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.
Join us at 9.30am on Wednesday 7th May for a coffee at the new Specials Treats Café at Ballarat Specialist School Gillies St Campus which has recently opened to the public. Contact Rebecca on rpaton@pinarc.org.au or 0493 765 542 - Ararat Carers Group this group is currently on hold, but looking for new members.
Contact rpaton@pinarc.org.au - 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.
May meeting: Thursday 1st May 10am -12pm at Eclectic Tastes Café.
Something different for our June 5th get-together. We will be having Melanie Bouras, a Paediatric Dietitian, specialising in the management of children with an Autism Spectrum Disorder. Contact Amy at ballaratautismey@gmail.com - Ballarat Autism Parent Connection meets for coffee at the Robin Hood Hotel (Urban Bar) for social connection and information sharing. The next meeting for the Ballarat Autism Parent Connection Group Monday 19thMay at 10.30am. Group Flyer: https://www.pinarc.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Autism-Parent-Group-2025.pdf
- Bacchus Marsh Disability Parent Connection meet for social dinners and information sessions monthly on Monday evenings during school terms. The next get together is a 6.30pm on Monday 26th May at Darley Neighbourhood House. Contact rpaton@pinarc.org.au to register. Group Flyer: https://www.pinarc.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Bacchus-Marsh-Group-2025.pdf
- Ballarat Down Syndrome Parent Connection group meets regularly for social connection and information sharing. The next meeting is a DSV casual dinner Friday 2 May, 6:30 to 8:00pm. This event will feature a Q&A session with Wendy McNabb (a DSV Board Member), Juliana Addison (Member for Wendouree) and representatives from the Down Syndrome Advisory Network.Dinner and non-alcoholic drinks will be provided, and there is parking available at the venue. It will be a great chance to connect with others and get your questions answered.
Register here https://www.downsyndrome.org.au/blog/event/ballarat-dinner/ For Group information contact Wendy by email Charingal.park@bigpond.com or Mob 0429109692 for more information. - Daylesford Disability Parent Connection Group. The next meeting will be a morning tea 30am Wednesday 28th May at Daylesford Bowling Club, 8 Camp Street, Daylesford.
RSVP to rpaton@pinarc.org.au to register your interest. - 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
Would you like to start a new group? Our parent support coordinator can help. Please contact Rebecca Paton, on 0493765542 or at rpaton@pinarc.org.au.
carer events
Ballarat Parent Carer Connect – NDIS Changes Information Session
There have been many changes to the NDIS in recent months and there aree more to come.
This information session will cover:
– Changes to the LAC and Early Childhood roles
– Changes for families
– Changes to Respite
– NDIS what’s in/out
– Reassessment Process
– Q&A session
Date: Tuesday 13th May
Times: 7pm – 8.30pm
Venue: Pinarc Alfredtron, 1828 Sturt St.
Cost: free.
Places are limited for registration is essential. To register or for further information contact Rebecca Paton, Parent Support Program Coordinator
Phone: 0493 765 542 Email: rpaton@pinarc.org.au
activities for children and young people with disabilities
Creative Play & Art Centre (CPAC) Sensory Sessions
CPAC have allocated Tuesday afternoons exclusively to the special needs community. Of course, everyone is welcome during our standard CPAC opening hours, but this dedicated time ensures a calm, welcoming space tailored to the needs of individuals with sensory sensitivities, developmental differences, and other special needs. Our two-level facility features problem-solving stations, interactive building activities, and sensory play opportunities designed to foster creativity, confidence, and social engagement.
