buses
- V/Line trains and coaches
- Regional town buses
- Regional services with a contract or service agreement with Public Transport Victoria
OT’s and physios can complete the necessary form.
For more details and to access the application form, please check out the link below:
https://www.ptv.vic.gov.au/tickets/myki/concessions-and-free-travel/access-travel-pass/
young carers supports
Little Dreamers – Sibling supports
Young Carer organisation, working with young people who provide unpaid care for a family member with a disability, illness or addiction across a range of direct support programs, these programs can be found here: www.littledreamers.org.au/programs/ A link for the application for support can be found at www.dreamershub.com.au
Carer Gateway Young Carer Supports
Carer Gateway can provide a range of supports to unpaid carers (including siblings as young carers). Call to register: 1800 422 737 8am to 6pm weekdays www.carergateway.gov.au
Young Carer Network
https://youngcarersnetwork.com.au/
Young Carer Network
https://youngcarersnetwork.com.au/
The Young Carers Network (YCN) is a nationally coordinated resource to raise young carer awareness, provide information, and direct young carers to appropriate pathways for support.
They also offer the Young Carer Bursary each year: https://youngcarersnetwork.com.au/bursary/young-carer-bursary/
Siblings Australia – Advocacy for school-aged siblings
So that we can better advocate for young siblings, Siblings Australia would like to hear from school-aged children about their experience of being a sibling of a person with disability, chronic illness, or mental health condition. If you’ve got kids in school, it would be great if you could encourage them to answer some questions for us. We are not collecting any identifiable data about children through this process.
We think it’s really important to be able to tell teachers and educators about how this experience might impact on schooling. So we’ve created a survey to find out more from families who are engaged in our services, you can access the survey HERE: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/6KG3L8S .
Completing the survey should only take a few minutes, and will really help us to understand what is needed when developing our supports.
