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. Next activity is 30 am Wednesday 15th October for a few games at Laserforce Ballarat. Contact Rebecca on rpaton@pinarc.org.au or 0493 765 542
- 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.
- 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 at York Street Church at 10am on Thursday 2nd October, 10am – 12pm. The guest speakers will be the Grampians Health Disability Liaison Officers.
Contact Amy at ballaratautismey@gmail.com - Ballarat Autism Parent Connection meets for coffee at the Robin Hood Hotel for social connection and information sharing. The next meeting for the Ballarat Autism Parent Connection Group Monday 20th October at 10.30am. In recognition of National Carers Week, we will have a special session focussed on strategies for carer wellbeing. 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 27th October 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 event will be the Carers Week lunch on Thursday 16th October at the Lake View Hotel.
Email rpaton@pinarc.org.au to register. Contact Wendy by email park@bigpond.com or Mob 0429109692 for more information about the group. - Daylesford Disability Parent Connection Group. The next meeting will be the Carers Week Dinner Tuesday 14th October, 6.30pm at Daylesford Bowls Club. Carers dinners subsidised $20 pp. Registration to rpaton@pinarc.org.au is essential as places are limited. Group Flyer: https://www.pinarc.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Daylesford-Disability-Parent-Group-2025.pdfSCODA – (Supporting Carers of Disabled Adults), is a Ballarat-based group who meet for lunch first Monday of each month. Contact Rose on 0459 216 992Would 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 Activities
Pinarc Carers Week Events
Parent Carer Connect Laserforce
Open to all parent carers of children and adults with disabilities.
Wednesday 15th October, 10.30 am – 11.30am
Laserforce Ballarat, 502 Howitt Street, Ballarat North
3 games for $15pp
To register: Email Rebecca Paton, rpaton@pinarc.org.au
Support for Carers Cinema Passes – Bacchus Marsh/Melton
Open to Bacchus Marsh and Melton area parent/guardian carers of children and adults with disabilities.
We have arranged for free tickets to Reading Cinemas Melton for local parent carers and their children.
Registrations open September 30th – October 7th
Tickets to be emailed to families between October 7th – 10th.
To register: Call 1800 746 272
Support for Carers Dinner in Daylesford
Open to all parent carers of children and young adults with disabilities.
Tuesday 14th October, 6.30pm – 8.30pm
Daylesford Bowling Club, 8 Camp Street, Daylesford
Choose a main meal from the senior’s menu for free or $20 discount off the meal of your choice. To register: Email Rebecca Paton, rpaton@pinarc.org.au
Ballarat Autism Early Years Connect Casual Canvas Session
Funded by Carers Victoria
Free painting session for parents/carers supporting young children (0 – 12 yrs) with autism.
Thursday 16th October, Arrive 9.50am for 10am – 12pm session.
The Art Club Hub, 80 Bridge Mall, Ballarat
To register: Email Rebecca Paton, rpaton@pinarc.org.au
Support for Carers Cinema Passes – Ararat
Open to Ararat parent/guardian carers of children and adults with disabilities
We have arranged for free tickets to Astor Cinema Ararat for local parent carers and their children.
Registrations open September 30th – October 8th
Tickets to be collected from the cinema by families between October 7th – 10th.
To register: Call 1800 746 272
Ballarat Down Syndrome Connection Carers Week Celebration Lunch
Funded by Carers Victoria
Date: Thursday 16th October Times: 12pm – 2.00pm
Venue: Lake View Hotel, 22 Wendouree Parade, Ballarat
Cost: All main meals free of charge
To register: Email Rebecca Paton, rpaton@pinarc.org.au
Carers Retreat 2026 – Anglesea Discovery Camp.
Save the date! March 21-22, 2026.
A kid-free weekend with other parent carers. Lots of laughs, beach time, games night, time to relax. All meals provided.