Session Details:
Times: 1:30 PM Tuesdays for 90 minutes
Cost: $25 per participant (carers and support workers attend free)
Book Here: Cpac Special Needs Casual Session
Website: https://creativeplayartcentre.com.au
Friends and Me Adventures (age 14+)
Fri 2nd May COSTCO #3
Sat 3rd May MONSTER TRUCKS
Sun 4th May EASTER GOLF TOURNAMENT
Fri 9th May CRUISE, COFFEE AND AMBLE
Sat 10th May POTTERY WHEEL WORKSHOP
Sun 11th May MOTHERS DAY
Fri 16th – Sun 18th May HORSE RIDING GLAMP
Fri 23rd May CRUISE, COFFEE AND AMBLE
Sat 24th May THE GREAT CAKE BAKE OFF
Sun 25th May TITANIC VR ADVENTURE Fri 30th May CRUISE, COFFEE AND AMBLE
Sat 31st May PAMPER/DFO SHOPPING
Sun 1st June LUNA PARK
FOR ANY QUESTIONS OR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST IN AN ACTIVITY PLEASE CONTACT:
RACHEL 0428 586 241
Unbeatable abilities Tabletop Gaming Program launching soon
Running three days a week, with two session times each day, this program is designed to encourage social engagement, storytelling, problem-solving, and teamwork through the exciting world of tabletop games.
Whether you’re a seasoned player or completely new to gaming, everyone is welcome! Our sessions are inclusive, supportive, and tailored to meet individual interests and needs under the NDIS framework.
Program Highlights:
- Open to all NDIS participants
- Run 3 days a week with flexible time slots
- Inclusive and supportive environment
- Focus on fun, connection, and personal development
For more information Contact brandonlee@unbeatableabilities.com.au
or visit https://www.unbeatableabilities.com.au
Online Art & Creativity Group – Teamwork & Social Skills
For Kids/Teens Aged: 8-9, 10-12, 13-15, 16-17, 18-19 (In Mini-Groups) Join Anytime
Picture your young person in collaborating with peers to create stunning artworks from the comfort of their own home, all while honing their skills in negotiation, active listening, and teamwork.
Select one or more 1-hour sessions per week at your convenience. This is not a fixed-duration course.
Engaging Art and Creativeness in a Fun Zoom Community – From Home
Share your opinions, Hear out others’ ideas, Develop conversational skills, Accept and consider feedback from others, Politely decline suggestions when necessary, Offer and accept compliments, Build rapport and make connections, Practice self-esteem and self-talk strategies, Collaborate on planning, Work together on creating, Excel as a team player.
https://pathwaypartnerships.com.au/art-%26-creativity-group#7d467b87-cf87-4c4c-a05f-8e25f4ab8490
Gather Online
This is an interactive and inclusive online program designed for young people aged 16-35 years old with mild to moderate support needs. The plan is to bring young adults with disabilities together in a fun, engaging, and supportive environment. Those accessing Gather Online would need to have the capacity to operate a computer and access Zoom-based sessions from their own home. They can of course have a support person with them, which many of our guests who have accessed online supports in the past do also utilise to ensure they can get the most out of the workshop/session and enjoy it to the fullest!
Reach out to Billy our Gather online coordinator: Email: gatheronline@stellarexperiences.com.au
Website: https://stellarexperiences.com.au/gather/
People Outdoors Upcoming Camps
Ballarat sensory chill/play space (PLAY SHED)
for young people/Adolescents with autism OR sensory issues
Do you struggle with mainstream play centres because of behavioural issues or just find them too over stimulating? Is a sensory space something you could use? Do you have ideas or suggestions?
In person opportunities to share your thoughts:
7 May 2025 – 9.00am to 10.30am Ballarat Specialist School Gillies Street Café
15 May 2025 – 9.30am to 11.00am Ballarat Specialist School Farm Café 800 Norman Street Invermay Park
21 May 2025 10.00 to 11.30am Avalon Nursery Café – 41 Kopkes Rd Haddon
We will not be asking parents to do any fundraising. Please contact Helen on (m) 0425 732 878 or hhimwise@iinet.net.au if you would like further information.
Melton Specialty Playgroup – Expressions of interest welcome
The Pinarc Parent Support Program, supported by the Victorian Government, is running a free playgroup for children aged birth to 4 years. This playgroup is on offer for children who have a physical disability or have physical development challenges that impact on their ability to engage with regular playgroup activities and will be supported by Georgia, one of our Speech Pathologists, and Louisa, one of our Occupational Therapists. Register your interest here: https://form.jotform.com/242621451743048
All abilities Sports options:
Are Able All Abilities Hoops
All Abilities Hoops is an inclusive basketball program designed for children aged 5–18 living with disability, providing a fun and supportive environment to learn the fundamentals of basketball. This program not only teaches essential skills like shooting, passing, and dribbling, but also fosters a love for sports, teamwork, and staying active, empowering participants to enjoy the game at their own pace!
