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 11th June for a coffee at the Ballarat Specialist School FARM café on Norman Street.   Contact Rebecca on rpaton@pinarc.org.au or 0493 765 542
  • Ararat Carers Afternoon Tea Ararat region Parent/Guardian Carers of children and young adults (0-21yrs) with disabilities and additional needs are invited to join us for a free afternoon tea.
    Tuesday 3rd June 1:30pm – 2:30pm at Ararat Neighbourhood House 56 Campbell Street, Ararat . Contact rpaton@pinarc.org.au  to register.
  • 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 the York Street Church Playroom on June 5th at 10am. 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 for social connection and information sharing. The next meeting for the Ballarat Autism Parent Connection Group Monday 16th June 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 23rd June for an Information Session on the changes to NDIS 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. For Group information contact Wendy by email park@bigpond.com or Mob 0429109692 for more information.
  • Daylesford Disability Parent Connection Group. The next meeting will be a morning tea 30am Wednesday 25th June at Daylesford Bowling Club, 8 Camp Street, Daylesford.
    RSVP essential to rpaton@pinarc.org.au to register your interest.  Group Flyer: https://www.pinarc.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Daylesford-Disability-Parent-Group-2025.pdf
  • 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

 Ararat Carers Afternoon Tea

Ararat region Parent/Guardian Carers of children and young adults (0-21yrs) with disabilities and additional needs are invited to join us for a free afternoon tea.
Tuesday 3rd June 1:30pm – 2:30pm at Ararat Neighbourhood House 56 Campbell Street, Ararat .
Contact rpaton@pinarc.org.au  to register.

Family Bowling – Melton

Saturday 14th of June 1.30pm – 3.30pm
Parent carers and their families are invited join us for 2 free games of Tenpin Bowling at Xplosions Bar and Bowl in Melton.  A member of Pinarc staff will meet you there and can provide some assistance if needed.

Lanes cater for up to 7 or 8 people so you may be sharing your lane with another carer family group.
Please advise when registering if this will pose a problem.

Register by calling: 1800 746 272

Places are limited, registrations close 12pm Wednesday 11th June or earlier if booked out.

NDIS Changes Information Session – Bacchus Marsh

There have been many changes to the NDIS in recent months and there are 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: Monday 23rd  June
Times:  7pm – 8.30pm
Venue: Darley Neighbourhood House, 33-35 Jonathan Dr, Darley
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

Transition to Highschool group – Pinarc OTs

Do you have a child aged 11-13 years who will be starting high school in 2026 who might require additional support and time to become familiar with the new routines and tasks they need for high school?
Facilitated by our experienced Occupational Therapists, Amy and Mark, this program will help build resilience, communication skills and problem-solving abilities for your child to increase their confidence moving into high school.
Commencing on Thursday 21 August, our group will run weekly during term 3 and 4, with a two week break for the school holidays. It will be held at Pinarc, 1828 Sturt Street, Alfredton, between 4pm-5pm.
Each week we will be providing parent information and connection at the same time as the children’s program, so a parent/guardian/carer needs to be present for this.
This group is open to anyone in the Ballarat region who would benefit from additional support with this important transition, you do not need to be accessing other Pinarc services.
Please fill in this form to sign up for the group. https://forms.office.com/r/B6nJu6ajnf

Pinarc Adult Winter Holiday Program

Pinarc Adult Holiday Program is now open for bookings. This program is based out of our Pennyweight site in Ballarat between 9am-3pm and each day is a new adventure! Full information on daily activities, costs and general requirements is available on our website https://www.pinarc.org.au/latest-news-and-updates/

This program is open to both current customers and people not currently using Pinarc services.
To register, contact alocoordinators@pinarc.org.au

The STEM Maker Project

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 7 courses running at various locations in Ballarat over the coming months so you are bound to find one to suit you!  The first one starts on June 10th. https://thebrainary.com/stem-maker-project-2025/