Registrations will open in October.
activities for children and young people with disabilities
Special Olympics Victoria State Games in Ballarat
Special Olympics Victoria States Games from October 3 – 5 in Ballarat! Hosted across various locations in Ballarat the event will bring hundreds of athletes, coaches, supporters and families to the city.
Opening Ceremony will begin on Saturday 4th October 2025 at 8:30am. For a list of sports, dates and locations visit: https://vic.torchrun.org.au/events/special-olympics-victoria-state-games/
This is the general Ballarat Special Olympics website – https://www.specialolympics.com.au/find-a-sport-near-me/vic/ballarat
Daytime Dance Parties for people with disabilities
Flowt is getting the party started where you can have fun, get fit and make friends.
Victoria Bowling Club in Ballarat is our new Dance Club with regular sessions for you to meet with your party crew. Dance and dress up in party accessories provided!
Snacks Available to Purchase and Drinks at Bar Prices.
Choose your session:
– Friday 4th of October 5pm-5:55pm OR 6pm – 6:55pm
– Friday 24th of October 5pm-5:55pm OR 6pm – 6:55pm
$15 for a 1 hour session or $25 if you want to attend both.
Party People must be accompanied by a Support Worker or Guardian who get in for free. Bookings essential. https://events.humanitix.com/daytime-dance-parties
Secure your spot and request a song for the DJ to play.
Building New Social Connections By Gellibrand Support Services
Monday, October 6 · 11am – 2pm
Gellibrand Support Services, 131 Albert Street Sebastopol, VIC 3356
Come along and meet new people and join in and enjoy a FREE BBQ and some fun activities – Cooking, Games and Social Interactions.
Get ready to expand your social circle and make new friends at our event – it’s all about building connections and having a great time! All ages welcome. Free parking at venue. Registration and more information here: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/building-new-social-connections-tickets-1672282615319
I CAN® Online Current Groups for Autistic Young People
https://icannetwork.online/online/group-cycles/
I CAN’s Online Cycles are interest-based group mentoring programs for autistic young people aged 7 – 22. Think of a Cycle as an extracurricular afternoon activity that aligns with a chosen interest and meets on Zoom – same day, same time, same mentors, for six weekly 60-minute sessions. Guided by trained autistic mentors, participants explore a shared special interest, connect with each other, and grow their confidence in a place where they never have to mask or apologise for being themselves.
Cycles give families the structure many autistic kids and teens love with five intakes per year (roughly one each school term), a consistent 5:00 – 6:00 PM or 6:30 – 7:30 PM AEST/AEDT time-slot, and the same welcoming faces each week.
Catholic Care Multi -Session Workshops
Tuning in to Kids – FREE
Helping parents and carers build their skills to help their children develop emotional intelligence and manage their feelings, using ‘emotion coaching’.
- Tuesdays, 14 Oct – 25 Nov, 10am – 12pm. CCV Ballarat FRC, 34 Peel Street Nth, Ballarat
- Thursdays, 23 Oct – 27 Nov, 12pm – 2pm. Online, via Microsoft Teams
Circle of Security (8 sessions) – FREE
Understand and support your child’s emotional world and the development of their self-esteem, by learning to read their emotional needs.
- Mondays, 20 Oct – 8 Dec, 11am – 1pm. CCV Ballarat FRC, 34 Peel Street Nth, Ballarat
- Wednesdays, 22 Oct – 10 Dec, 1pm – 3pm. Online, via Microsoft Teams
Registrations are essential for all of our programs and workshops, places are limited.
Register here: https://www.catholiccarevic.org.au/workshops/
If you have any questions, please call us on 1800 123 228
Halloween Karaoke Party
Come join us for a spooktacular evening filled with karaoke and costumes at Gellibrand Support Services.
Get ready to sing your heart out to your favorite Halloween tunes while dressed in your most creative and frightening outfits! This is the perfect opportunity to showcase your vocal talents and have a blast making new connections.
Our **Halloween Karaoke Party** promises to be a night of fun, laughter, and unforgettable memories. So mark your calendars and get ready for a howling good time!
