pinarc babies (0-2) 
plan management 
therapy – teens 
therapy – adults 
local parent/carer groups & activities
- Ballarat Parent Carers Connect This group is open to all parent/guardian carers of children and young adults with disabilities. We meet for activities, information sessions and social coffees or meals.
The next activity is TBC but we are planning for an activity in the first week of May. - Ararat Parent Carer Connect Ararat region Parent/Guardian Carers of children and young adults (0-21yrs) are invited to share their expression of interest in forming a group. Contact rpaton@pinarc.org.au to register your interest. Meeting times TBA and dependent on response.
- Ballarat Autism Early Years Connect is a parent-led group supported by the Pinarc Parent Support Program. This group is for parents/carers supporting young children (0 – 12 yrs) with autism. The next meeting is Thursday 7th May at the Golf House Hotel in the Walker Room.
Contact the group leaders 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 is 30am Monday 20th April. Guest Speaker: Kocoda Supports
- Bacchus Marsh Disability Parent Connection meet for social dinners and information sessions monthly on Monday evenings during school terms. The next get-together is Monday 27th April. Contact rpaton@pinarc.org.au for more information.
- Ballarat Down Syndrome Parent Connection group meets regularly for social connection and information sharing. Contact rpaton@pinarc.org.au for more information.
- Daylesford Disability Parent Connection Group. The next meeting will be a morning tea 30am Wednesday 29th April at Daylesford Neighbourhood Centre, 13 Camp Street, Daylesford.
- SCODA – (Supporting Carers of Disabled Adults), is a Ballarat-based group who meet for lunch first Monday of each month. Contact Rose on 0459 216 992
Carer Activities
Carer Gateway Pathways for Carers
Offering Carers of people with a disability, medical condition, mental illness or those who are frail due to age a chance to attend a relaxed social walking event followed by a free morning tea together.
Walks are held on the 3rd Thursday of the month. (Thursday 16h April)
Meet at 9:45am for a 10:00am Start Pipers by the Lake, 403 Wendouree Parade Lake Wendouree VIC 3355 CONTACT US Phone: (03) 5333 7104 Email: Carers@gh.org.au
To attend, you will need to be registered with Carer Gateway & RSVP via phone or email.
If you need assistance to attend, or have any special requirements, please let staff know when you RSVP.
activities for children and young people with disabilities
Get Active Kids Voucher Program now open – CLOSING THURSDAY 2 April!
The Victorian Government’s Get Active Kids Voucher Program is now open, offering up to $200 per child to help eligible Victorian families cover the costs of organised sport and active recreation activities. Designed to reduce financial barriers and encourage children and young people to get involved, the program supports both those returning to sport and those trying something new. https://sportscentral.org.au/get-active-kids-voucher-program-now-open/
Skinner de Bruin ParaOrchestra – MYO Winter School
Eligibility: Anyone with a disability or chronic illness, or who is deaf or neurodivergent playing standard or adaptive instruments.
Standard: Open to anyone who plays an instrument or who has begun to explore music making on an instrument
Age range: 15 to 25 years old.
Instruments: All instrument types are welcome.
DATES: Tuesday 7th July to Saturday 11th July 2026
TIMES: 9:00am – 3:00pm (Tues – Fri), Showcase Concert Saturday – Times TBC
WHERE: University of Melbourne Southbank Campus
The Skinner de Bruin ParaOrchestra will play ensemble repertoire, explore improvisation, soundscapes and new compositions. This year the ParaOrchestra is excited to welcome neurodivergent composer Nat Bartsch who will work with our young musicians to write a new work to premiere at the Winter School Concert. ParaOrchestra staff are experienced in inclusive music education and adaptive musical instrument design and will work with individual participants to support their music making.
This is part of the Melbourne Youth Orchestras Winter School.
You can apply here: https://myo.org.au/programs/winter-school/
Please also note, the application form will not work on a phone. Please use a laptop or tablet to complete the form, and contact MYO if you are continuing to have issues (myo@myo.org.au).
Online group for Autistic young people who love football.
We have a new online group starting with a 2 week paid trial on:
24th April and 1st May
This group is for over 12s and will be on Fridays 4-5pm with GROVE Mentor Craig who also loves football! We’ll aim for 4 or 5 young people to begin with.