The Well Programs

The Well run several programs for families.
Craft & Sensory Playgroup – A sensitive playgroup with no forced interaction or loud music.
Homeschool Connect – A social group for homeschooling families to meet, learn and play together.
Tabletop Titans – Getting tweens & teens back into wholesome board games!
Counselling – Our in-house counsellor Kaye Lock runs Balanced Kids Counselling.
Singing Mamas – A beautiful singing groups for women that you can bring your babies to.
$8 Drop-in Play – These time slots are just for you to drop in and play without needing to book.
Curious Science  middle & junior primary school aged children will get to problem solve and create while learning how humans can use STEM to help our world.
Homeschool Drama Qualified actor and theatre coach Rebecca leads homeschooled tweens & teens in this fun and gentle exploration of acting and drama skills.
https://www.thewellbygek.com/whats-on-courses-classes

 The Lab – new group for 18+

The Lab is a tech and games based social group for autistic people who enjoy working and playing with computers. This is an over 18 group only.
ACTIVITIES * Minecraft * Roblox * Steam Games * Nintendo Switch * Playstation * Xbox * 3D Printing * Laser Cutting * Drawing * Colouring * Bracelet Making * Lego
SESSION TIMES First Session Wednesday 4 June 2025
Then weekly on Wednesday’s 7pm-9pm
Ballarat Tech School 136 Albert St Ballarat Central 3350
Email laurel@thelab.org.au
Website www.thelab.org.au

 People Outdoors Upcoming Camps

PO Calendar Feb-July 2025

 

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?  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.

VALID’s 2025 Advocacy in Action (AiA) conference!

16-17 June 2025, at the Novotel Hotel Function Centre in Bell St, Preston.
AiA will be a great opportunity to take part in important discussions on all aspects of advocacy.
Some conference sessions will include:

  • Changes to the NDIS
  • Parents with disabilities and the child protection system
  • Perspectives on advocacy from outside the disability sector
  • People with disabilities in the justice system
  • The relationship between regulation and advocacy

How to register
https://valid.org.au/event/advocacy-in-action-conference/.
If you have any questions or require further assistance, please contact Christine on 0475 698 884 or via email at christine@valid.org.au.

Friends and Me activities (Ages 14+)

Fri 6th June         CRUISE, COFFEE AND AMBLE
Sat 7th June        DOCKLANDS SABOTEURS
Sun 8th June       BOX HILL ‘FLIP OUT’
Fri 13th June       CRUISE, COFFEE AND AMBLE
Sat 14th June      CHAPEL STREET OP SHOP EXPERIENCE
Sun 15th June     STAINED GLASS WINDOWS
Fri 20th June       CRUISE, COFFEE AND AMBLE
Sat 21st June      MOVIES AND MUNCHIES
Sun 22nd June    HELLO KITTY CAFÉ     Fri 27th June – Sun 29th June        HORSE RIDING GLAMP
FOR ANY QUESTIONS OR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST IN AN ACTIVITY PLEASE CONTACT:
RACHEL 0428 586 241

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

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

NDIS Q&A INFO SESSIONS with Sam Paior from The Growing Space

Ballarat  Friday 13 June  9:30am – 2:30pm
Grampians Connect Centre 15 Dawson Street North Ballarat Central 3350
Online Thursday 12 June   7:00pm – 8:30pm
Zoom link
Please RSVP for each person attending:  RSVP here: https://bit.ly/NDISinfosessions
If you have any questions, please contact us on 1800 962 008 Contact: Elizabeth Werry

Supporting Siblings: A Free Webinar Series for Families

We’ve partnered with Belongside Families, a not-for-profit supporting families of children with disability, to bring you a free five-part webinar series designed to build resilience, nurture relationships, and make space for every child in your family.
Each session brings together professional expertise and lived experience through practical presentations and honest conversations with parents, carers, and practitioners. You’ll gain strategies and tools you can carry into everyday family life.