Date: October 24th 2025 Time: 6pm – 9pm
Location: Gellibrand Support Services https://www.eventbrite.com/e/halloween-karaoke-party-tickets-1727503552629
ACMI Gameworlds
At ACMI, Fed Square until Sun 8 Feb 2026
Explore major titles like Minecraft, Final Fantasy XIV Online, The Elder Scrolls Online, SimCity, and Stardew Valley, joining iconic titles including World of Warcraft, The Sims, Neopets and the highly anticipated Hollow Knight: Silksong.
Spanning over 50 years of play, Game Worlds features more than 30 videogames from the 1970s to today, with 44 playable moments, original builds, rare design materials and hands-on prototypes you won’t find anywhere else.
Discover four new microgames made exclusively for ACMI by Australian developers – from nostalgic dial-ins to playful perspective shifts.
Register here: https://www.acmi.net.au/whats-on/game-worlds/
Auslan tour 18th October: https://www.acmi.net.au/whats-on/game-worlds/game-worlds-auslan-tour/
Access and Sensory Guide https://www.acmi.net.au/access/game-worlds-sensory-access-guide/
SpeakUP: Building skills and confidence for participation at school
Suitable for ages 7-12, 13-17 years
Autism Friendly, Disability (all) provider NDIS Registered
Bring a parent or carer
Contact: 1800 317 030. Location: Online
For more information visit https://www.lifestart.org.au/programs-and-events/speakup/
The STEM Maker Project
These sessions are still running and dates are available through September and October.
The Brainary is collaborating with City of Ballarat to offer FREE 3-session programs for 12-18 year olds across Victoria’s Ballarat Region in 2025. A chance to development of STEM skills by providing a hands-on learning opportunity with the latest technology.
The project has a strong focus on inclusivity and diversity within the field of STEM, aiming to create an environment where everyone feels welcome and inspired to pursue STEM in their future studies and careers.
There are courses running at various locations in Ballarat over the coming months so you are bound to find one to suit you! https://thebrainary.com/stem-maker-project-2025/
DOG MAN: THE MUSICAL | Arts Centre Melbourne
*Auslan Interpreted performance: Thursday 2 October, 11:00am. See Notes for more information.
**Relaxed Performance: Saturday 4 October, 2:00pm. See Notes for more information. https://www.artscentremelbourne.com.au/whats-on/2025/kids-and-families/dogman
Running Time65 minutes (no interval)
When evil cats and cyborg fish threaten the city, it’s time to call in the ultimate good boy… Dog Man!
With the head of a dog and the body of a policeman, Dog Man loves to fight crime and chew on the furniture.
Friends and Me (Ages 14+)
Fri 3rd Oct ROYAL MELBOURNE SHOW
Sat 4th Oct 1985 Kafe
Sun 5th Oct Mystery Day Extraordinaire
Fri 10th Oct CRUISE, COFFEE AND AMBLE
Sat 11th Oct Geelong arcade/waterfront
Fri 17th Oct CRUISE, COFFEE AND AMBLE
Sat 18th Oct Silver Ring Making
Sun 19th Oct Sea Life Aquarium
Fri 24th Oct CRUISE, COFFEE AND AMBLE
Sat 25th Oct Cat/Dog Lovers spectacular
Sun 26th Oct Lego Star Wars Exhibition
Fri 31st Oct CRUISE, COFFEE AND AMBLE
MAXIMUM 8 PARTICIPANTS PER OUTING
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)
Walk for Apraxia
2025 AUSTRALIA COMMUNITY WALK EVENT CELEBRATE & HONOR INDIVIDUALS WITH CHILDHOOD APRAXIA OF SPEECH!
Coordinators: Jeremy & Sheree Rudd Contact: australiawalk4apraxia@gmail.com
Date: Sunday 26 October 2025
Check-in & Activities: 11:00 a.m.
Ceremony & Walk: 12:00 p.m.