For further information about how our groups work (including costs):
Online Interest & Peer Groups for Autistic Children & Young People
We also have an ‘Around the World’ group starting soon – more details to follow!
https://www.gr0ve.org/online-interest-groups-autistic-children-young-people/
Young Carer Art Competition
From 2 March to 31 July 2026, Carer Gateway is running the Young Carer Art Competition, and there are some huge prizes up for grabs.
Create a drawing, painting, photograph or other artwork on paper or canvas inspired by the theme ‘Your Art, Your Voice’. The best entries will be showcased at a Young Carer Art Exhibition later in the year.
How to Enter:
- Register as a young carer with Carer Gateway for free: Call 1800 422 737 if you haven’t already.
- Submit your artwork: Take a photo of your artwork and email it to CGCarerEngagement@holstephealth.org.au, along with a short paragraph explaining your piece, before July 31st.
Who can enter: The competition is open to young carers aged 25 or under who care for a family member, friend or loved one, even if it’s only for a few hours a week. If this applies to someone you know – tell them to get involved!
How to win a prize: We’re taking submissions from all young carers, but if you want to be in the running to win a prize you will need to be registered with Carer Gateway (it’s free!).
The competition is open across three age groups: 12 and under, 13–18 years, 19–25 years.
Prizes for each age group: 1st prize: $500, 2nd prize: $250, 3rd prize: $100
Register here: https://www.carersvictoria.org.au/event/young-carer-art-competition/
Friends and Me Activities (Suitable for aged 14+)
Sat 4th April EASTER MINI GOLF CHALLENGE
Wed 8th April PLASTA PAINTING
Sat 11th April LATITUDE PARK
Wed 15th April BUBBLE PLANNET Sat 18th April INDOOR WATER SLIDES
Sun 19th April SUPERNOVA Wed 22nd April CRUISE, COFFEE AND AMBLE
Sun 26th April WIRE SCULPTURE 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)
Quest & Connect – New gaming-based day program for age16+
Something exciting for Ballarat — the region’s first gaming-based day program designed especially for neurodiverse and disabled individuals 16 and older who love gaming, creativity, and pop culture. Built on neuroaffirming values, Quest & Connect recognises and celebrates the many ways people think, communicate, socialise, and express themselves. This is a space where shared interests become the spark for genuine connection — through collaborative computer gaming, board games, content creation, hobby art, comic creation, storytelling and so much more. We know that specialised spaces for social gaming and community connection are rare — especially ones that truly honour individuality, autonomy, and identity.
Find out more here: https://www.questandconnect.com/program
BEING ME – Neuro-affirming Programme for Autistic Young People
BEING ME — Now Open for April 2026 Booking!
Over the 10 weeks, with 4 – 8 young people and 1 or 2 Specialist Autistic Mentors, we’ll move through themes that support connection, insight and self-understanding:
- Session 1: Getting to know each other – sharing joys, glimmers and interests
- Session 2: Neurodiversity and intersecting identities
- Session 3: What is ‘autism’? What does being Autistic mean to me and others?
- Session 4: Communication, socialising and friendships
- Session 5 & 6: Sensory experiences
- Session 7 & 8: Looking after myself
- Session 9: Self-advocacy
- Session 10: Wrapping up and moving forward
BEING ME is suitable for Age 8-12 or 12-16 (the programme may follow the same topics but the approach is adapted for the different age groups and then further personalised for the actual participants)
Find out more here: https://www.gr0ve.org/being-me-autism-understanding-children-young-people/
People Outdoors Upcoming Camps
Inclusive Sports programs and activities
Hands-On Coaching Support for Inclusive Programs
Sports Central is proud to offer free, practical coaching support to clubs delivering programs for people with disability. Their experienced coaches provide regular onsite guidance, working directly with your club’s coaches and volunteers to strengthen your program’s quality, accessibility and sustainability. This ensures every participant feels welcome and supported.
A Sports Central coach will visit your club to assist with program delivery, working alongside your existing team. They provide real-time support, demonstrating inclusive coaching strategies tailored to your environment. This hands-on, collaborative approach builds confidence in your coaches and helps create a truly welcoming experience for all participants.