The Term 2 program will begin on Thursday May 14th and will run for 7 weeks from 5pm – 5.45pm at Selkirk Stadium – 989 Norman St, Wendouree VIC 3355
All Abilities Auskick 2025.
Ballarat Bulldogs Football Netball Club with the help of the AFL & East Point Dragons are running all abilities Auskick 2025. https://www.playhq.com/afl/register/65218c
2 groups: Boy and girls 7-14 yrs, or All girls 5-12 yrs.
Location: White Flat Oval
When: Wednesday’s 4:30-5:30pm Starting: May 7th 2025 for 8 weeks
Come ‘n Try archery!
https://www.wendoureearchery.com/come-n-try-archery.html
The Ballarat Bulldogs Football Netball Club
Email ballarat@fida.org.au or simply turn up.
All Abilities Gymnastics – Ballarat Gymsports
https://www.ballaratgymsports.com/classes/inclusion/
Special Olympics Ballarat
Aquatics, basketball, equestrian, golf, gymnastics, and tenpin bowling. https://www.specialolympics.com.au/ballarat
Ballarat Netball Association All Abilities Netball (16+)
https://ballaratnetball.weebly.com/contact.html
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
ACD webinar – Advocating at School
Are you look for more support for your child with disability at school? Feeling unsure how to start the conversation or what you can reasonably ask for?
Join our friends at ACD for this popular FREE online workshop called Advocating at School.
You will get practical information to build your skills and confidence to better advocate for your child and learn how to build a positive relationship with your child’s school.
This workshop looks at:
- Children’s rights in education
- Reasonable adjustments: what they are and what you can request
- School processes
- Student support plans
Workshop dates:
- Monday 5 May: 10:00 am
- Tuesday 6 May: 7:00 pm
Registrations are filling quickly – register now.
Cafs Early Help Programs
Dad’s Programs
Dads Baby Bag Dads Baby Bag is a 6-week Parenting Program for fathers who are seeking to gain a better understanding of their baby’s pre/postnatal journey and exploration of an infant’s developmental milestones in the first 12 months. Hands on activities and demonstrations including education in:
Thursdays starting May 8th 2025, 10am – 12.30pm, , 515 Chisholm Street, Black Hill
Parenting Programs
Tuning into Teens Online is a FREE 6-week program that aims to help parents or carers to understand their Teens emotional needs. TINT supports parents and carers to build trusting relationship with their Teens. Wednesdays starting April 30th 2025, 7 – 8.30pm
Tuning Into Kids Online is a FREE 6-week program that aims to help parents or carers to understand their children’s emotional needs. Thursdays starting May 8th 2025 , 10am – 11.30am
Understanding your Baby A Solihull Parenting Program for Parents and Carers in partnership with Ballarat Community Health This Free Parenting Program is for parents/carers of children birth to 12 months. The group explores parenting and how babies develop and aims to support the parent/baby relationship. Babys welcome. Mondays starting April 28th, 2025, 10.30 -12.30pm, 515 Chisholm Street, Black Hill.
For consultation or Referral contact the Early Help Team:
family.support@cafs.or.au or 1800 692 237
Kids and Worry – CatholicCare Victoria Workshop
Monday, 12 May, 10.30am – 12.30pm
Ballarat Community Health Cooinda, 10 Learmonth Road, Ballarat VIC 3355
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/
ACD Teens and Beyond Workshops
Do you have a child aged 13+ with disability? If the answer’s yes, then you’re probably thinking about how best to support them with school and post-school options, puberty, and growing independence.
Topics include: Financial support, Building your teen’s independence, School and post-school options, Wellbeing: friendships, communication, behaviour support and good mental health
Each workshop consists of three consecutive sessions over three weeks and begins on the following dates:
- Monday 12 May 10:00 am
- Monday 12 May 7:00 pm
- Tuesday 13 May 10:00 am
- Wednesday 14 May 7:00 pm
All workshops are led by professional facilitators who are parents of young people with disability and who have personal experience in navigating the teenage years.