Location: Mill Point, Lake Wendouree 3350
How to Get Involved:
- Step 1 – Register for the walk (so we can recognise your Apraxia Star at the event): https://donorbox.org/events/786194
- Step 2 – Set up a fundraising page (Optional): https://donorbox.org/2025australiacommunitywalkevent
Unbeatable Abilities Activities
Current programs with availability are.
- Creative arts program
- Cooking program
- Tabletop Gaming – currently D & D and MTG
They are currently taking E.O.I for
- 3D Printing program
- Gardening ( planting plants, vegetables, Maintaining plants etc)
- Fun Night Fridays – Every week is a fun themed session
- Drawing & painting
- Social Club (Football games, other sporting events, shopping days, outings to new locations).
Casual HUB agreements for any NDIS participant in Ballarat that can come and use our hub for a small fee with their own workers (conditions apply ) if they need a safe place to chill out after school or during the day because at unbeatable abilities our space is for everyone not just our own participants.
Ballarat Libraries activities for kids, teens and adults.
Ballarat libraries offer a wide range of regular activities and special events. Legos groups, science sessions, arts and crafts, movies and more….
https://libraries.ballarat.vic.gov.au/whats-on/whats-on-brochure
Ballarat Specialist School FARM Fest Market
Monday 3rd November 10am – 2pm
800 Norman St, Invermay Park
Stalls, music, food, lots of fun!
People Outdoors Upcoming Camps
All abilities Sports options:
Come and Try – All Abilities Rowing
Discover the joy of rowing at Ballarat City Rowing Club’s All Abilities Rowing Come & Try Day!
Open to people of all abilities, this inclusive event is a fantastic opportunity to experience the sport in a supportive and welcoming environment. These events are FREE to attend.
Ballarat City Rowing Club
Session 1 Sunday 19 October 2025 3:00pm – 4:30pm
Session 2 Tuesday 21 October 2025 10:30am – 12:00pm
https://www.ballaratcityrowing.com/allabilities
All Abilities Basketball Competition
– a new initiative designed to provide inclusive opportunities and meaningful pathways for individuals of all abilities to participate in and enjoy the game of basketball.
When: Thursday afternoons (Term 4, 2025)
Where: Minerdome – Venue Information
Time: Approximately 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM
Duration: 8-week season
Who Can Participate: Teams or individuals from specialist schools, disability service providers, and inclusive sports programs
Competition Levels: Junior and Senior divisions
Each with two grades (subject to a minimum of four teams per division)
Modified rules to maximise participation and enjoyment
Ballarat Basketball is currently working with local clubs (Local Clubs Directory) to provide support to teams and foster the growth and sustainability of the competition.
This initiative is proudly supported by the Regional All-Abilities Participation Grant, which aims to increase access and remove barriers for individuals with disabilities to participate in sport across regional Victoria.
Are Able All Abilities Hoops
All Abilities Hoops is an inclusive basketball program designed for children aged 5–18 living with disability. https://www.ballaratbasketball.com/all-abilities-hoops/
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 Boy and girls 7-14 yrs, or All girls 5-12 yrs.
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
https://www.specialolympics.com.au/ballarat
Special Olympics Ballarat currently offer swimming, basketball and gymnastics during school terms. If you have any questions, or to find out more information about one of their programs, contact by phone on 0431 421 241 or by email using ballarat.media@specialolympics.com.au
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
Your Rights, Your Voice: Disability Discrimination Info Session in Ballarat Central (Free Legal Education Session)
When: Thursday 2 October 2025
Time: 10:00am – 12:00pm
Location: Face to face at Meeting Room 4 – Ballarat Library (178 Doveton St Nth, Ballarat Central)
Facilitated by: Kerry O’Hagan, Solicitor and Community Legal Education Coordinator at the Disability Discrimination Legal Service Inc.
Register here: https://events.humanitix.com/copy-of-your-rights-your-voice-disability-discrimination-info-session-in-ballaratcentral
This workshop is for people living with disability, carers, organisations, leaders, advocates, community groups and clubs working with people living with disability.