Each participating club receives 90 minutes of coaching support per week for 8 weeks.
Spaces are limited – register your interest before the 20th March, 2026.
Expressions of interest here: https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=Xm68jrJyxk-VNAYDxssKlp-mbIdGczVOlX36ul9NcpVURFg2WEszSzMxNTZKOVA1Vkg1TlQ0OEhDTS4u
Social Golf for Players of All Abilities
Supported by RACV Goldfields Resort and the Creswick Golf Club
Available to players of any age provided they have a licensed parent/carer with them to drive the cart. If under 16 possibly need to bring clubs as only have adult size available.
Come and enjoy a day of golfing fun and camaraderie, set against the scenic backdrop of the RACV Goldfields Resort. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or trying out the sport for the first time, these days promise a great time for all.
The first session will be an opportunity to have a hit on the driving range to get into the swing of golf followed by a few selected holes to give everyone a chance to enjoy the course.
Dates: Fortnightly on Sundays from Feb 1st to April 19th subject to interest and weather conditions.
Time 3:00pm to 5:00pm Meet at the Pro shop 15min prior, RACV Goldfields Resort, Midland Highway, Creswick.
Cost $20 per golf cart . All players must have a parent/carer supporting them (ie ratio of 1:1) and only a licensed parent/carer is allowed to drive the cart. Parents/Carers most welcome to play. Carts are limited to two people. Although carts are not compulsory they are highly recommended as the Creswick course is quite challenging for all players regardless of mobility.
These are not NDIS events, however if you require a receipt, please ask at the counter when paying for your golf cart.
RSVP: To ensure carts are available on arrival, please let Wendy know if you are attending by 12.00 midday on each of the playing days – Mob 0429 109692
All Abilities Basketball is Back!
Get ready to shoot, score and have fun as Basketball Ballarat proudly welcomes back the All Abilities Competition for 2026! Supported by Sports Central, this inclusive 10-week program provides a safe, welcoming and supportive environment for players of all abilities to get involved in the game.
https://sportscentral.org.au/all-abilities-basketball-is-back/
Join the Special Olympics Ballarat Golf Program
Love golf or want to give it a go? Come and join the Special Olympics Ballarat Golf Program, a fun and inclusive initiative for people with an intellectual disability and/or autism. It’s a fantastic way to learn new skills, stay active, build confidence and make new friends, all in a welcoming and supportive environment. https://sportscentral.org.au/join-the-special-olympics-ballarat-golf-program/
The Bowls Crew – All Abilities Bowls Day at Sebastopol Bowling Club
Join us for a fun and inclusive All Abilities Bowls Day at Sebastopol Bowling Club, designed specifically for adults with disability. This relaxed and welcoming event gives participants the chance to learn and play bowls alongside supportive coaches and club volunteers. No experience is needed, and all equipment is provided. Just come along, have a go and enjoy time on the green. https://sportscentral.org.au/the-bowls-crew-all-abilities-bowls-day-at-sebastopol-bowling-club/
Information Session: Engaging People with Disability in Swimming
As part of Swimming Victoria’s upcoming classification weekend for swimmers with disability in Geelong, an information session will be delivered for key stakeholders committed to inclusive swimming. Coaches, learn-to-swim providers, schools and allied health professionals all play a vital role in creating meaningful pathways for people with disability to participate and thrive in the sport. https://sportscentral.org.au/information-session-engaging-people-with-disability-in-swimming/
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 Advocating at School Online workshop
Develop the skills and confidence to advocate for your child at school. We’ll cover children’s rights at school, reasonable adjustments, creating positive partnerships with school and the importance of advocacy.
Monday 27 April 10:00 am
Tuesday 28 April 10:00 am
Tuesday 28 April 7:00 pm
Wednesday 29 April 7:00 pm
For more information Email educate@acd.org.au Call 03 9880 7000 or 1800 654 013 regional
Book your place here: https://bit.ly/AdvocApr26Promo
Can’t Face School Online Support Group
When: Thursday 23 April, Thursday 7 and 21 May, & Thursday 4 June
Time: 7pm via Zoom
Join us in Term 2 for a series of supportive sessions for families navigating school refusal or school avoidance. Featuring an Occupational Therapist from the Centre of Perinatal Health and Parenting, the Can’t Face School Team, and a session on Gaming, Gambling and Technology.