For more information or to register, visit:
Envisage – Free Parent Program in Ballarat
Upcoming in-person program in Ballarat ENVISAGE is a peer program designed for parents & caregivers raising children aged 0-8 with a disability, developmental concerns, or who are neurodiverse.
Discover practical, evidence-based strategies to help you better understand and advocate for your child’s needs. Facilitated by a qualified health professional and a parent peer from ACU.
Connect with others who may be on similar journeys and share experiences
Running on Tuesdays 13 May, 20 May, 3 June & 10 June (4 Sessions)
10:00am – 11:30am (Workshop 4 will run 10:00am-1:00pm)
Hosted at ACU Ballarat 1200 Mair Street, Ballarat.
Register here: redcap.acu.edu.au/surveys/?s=AARYYNXCTXETKRJM&workshop_id=ACU_VIC_130525_F4_654
City of Ballarat Baby and Children’s information pop-up
Tuesday 13 May, 9:30am -12pm at Lucas Community Hub, 17 Coltman Plaza, Lucas.
Come and meet our friendly team and find out about:
- Kindergarten registration
- Book immunisation and Maternal Child Health Appointments
- Playgroup Programs
- Giveaway bags for first 50 families
Library Outreach story time at 10:30
My Plan My Home Ballarat Workshop
Workshops for 6-8 participants with disabilities to learn about ways they can be more independent at home and home and living options.
Dates: Thursday May 15th, Wednesday June 11th
Time: 10am – 12pm
Location: Ballarat Library, 178 Doveton St North, Ballarat.
Tech Strategies for Families – CatholicCare Victoria Workshop
Thursday, 15 May, 5.30pm – 7.30pm, Online, via Zoom
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/
Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) & Low Demand Declarative Language
2-Day Educational and Informative Workshop For Parents & Carers Presented by Bobbi Cook
DAY 1: Thursday 15 May 2025, 9:30am – 2:30pm Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA)
Learn how PDA presents in children, its impact on family dynamics, and strategies for support.
DAY 2: Friday 16 May 2025, 9:30am – 2:30pm Low Demand Declarative Language
Discover how using low-demand environments and declarative language can help reduce overwhelm and increase engagement for individuals with PDA and related neurodivergent profiles. This day will include practical techniques and real-life applications for caregivers.
Location: Royal Mail Hotel 290 Albert Street, Sebastopol
Tickets: https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1387119?embed
Cost: $300.00, Includes: Morning tea, lunch & refreshments plus, take-home resources to implement what you have learnt
For Further Information: Email: reception@bcbm.com.au Call: 03 5309 0495
There is also a session for professionals:
Thu 15/05 3:30pm to 6pm & Fri 16/05 3:30pm to 6pm
Cost $200.00 includes: afternoon tea, refreshments and take away resources
A dedicated session for educators, therapists, support workers, support coordinators and all professionals working with children and young people. https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1387175
BALLARAT – able meet
20 May 2025, 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
North Ballarat Mars Stadium, 725 Creswick Rd, Wendouree VIC 3355, Australia
This is a great chance to connect with other NDIS providers, support coordinators, and industry professionals, build relationships, and strengthen the local NDIS community
https://www.ableplus.net.au/events/ballarat-able-meet-2
ACD – Working Out Dads:
Free online program for dads of children with developmental delay or disability
Tue 20 May 7.30pm
This is an evidence-based six-week online support group designed specifically for fathers of children with developmental delay or disability
What to expect:
- A free six-week program – no cost to join
- Weekly 90-minute online sessions, designed just for dads
- Led by two male facilitators, one of whom is the father of a child with disability
- A supportive space to connect with others and build practical strategies
- A 60-minute group discussion where dads can share, listen, and learn
- A 30-minute online session with a certified personal trainer focused on building activity and movement into daily life
So, if you’re a dad or if you think your partner would benefit from connecting with other dads, register today for this FREE program. bit.ly/WODmay25
Questions? • Email: educate@acd.org.au • Call 03 9880 7000 or 1800 654 013 (regional callers)
Kindergarten Registration Information Drop-In at Parent Place-Central Ballarat
39 Sturt Street, Ballarat.
Every Thursday 9:30am-2:30pm
Available information: when and how to register for kindergarten, assistance completing registration forms, benefits of kindergarten, sessional kindergarten, long day care kindergarten, discussing new and existing kindergarten registration. Any questions please contact Family and Children’s services ph:5320 520 or e: kindergarten@ballarat.vic.gov.au
Parents Pathways Program,
supporting parents and carers in planning their future.