This free community education session aims to support people living with disability and or their carers to learn about:
- What areas of life are covered by disability discrimination law?
- What is direct discrimination?
- What is indirect discrimination?
- What are reasonable adjustments?
- How to make complaints about discrimination
Please contact Meg Lawton, Community Inclusion Officer (Access and Inclusion) at meglawton@ballarat.vic.gov.au if you have any questions about this session
City of Ballarat Baby & Children’s Information Pop Up
Monday 6 October, 9:30am-11:30am
Ballarat Library 178 Doveton St N, Ballarat
For families of children aged 0-5 years.
The friendly team will be available to support families with important local information, including:
- Kindergarten registration
- Booking immunization and Maternal & Child Health (MCH) appointments
- Playgroup programs and services
Inclusion Seekers Course: Building Community
Commencing 7 October 2025
Do you want to create a more welcoming community for everyone?
This 4 session course is for anyone who wants to create genuinely inclusive and healing experiences for all.
Over four sessions, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the barriers that people with disabilities and their families face in connecting to their communities. We’ll show you how to move beyond simple presence and help individuals become truly valued members of their community.
You will acquire practical tools to:
- Identify and strengthen the roles of families, supporters, and neighbours.
- Uncover the unique gifts of both individuals and the wider community.
- Intentionally plan experiences that are welcoming and inclusive for all.
After this four-session course, ten people with disabilities and their families will receive a small grant to help them start their own community projects.
Register here: https://www.belongingmatters.org/event-details/inclusion-seekers-4-session-course
Ballarat Ready-Set-Connect Event
Wed 08/10/2025 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM
Free for parent carers.
Venue: North Ballarat Sports Club MARS Stadium, 725 Creswick Rd, Ballarat VIC
Ballarat Ready-Set-Connect Event brings together service providers with Parents/Carers, Support Coordinators, Teachers and LACS in a fun and interactive speed dating format.
The networking event provides the opportunity for providers to share information about their business and products. And for People with Disabilities, Parents/Carers, Support Coordinators, Teachers and LACS, the event helps them keep up to date with current services in their local community and exercise their choice and control.
Register here: https://www.onecommunity.net.au/Ready-Set-Connect/Event/848-ballarat
I CAN Expo 2025
Thursday October 9, 2025 9:00am – 2:30pm AEDT
At Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (Level 2), 1 Convention Centre Pl, South Wharf.
Join us for our biggest I CAN Expo yet!. On the day you will see: talks from students, guest speakers and like-minded organisations who offer post-school pathways and employment opportunities. We also have educator-specific sessions, inclusive of a Department of Education workshop and professional learning. Click on this link to purchase an expo ticket.
Bookings and more information here: https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1412451
Emergency Planning Workshop for People Living with Disability and Carers
When: Saturday 11 October
Time: 12:00pm – 4:00pm (lunch from 12pm – 1pm)
Where: Ballarat Town Hall – Trench Room, 225 Sturt St, Ballarat Central VIC 3350, Australia
The City of Ballarat, in collaboration with the State Government of Victoria and Training X, is excited to bring you these amazing emergency preparedness workshops that will help you navigate developing a plan and address these issues and more. Sign up for your next FREE workshop today!
Lunch will be provided, with the workshop to commence at 1pm. Carers please also ensure you register your attendance.
National studies show that people living with disability are 2-4 times more likely to be injured or killed during an emergency. Despite this, over 60% of people living with disability do not have an emergency plan.
So what will you do for the first 72 hours if you had no access to power, water, gas, road access, experienced disrupted communications or had limited food? What would you do if you knew that emergency responders or support services could not get to you, or if you could not get to them?
Register here: https://events.humanitix.com/first-72-hours-workshop-dac-cob
Understanding Pathological Demand Avoidance in children and adolescents
In this webinar for parents and carers of autistic children and adolescents we will explore Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA).