Attend one session or join all four sessions. Each session explores a different theme, offering practical tips and easy to use strategies, whether it’s understanding what’s really behind school avoidance, easing anxiety, building new routines, or setting achievable, child‑centered goals.
For bookings or more information contact Alison on 0437 028 256 or alison.ford@salvationarmy.org.au
DSV Events for dads and male carers of children with Down syndrome.
Lunch in the Wild
https://www.downsyndrome.org.au/blog/event/lunch-in-the-wild/
Saturday, 16 May from 12pm to 3pm at Ballarat Wildlife Park and include a catered lunch in the Bushman’s Hut followed by an optional afternoon exploring the park. The men are invited to bring their family member with Down syndrome, or they can come alone if preferred.
Foundations of support: what dads and male role models mean in our lives – Online Q&A
https://www.downsyndrome.org.au/blog/event/male-role-models/
May 4, 2026 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
An honest, uplifting conversation about presence, support and the powerful impact of men in their lives.
We invite fathers, grandfathers and male carers of a child or adult with Down syndrome to join the Down Syndrome
Legendary dads footy day
https://www.downsyndrome.org.au/blog/event/dads-footy-day/
June 21, 2026 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Marvel Stadium, 740 Bourke Street, Docklands
All legendary dads, grandfathers and male carers of people with Down syndrome are invited to join Down Syndrome Victoria Chief Executive Officer Daniel Payne for a relaxed and enjoyable afternoon at the footy.
We will be watching the Saints take on Bulldogs in a reserved seating section at Marvel Stadium. The match starts at 3:15pm. You can bring your family member with Down syndrome to join the fun!
There’ll be no formal presentations and no pressure — just a friendly AFL game and a great opportunity to connect with other dads and men in the DSV community.
Source Disability Expo
Friday 17 & Saturday 18 April – 10am–4pm both days!
Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre (Door 6)
FREE tickets available here: https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1534618
Whether you’re looking for supports, services, new products, or just a great day out, this is the place to be. With 130+ product and service providers (including lots of brand-new exhibitors), the expo is packed with opportunities to explore, ask questions, and make valuable connections.
- A fantastic lineup of performers and live activities
- Fun zones for all ages – including Active, Arcade, StyleMe and Movie Hubs
- A vibrant, family-friendly day out for everyone
Ballarat Community Disability Expo.
Where: North Ballarat Sports Club, 725 Creswick Road, Wendouree
When: Wednesday April 29th from 10am – 1pm
Come along to have your questions answered and explore over 30 different local disability providers offering supports and services to help you reach your goals.
Plus – the first 200 attendees will receive a FREE coffee thanks to VMCH!
Free tickets and information available here: https://events.humanitix.com/ballarat-community-disability-expo-zy3bgvpt
Source Magazine Autumn Issue
• Tubie Life – one family’s story of raising a tube-fed child.
• Mealtimes without meltdowns – practical feeding strategies.
• Functional Capacity Assessments – what they are and why they matter.
• Thriving Kids – where the conversation is heading.
• Caleb Rixon – stroke survivor and advocate.
• Practical finds – feeding aids, seating & positioning aids, and equipment for play and movement.
https://sourcekids.com.au/source-kids-magazine-autumn-issue-2026/
Monday Meetups for Parent: Carers of Neurodivergent Children (Online)
https://carersvictoria.org.au/event/monday-meetups-for-parent-carers-of-neurodivergent-children/
This space was created by and for carers of neurodivergent children, teens, and adults — including carers who are neurodivergent themselves. You’re not alone, and you’re warmly invited to share, listen, ask questions, or simply be here quietly. Whatever feels right for you.
Disclaimer: This group offers peer support, not coaching, counselling or therapy.
We’re here as fellow carers with lived experience — not as professionals.
Organizer Samantha Wittenberg 0490501671 samantha.wittenberg@gmail.com
Yellow Ladybugs 2026 Conference
new services for families
Public transport is free across the state from Tuesday 31 March to Thursday 30 April.
This includes Melbourne trains, trams and buses; and regional trains, coaches and buses (including intertown and regional town bus services). You do not need to tap on, but if you do you will not be charged.