For parents of children 0-6 years.
Parent Pathways is a voluntary service that can help you identify and achieve your future goals. The service is flexible, accessible and considerate of your individual circumstances.
Financial assistance is also available, you can get help to cover certain costs towards your future goals. This could include assistance to purchase a computer, get your licence, buy tools, equipment or a uniform to help with getting a job. The amount of financial support depends on your unique needs, future goals and current circumstances.
Skills and training are also available, a mentor will work with you to think about what you might like to do now and in the future. Your mentor can support you to do a training course, get a certificate or qualification or develop a new skill.
For information about eligibility and how to sign up, visit https://djerriwarrh.org.au/courses-programs/parent-pathways/
Ballarat Community Disability Expo
The Ballarat Community Disability Expo is your chance to meet local providers, discover new resources, and connect with others—all in one place!
Thursday, 19 June 2025, 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
North Ballarat Sports Club, 725 Creswick Rd Wendouree
Free entry!FREE coffee for the first 200 people
Meet local disability service providers
Get expert advice and explore support options
Information stalls and expert guidance
Quiet hour from 12pm – 1pm for those wanting to avoid the crowds
This is an event you won’t want to miss—register for your free tickets today!
https://events.humanitix.com/ballarat-community-disability-expo/tickets
2025 Yellow Ladybugs Conference:
supporting autistic girls and gender diverse students at school and beyond, is nearly here!
When: 3-5 June 2025
Where: Online & In-Person (option to attend Day 3 in Melbourne)
Explore over 50 diverse lived and professional perspectives in a neuro-affirming, trauma-informed, and inclusive environment.
Key Themes:
- Building inclusive classrooms
- Hidden needs like masking and monotropism
- Relational safety and sensory joy
More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/1946623952444941
new services for families
Australian Electoral Commission Recent legislative changes
Modernisation of some election processes
These amendments provide improvements for voters with a disability, strengthen the appropriate regulation of conduct at polling places, and modernise the availability of public inspection documents related to elections and referendums.
Some examples include:
- a change to the terminology of ‘unsound mind’, which many have found an offensive term, to more contemporary language
- expressly expanding the grounds for pre-poll and postal voting to people with a disability and their carers
- Prohibition of filming inside a polling place without permission.
NDIS Provider Library is ready to launch in Ballarat!
The Library provides a central publicly accessible space for families seeking information on NDIS providers in our area and sorted into the below categories:
- In Home/Community Based Care (1:1 care)
- Group Programs
- SIL/SDA
- STA
- Supported Employment
- School Holiday Programs
- General (NDIS administration incl. Support Coordination, Plan Management etc)
The library is situated at Dawson House, 15 Dawson Street South, Ballarat VIC 3350. It is located just past the main building reception and staff on site can assist families or provides to find it should it be needed.
The National Assistance Card
The National Assistance Card is a personalised card to assist people with disability and health conditions in the community.
The National Assistance Card can be used in everyday or emergency situations where a cardholder needs assistance or support.
The Card is currently available to autistic people and people with brain injury in Australia.
The National Assistance Card Service hope that, in the future, the National Assistance Card will be available to all people in Australia with disability and health conditions.
For more information visit: https://www.nationalassistancecard.com.au/about-the-card
Wonderkidz Respite and activities programs for kids
Based in Flemington near the Royal Children’s Hospital.
“ We are introducing our new sleepover service designed specifically for neurodiverse kids! Here, every child can unwind, feel safe, and enjoy a cozy environment while being cared for by our trained staff. We believe in creating a nurturing space where kids can rest, play, and connect with others at their own pace.
Sweet dreams and happy memories await! “
New Dentistry Under General Anaesthesia Now Available
Locations: Ballarat, Keilor Park, and Officer
Sleep Dentistry Services offers expert care with qualified Melbourne anaesthetists, specialising in general anaesthesia for both children and adults, including those with disabilities.
Fees: Comparable to day hospitals, with a Medicare rebate of 20–80%.