Date: Monday 13 October, 2025
Time: 10:30 am – 11:30 am AEDT
Location: Online Workshop
We will cover the following topics:
- Understanding what Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is, and how it can show up in children, teens, and across the lifespan.
- The impact when PDA is misunderstood or unsupported – including burnout and emotion-based school avoidance.
- An overview of the current evidence and research on PDA, and where knowledge is still emerging.
- Practical, everyday strategies for parents and carers to support PDAers in home and school environments.
- The importance of environmental accommodations, advocacy, and a neuroaffirming approach.
- Highlighting the unique strengths and resilience of children and teens with PDA.
Register here: https://www.amaze.org.au/news-and-events/events/
The Journey to Inclusive Employment Webinar
Thu, 16 Oct Webinar via Zoom
Are you considering the following questions?
- Is inclusive, paid employment really possible for people with an intellectual disability or autism?
- When is the ideal time to start planning for employment?
- Is it too late to start planning for a job?
- What is the role of family members?
- What strategies could be most helpful?
Discuss strategies that families and others can apply to significantly increase the likelihood of successful, inclusive employment for people with intellectual disability or autism.
Tickets from $30. Book here: https://events.humanitix.com/the-journey-to-inclusive-employment
ACD – Teens and Beyond Workshop
This is a three-part workshop series for Victorian families of teens aged 13+ with disability. It provides practical information and aims to build parents’ skills and confidence to better support their teenagers.
It is unique in bringing together all the resources and information families need to support their teenagers now and in the future.
Families will learn about financial support, building their teen’s independence, school and post-school options, and wellbeing topics that include friendships, communication, behaviour support and good mental health. To learn more, watch this short video.
Workshop dates:
Monday 20, 27 October, 3 November 10:00 am
Monday 20, 27 October, 3 November 7:00 pm
Wednesday 22, 29 October, 5 November 7:00 pm
All workshops are led by our professional facilitators who are parents of young people with disability and who have personal experience navigating the teenage years.
Melton Ready-Set-Connect Event
Wed 29/10/2025 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM
Venue: Mick’s Function Room 65 Reserve Rd, Melton VIC
Melton Ready-Set-Connect Event brings together service providers with Parents/Carers, Support Coordinators, Teachers and LACS in a fun and interactive speed dating format.
The networking event provides the opportunity for providers to share information about their business and products. And for People with Disabilities, Parents/Carers, Support Coordinators, Teachers and LACS, the event helps them keep up to date with current services in their local community and exercise their choice and control.
Register here: https://www.onecommunity.net.au/Ready-Set-Connect/Event/858-melton
Understanding the NDIS: Overview of Changes to NDIS Legislation | NDIS
Wednesday, 29 October 2025 1:00pm to 2:00pm
This presentation will help you understand:
- what’s new
- what has changed
- what is still to come
We will cover a variety of topics in this session include funding periods, NDIS Supports, impairment information and other legislative reforms.
Sessions will be delivered via video-conference using Microsoft Teams.
https://www.ndis.gov.au/events/10896-understanding-ndis-overview-changes-ndis-legislation
Free Infant Child First Aid Course
Presented in partnership with PAEDS
This FREE Program is for parents/carers of babies and children. Babies under 12 months are welcome! The group explores First Aid techniques delivered by professionals. PAEDS vision is to empower all individuals with the knowledge to confidently manage illness and accidents! Issues we will explore include burns, head injury, rash, choking, breaks, CPR and more.
Date: October 28th 2025
Time: 10am- 1pm
Location: 515 Chisholm Street Black Hill.
Contact the Early Help Team on family.support@cafs.org.au or 1800 692 237
Ballarat Disability Expo
Hosted by AssistU Care and Support Services
Thursday, 20th November 2025
10am – 2pm at North Ballarat Sports Club.
A community event celebrating inclusion, connection, and support.
Find out about the services available in your area.
There will also be coffee vans and food vendors on site Plus, Power FM Ballarat will be joining us for a live broadcast, bringing the energy and entertainment throughout the day!
new services for families
Support for families experiencing School Can’t.