Youth myki – Free travel for children under 18 – Transport Victoria
Under 18s travel free on all public transport with a Youth myki.
https://transport.vic.gov.au/news-and-resources/campaigns/travel-freeeeeeeee
Latrobe Community Health Service at Parent Place
Every Friday, 10:00am to 12:30pm, Latrobe Community Health Service is available at Parent Place!
The early childhood approach helps children younger than 6 with developmental delay or children younger than 9 with disability and their families / carers. It supports families to help children develop the skills they need to take part in daily activities and achieve the best possible outcomes throughout their life.
It is a free and walk-in service. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us on:
5320 5165 or parentplace@ballarat.vic.gov.au
Allied Justice
Ballarat and Grampians Community Legal Service is now known as “Allied Justice”.
They offer free legal information, advice, casework support, duty lawyer services, and related assistance to individuals
https://www.alliedjustice.org.au/
NDIS updates for families
Thriving Kids – what’s been announced
https://acd.org.au/ndis-changes/#h-thriving-kids-what-s-been-announced
A new way of planning
https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/11024-update-new-way-planning
Concerns about “Robo Plans” explained.
https://planhero.com.au/they-calling-it-robo-plan-what-we-know-and-what-we-dont/
research and feedback opportunities
Survey: Child and family experiences of Positive Behaviour Support
This survey is for families of children aged 9 years and older who currently use, or have previously used, Positive Behaviour Support.
If you have more than one child who has used Positive Behaviour Support, please answer about one child only. If you’d like, you’re welcome to complete the survey again to share about another child. https://www.tfaforms.com/5216572
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
Triple P Online: Children and Screens
Our kids are growing up in a world full of screens, watching, playing and connecting. If you’re noticing conflict around screen time in your home or worried about how it might be impacting your child’s mental health, you’re not alone. From dealing with tech tantrums to addressing concerns about online safety, this toolkit of evidence-based strategies can help you confidently parent in the digital age.
- Teach healthy digital habits and safe behaviour online
- Understand common challenges and why kids can find transitions from screens tricky
- Learn how to set clear expectations and screen time limits without the struggles
- Find the right balance between enjoying life in the real world and the digital world
- Do it anywhere, anytime that suits you
- Suitable for kids under 12 years
Families in Australia with children under 12 can now get FREE Triple P Online: Children and Screens
Register below and you’ll receive one year’s free access. https://www.triplep-parenting.net.au/au/parenting-courses/triple-p-online-children-and-screens/
Know My Rights – NDIS Microlearning
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) exists to support people with disabilities, but understanding your rights is key to getting the most out of it.
This platform provides easy-to-follow learning to help you:
- Know what supports you are entitled to.
- Understand how to advocate for yourself or others.
- Take action when something isn’t right.
https://www.knowmyrights.org.au/
ACD NoticeBoard
As parents of children with disability, the to-do list never ends.
We’re here to help make back-to-school a little easier.
Sign up for NoticeBoard now and be ready for your FREE guide:
- How funding works
- What reasonable adjustments look like
- A handy “About Me” for teachers
- Explaining Student Support Group (SSG) meetings
- Toileting support at school
Don’t miss out – sign up today! https://acd.org.au/newsletter/
Your rights – Office of the Public Advocate
This page provides information about powers of attorney, dealing with police, medical decisions, NDIS decisions, Guardianship and Administration and advocacy.
https://www.publicadvocate.vic.gov.au/your-rights
New free work resource series for autistic and AuDHD people
Part 1 looks at finding the right work fit and explores what “fit” really means for autistic and AuDHD people.
https://yellowladybugs.myshopify.com/products/finding-the-right-work-fit-a-guide-for-autistic-and-audhd-people-part-1
Part 2 walks through the job search process itself, including job ads, applications and interviews, through an autistic and AuDHD lens. https://yellowladybugs.myshopify.com/products/looking-for-work-a-guide-for-autistic-and-audhd-people-part-2
Part 3 focuses on disclosure and masking in the workplace and explores the very real decisions many of us have to make around safety, privacy, energy and self-advocacy once we are in a role. https://yellowladybugs.myshopify.com/products/disclosure-masking-at-work-a-guide-for-autistic-and-audhd-people-part-3
Part 4 looks at workplace adjustments and supports, what these can look like in real workplaces, how to ask for them, and how even small changes can reduce overwhelm and make work feel more manageable.