  • Supporting Relationships & Resilience: Tue 3 June
  • The Sibling Role: Now & Into the Future: Tue 10 June
  • School & Community Connections: Tue 17 June
  • Sibling Support in Medically Complex Families: Tue 24 June

All sessions run from 12pm-12:45pm for those in NSW, QLD and VIC,
11:30am-12.15pm for those in SA or 10:00am-10.45am for those in WA
Register to attend live or access the replay: https://collections.humanitix.com/siblings

Headspace Tuning Into Teens

Calling parents and carers of young people!
In term 2 we are running the acclaimed Tuning in to Teens program
Cost: Free
Day & Times: Mondays from 6-8pm for 3 weeks commencing Tuesday 10th June
Where: In person at headspace Ballarat, 28 Camp St Ballarat (Opposite Alfred Deakin Place)
Registrations: https://form.jotform.com/230318278271859

 UNDERSTANDING GENDER AFFIRMING CARE OPTIONS FOR TRANS AND GENDER DIVERSE YOUNG PEOPLE 

The Centre for Adolescent Health and The Education Hub from The Royal Children’s Hospital are excited to bring health professionals a series of webinars on Understanding gender affirming care options for trans and gender diverse young people. In this webinar series, expert health professionals share insights into how to support trans and gender diverse young people.
Sessions will run on Thursday 19 June, 3 July, 24 July, 7 August, 21 August from 6.30-8pm.
Please find details in the attached flyer. Enrolment is available through the Education Hub LMS.
Also, if you haven’t already, you may be interested to enrol in our Adolescent Health Education Day.

Understanding the NDIS Webinar Series: Community Connections

Join us for an informative webinar on NDIA Community Connections.
The NDIS can support all people with disability, even if you aren’t an NDIS participant.
This webinar is designed to help people with disability, families and carers understand what supports are available in the local community and how to access these supports.
Community connections can support you to:

  • find practical information about your disability or condition
  • access the support you need through mainstream and community services
  • connect with people with similar experiences
  • apply to the NDIS. This includes helping you to submit your access request.

Where: Virtual information sessions delivered via Microsoft Teams
Dates & Times: Tuesday 10 June (10:00am-11:00am AEST)
Wednesday 18 June (6:00pm-7:00pm AEST)
Thursday 26 June (1:00pm-2:00pm AEST)
RSVP: Please register via https://events.humanitix.com/copy-of-understanding-the-ndis-webinar-series-community-connections?

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  at North Ballarat Sports Club, 725 Creswick Rd Wendouree
Get your free tickets here: https://events.humanitix.com/ballarat-community-disability-expo/tickets

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

 

new services for families

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! “

https://wonderkidz.net.au/

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 – 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

 Recent and proposed changes for the NDIS and related systems: what does it mean for people with mental health support needs?

We are conducting a research study to understand how the recent and proposed changes to the NDIS and related systems, specifically the “Getting the NDIS Back on Track No. 1” amendments, might affect people with mental health challenges in Australia.
We are seeking participants who fall into the following categories:

  • NDIS participants with a psychosocial disability (whether as a primary or secondary disability)
  • NDIS participants with other type of disability
  • People with mental health challenges who are not currently part of the NDIS
  • Informal carers providing support for individuals with psychosocial disability or those experiencing mental health challenges, or
  • The general population

All participants must be 18 years of age or older and reside in Australia.
Taking part in this study will involve completing an anonymous survey online, which will take approximately 10 – 15 minutes.  https://redcap.sydney.edu.au/surveys/?s=NLETYCHJAFFRJ4J3  

Join Participant First to have your say

We know the best way to make the NDIS stronger is to listen to people with lived experience of disability and the NDIS.
The Participant First group is one way NDIS participants, families and carers can have their say about how to improve the NDIS experience, systems and processes.
People who have signed up for the group take part in activities such as:

  • focus groups or interviews
  • workshops on specific issues, processes or products
  • surveys and discussion papers
  • research projects.

Some of these feedback opportunities are paid.
Participant First members receive a newsletter every 2 weeks offering new opportunities to get involved. As a member, you can choose to register for opportunities you’re interested in.
All feedback is confidential and doesn’t get added to official participant records.  If you’re interested in joining Participant First, the first step is to fill out this information form.
https://myform.apps.ndia.gov.au/?src=https://forms.apps.ndia.gov.au/jpgbthlbzknpuvv/participantfirstinformationinfoform&org=ndis&theme=ndis

If you have any questions, you can contact participant.engagement@ndis.gov.au

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.

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

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.

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