Ballarat Homeschooling Events and Chat | Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/groups/481421986004259
Ballarat Mums Neurodiverse Kids Meet Up
Sat 10/05/2025 at 9:30 am
https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/ballarat-mums-neurodiverse-kids-meet-up-tickets-1354775904199
NDIS updates for families
Recent Changes – Introduction of Funding Periods
From 19 May 2025, different funding periods will be introduced to new and reassessed plans.
This change will be rolled out gradually. Participants will not be impacted until they receive a new or reassessed plan following discussion with them to understand their circumstances.
Funding periods will usually be set at three-months on the basis this gives flexibility to participants but also help participants manage budgets
This approach makes sure funds are available at regular intervals and supports consistent use of funding over the length of the plan.
Funding periods don’t change the total amount of funding in a participant’s plan, only when the funding becomes available.
Funding periods in NDIS plans are not new. Changes to the NDIS Act introduced funding periods in October 2024. All new and reassessed plans since then have included 12-month funding periods.
The NDIA sets the length and amount of funding periods in line with NDIS laws, taking into account a participant’s individual needs and circumstances.
This includes things like:
- preferences
- any risks with overspending
- any risks of harm, fraud, or financial exploitation.
A funding period is the time during which part of a participant’s funding is available.
This can apply to the total funding amount (whole plan) or specific funding components.
https://ndis.gov.au/changes-ndis-legislation/frequently-asked-questions-about-legislation#funding
research and feedback opportunities
Thriving Kids – Have your say!
The Australian Parliament has announced an Inquiry into Thriving Kids. Families are being invited to complete a brief survey to inform the inquiry. The survey closes Friday, 10th October. We encourage everyone to have your say. he survey will be open until Friday, 10 October 2025.
https://www.aph.gov.au/…/Health…/ThrivingKidsinitiative
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
Calling all parents and carers – Raising Children Network needs your voice.
Help us support Australian families
Raising Children Network is looking for parents and carers to be part of our new Parent and Carer Panel. We want to gather a diverse group of people to help us create parenting information and resources that are useful and relevant to all types of Australian families, and always tuned in to contemporary parenting experiences.
If you join our Parent and Carer Panel, you’ll have the opportunity to shape our parenting information, resources and activities by sharing your views, feedback and experiences in surveys, focus groups and other consultations. We’ll also keep you up to date on new content and resources developed by the Raising Children Network team.
In most cases, you’ll be compensated for your involvement in consultation opportunities, often in the form of a gift voucher. The compensation will be made clear as part of each consultation opportunity.
Interested? To become a Parent and Carer Panel member, you must live in Australia and be a primary carer of at least one child. To express your interest in joining the Raising Children Network Parent and Carer Panel, fill out this form. We’ll notify successful applicants via email.
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
How to help guide autistic teens about sex
The A list has collected a number of articles that cover this topic and offer strategies for managing sex education in autistic teens https://alisthub.com.au/resource/how-to-help-guide-autistic-teens-about-sex/
ACD Recorded Webinars – A Good Life
https://www.acd.org.au/a-good-life/
Supported Decision Making – This webinar explains why it’s important and how to support your young person to make their own decisions as they grow into adults.
Wills and Estate Planning – This webinar will will guide you through the process of setting up a Will, trusts and Powers of Attorney.
Microboards – A Microboard is a small group of people, usually family, friends, and others who care about your young person.
Post-school – parents talk about what’s next
Raising Children Network website new ADHD Resources Tab
The Raising Children Network offers a wealth of information and support for parents and caregivers of children with ADHD. They provide resources on various aspects of ADHD, including understanding the condition, managing symptoms, and accessing support services. Their website offers practical strategies for parents, including tips on routines, communication, and creating supportive environments at home and school. https://raisingchildren.net.au/adhd
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/
Applications for the 2026 Young Carer Bursary Program will open at 10:00am AEDT on 10 October 2025, and close at 11:59pm AEDT on 7 November 2025.
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.