https://yellowladybugs.myshopify.com/products/workplace-adjustments-amp-supports-a-guide-for-autistic-and-audhd-people-part-4
Part 5 explores navigating workplace issues and avoiding burnout, including misunderstandings, conflict and the practical ways you can protect yourself and advocate for change when things feel hard or unsafe.
https://yellowladybugs.myshopify.com/products/sustaining-work-avoiding-burnout-a-guide-for-autistic-and-audhd-people-part-5
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 https://www.carergateway.gov.au/
Victorian Government Carer Card
https://www.carercard.vic.gov.au/
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.
Villa Maria Support for Carers
Villa Maria run several events for carers but you must be registered with them to be eligible.
To register call intake on 1300 698 624 or email: hello@vmch.com.au
For more information about these and other VMCH events,
visit: https://vmch.com.au/support-for-carers/events/
EACH Statewide Carer Support Services
https://www.each.com.au/service/family-relationship-support-for-carers/
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.
Association for Children with a Disability
Resources:
https://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/
Orange Door
The Orange Door is available in Ballarat to support families experiencing family violence and families who need support with the care and wellbeing of children and young people.
The Orange Door is a free and you do not need a referral to access the services available.
The Orange Door is accessible in person between the hours of 9am to 5pm Monday through to Friday.
21 Armstrong Street North, Ballarat Central
Phone: 1800 219 819
Carer Card Discounts
Victorian Carer Card holders can access a range of discounts on gift cards including:
- Carer Card holders get free entry into Legoland Discovery Centre, and Sealife Melbourne.
- Carer card holders also get concession entry into all four Zoos Victoriasites and at Museums Victoria.
- 5% discount on Everyday WISH gift cards, valid at Big W, Woolworths and EG Ampol fuel outlets.
- 5% discount on Metcash Shop Local gift cards, valid at IGA, Mitre 10, Home Hardware, Total Tools and Thrifty Link.
- Up to 5% off e-gift cards for stores including JB Hi-Fi, Myer, Priceline and more.
- New riders get 50% off (up to $15 per ride) on their first 5 rides with Uber and existing riders get 5% off (up to $5) all Uber trips ongoing! Plus, new Uber Eats users get $20 off their first order that’s over $30. Fees, terms and conditions apply. Learn more about the Uber and Uber Eats discounts
- 10% off prescription glasses at OPSM
- 5% off electric bikes and scooters at E-Ride Solutions
- 5% off Shop Local Gift Cards that can be used at IGA, Cellarbrations and Mitre 10
- 4 cents off petrol at United Service stations, but you need to register
- A whopping 20% off at all Salvos stores. Just show your card at the checkout
It’s worth noting that the information on these discounts was correct as of November 2025, and things may change. Learn more about the discounts and benefits available for Victorian Carer Card holders.
young carers supports
Little Dreamers – Sibling supports
Young Carer organisation, working with young people who provide unpaid care for a family member with a disability, illness or addiction across a range of direct support programs, these programs can be found here: www.littledreamers.org.au/programs/ A link for the application for support can be found at www.dreamershub.com.au
Carer Gateway Young Carer Supports
Carer Gateway can provide a range of supports to unpaid carers (including siblings as young carers). Call to register: 1800 422 737 8am to 6pm weekdays www.carergateway.gov.au
Young Carer Network
https://youngcarersnetwork.com.au/
Young Carer Network
https://youngcarersnetwork.com.au/
The Young Carers Network (YCN) is a nationally coordinated resource to raise young carer awareness, provide information, and direct young carers to appropriate pathways for support.
They also offer the Young Carer Bursary each year: https://youngcarersnetwork.com.au/bursary/young-carer-bursary/
Siblings Australia – Advocacy for school-aged siblings
So that we can better advocate for young siblings, Siblings Australia would like to hear from school-aged children about their experience of being a sibling of a person with disability, chronic illness, or mental health condition. If you’ve got kids in school, it would be great if you could encourage them to answer some questions for us. We are not collecting any identifiable data about children through this process.