Waiting Times: Appointments available within one month.
Personalised Care: Your treatment is managed by a dedicated team—a specialist dentist, anaesthetist, and friendly practice manager.
Convenience: No hospital admission or overnight stay required.
Let us provide a comfortable and stress-free dental experience for you or your loved ones. For more information contact Gillian on 0480 641 626 or gillian@sleepdentistryservices.com.au
www.sleepdentistryservices.com.au
NDIS updates for families
Recent Changes
NDIS has published a new behaviour support operational guide, to make it clear what behaviour supports we can fund and who can provide them. Behaviour support | NDIS
They’ve also provided streamlined information and updates to the following guidelines:
- Our Guideline – Assistance animals detailing the definition of an assistance animal in line with the NDIS transitional rules. Assistance animals including dog guides | NDIS
- The Guideline – Vehicle modifications informing the rules for vehicle modifications, when the cost of these supports is more than what was included in the plan. Vehicle modifications and specialised driver training | NDIS
research and feedback opportunities
Safer Crossings for People with Disabilities
AFDO (Australian Federation of Disability Organisations) is partnering with La Trobe University’s Centre for Technology Infusion to improve safety and accessibility at rail level crossings. We need your help to make rail travel safer and more inclusive for people with disability – especially for people with physical or sensory disabilities. Share your insights on safety, accessibility, and technology at rail crossings
For every completed survey, La Trobe will donate $15 to AFDO to support our ongoing advocacy for people with disability.
Take the survey here: Pedestrian Level Crossing Experience | QuestionPro Survey
Monash University Research:
Dad matters: The roles, impact of caregiving and support needs of fathers of children with additional needs
Who can participate: You have can participate in this study if you are a father caring for a child between 2-14 years of age, living in Australia, and your child has a NDIS-eligible developmental delay/disorder. Your child is also currently accessing or has accessed at least two medical or allied health services for this condition within the last 12 months.
To participate or find out more, visit: https://monash.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_2slO44qOBSzB2ke
new resources for families of children with disabilities
New Rules for Carer Payment
Some of the rules for Carer Payment are changing so it’s easier for you to work and keep your payment.
From today, 20 March 2025, carers:
- Can work 100 hours spread across a 4 week period, rather than 25 hours within a week
- Don’t need to report training, study, volunteering or travel time to and from work
- Can use single respite days to keep your payment if you sometimes work more than 100 hours in a 4 week period.
See more: servicesaustralia.gov.au/carerpaymentwork
Financial Literacy Australia
FLA was created to empower NDIS participants by providing them with the financial knowledge and skills needed to achieve independence and self-confidence.
Support workers guide participants through the program using our easy facilitator guides.
- Start Together – Log in on a phone, tablet, or computer.
2. Follow the Guides – Step-by-step instructions, discussion questions & activity ideas.
3. Make It Engaging – Go at the participant’s pace, we provide tips & content!
4. Support & Encourage – Help with questions & track progress.
5. Flexible Learning – Adapt lessons to suit the participant’s needs.
We provide facilitator guides, activity ideas & support.
If you’re a Support Worker, you invoice the participant for your time!
You only pay for two hours per week, billed after you complete them.
There’s no extra cost if you finish a module faster.
Each module has a billing limit based on lesson length, ensuring you get the best value
You have to have an active NDIS plan to access the program. We are in the process of creating a program for Non-NDIS Participants
Our program provides interactive, self-paced learning on various financial topics, including budgeting, avoiding scams, insurance, and more, for all skill levels. No prior experience with money is required.
All services are provided online through our dedicated portal for self-paced learning, and Zoom for One-on-one mentoring.
More information: https://www.flaus.com.au/
Best Backyard Australia
10% Discount on Outdoor Furniture, Outdoor Living & Outdoor Kids Play Products.
We are pleased to offer a 10% discount on all outdoor living and outdoor childrens play products purchased via our website https://www.thebestbackyard.com.au or on the phone with one of our outdoor living team members. This discount applies to all products in our range, except products already on sale or custom made items. Use the live chat button on our website or let our team member know you are a Victorian Seniors Card or Carer Card holder and we’ll apply the special 10% discount for you.
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/
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.