We think it’s really important to be able to tell teachers and educators about how this experience might impact on schooling. So we’ve created a survey to find out more from families who are engaged in our services, you can access the survey HERE: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/6KG3L8S .
Completing the survey should only take a few minutes, and will really help us to understand what is needed when developing our supports.
School holiday activities
50 Cheap and Fun Inclusive School Holiday Activities for Kids
This list includes 50 cheap and fun activities for kids that families can enjoy at home or nearby. Many of these activities are also suitable for children with disability or autism, with flexible, low sensory options that allow kids to explore at their own pace. https://mycarespace.com.au/resources/50-fun-and-cheap-things-to-do-in-the-school-holidays
Ballarat Easter Extravaganza Market – A Hoppin’ Good Time!
Hop on over for a fun-filled Easter market perfect for the whole family!
Date: GOOD FRIDAY 3rd April, 2026
Time: 2:00pm – 7:00pm
Location: Ballarat City Oval
Entry: Adults 16+ $3, kids free!
What to Expect:
Over 150 market stalls featuring handmade, unique, and pre-loved goods
Delicious food vendors and gourmet goodies
Kids’ free activities and more!
Ballarat’s Easter Display
The Easter Bunny has a special delivery for Ballarat this autumn.
A colourful display of giant Easter eggs, bunnies and neon lights will pop up in the Sturt Street Gardens.
This Insta-worthy activation will see the return of 18 larger-than-life eggs painted by Rebecca Warr, Easter themed neon installations by acclaimed visual artist Carla O’Brien, five gold and two Easter Bunnies.
https://www.visitballarat.com.au/stories/whats-on-in-ballarat-this-april-school-holidays
Ballarat Libraries Autumn School Holiday Program
From hands-on craft to a Pop-Up Museum and much more, there’s something for everyone at Ballarat Libraries these school holidays. All sessions for children under 12 are designed to be co-learning activities where parents and carers participate as core support for their child. Children under the age of 12 cannot be left unattended.
You can read the program online here: https://ballaratlib.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Autumn-2026-SHP-Web.pdf
Book activities here: https://collections.humanitix.com/school-holiday-program
Ballarat Municipal Observatory and Museum
Cosmic Eggstravaganza: A Family Easter Event
April 4 @ 14:30 – 16:30
Ballarat Observatory 439 Cobden St, Mount Pleasant
Hop into some Easter fun at our Cosmic Eggstravaganza: A program of fun awaits: Easter Egg Hunt, Easter-Themed Astronomy talk for children and more.
https://ballaratobservatory.org.au/event/cosmic-eggstravaganza-2026/
Easter Astronomy
April 4 @ 19:30 – 21:30
Ballarat Observatory 439 Cobden St, Mount Pleasant
Hop into some Easter Astronomy. Your evening starts off with a tour of the historic Ballarat observatory while some light remains. while awaiting nightfall learn about how the date of Easter is linked to the sky and about easter themed Celestial objects.
https://ballaratobservatory.org.au/event/easter-astronomy/
Ballarat Aquatic and Leisure Centre
The BALC School Holiday Program is full of activities to keep your kids busy during the holidays!
Our Easter School Holiday Program will run from 13 – 17 April 2026.
You can choose swimming, gymnastics (range of levels), rock wall, Ninja and/or balance play.
View the program here: https://www.ballarataquaticcentre.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/school-holiday-program-brochure-april-2026.pdf
Bookings are open here: https://www.ballarataquaticcentre.com/visit/schoolholiday/
Alice In Wonderland at Kryal Castle
By popular demand, Kryal Castle’s Alice in Wonderland program returns just in time for Easter Holidays and all Wonderland’s most magical characters will be here – including The Mad Hatter, The Queen of Hearts, the White Rabbit and of course, Alice herself. https://www.visitballarat.com.au/whats-on/alice-in-wonderland
Zoos Victoria – Kids visit free
Zoos Victoria is pleased to advise that children under 16 years of age receive free admission to Healesville Sanctuary, Kyabram Fauna Park, Melbourne Zoo and Werribee Open Range Zoo on:
- Weekends
- Victorian Public holidays
- Victorian Government school holidays.
Please note, children under 16 must be accompanied/supervised by an adult. If they are not accompanied by an adult, they will be refused entry.
