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 The NDIS Changes Information Session. 7pm – 8.30pm Tuesday 12th May at Pinarc in Lucas.  Places are limited so please RSVP to rpaton@pinarc.org.au .
  • 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 1pm Monday 4th May at The Well 410 York Street, Ballarat East 
    RSVP to ballaratautismey@gmail.com  or rpaton@pinarc.org.au
  • Ballarat Autism Parent Connection meets for coffee at the Robin Hood Hotel for social connection and information sharing. The next meeting is 30am Monday 18th May. Guest Speaker: Leearnee Jones from Travellers Aid will speak to the group about how they can provide assistance for people with autism and their families.
  • Bacchus Marsh Disability Parent Connection meet for social dinners and information sessions monthly on Monday evenings during school terms. The next session is Monday 25th May for the NDIS Changes Information Session. 7pm – 8.30pm at Darley Neighbourhood House. Contact rpaton@pinarc.org.au for more information.
  • Ballarat Down Syndrome Parent Connection group meets regularly for social connection and information sharing. Our next Down Syndrome Family Connections morning tea will be on Monday 4th May 2026 at the Ballarat Yacht Club from 10:30am. RSVP to Wendy or rpaton@pinarc.org.au for more information.
  • Daylesford Disability Parent Connection Group. Next meeting TBC.
  • 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

Pinarc Parent Support – NDIS Changes Information Sessions
Presented by Latrobe Community Health Services LAC service.
These information sessions will cover:

  • Support Needs Assessments
    – What they are,
    – how they will work,
    – how parent carers can prepare,
    – Parent/carers rights
  • The role of the LAC and how they can help.
  • How the introduction of “Thriving kids” will or won’t affect families currently on the NDIS
  • Any other new changes to the NDIS since last June

Session times and locations
Ballarat:  Tuesday 12th May,  7pm – 8.30pm
Pinarc Alfredton, 1828 Sturt St.
Bacchus Marsh:   Monday 25th May,  7pm – 8.30pm
Darley Neighbourhood House, 33-35 Jonathan Dr, Darley
Places are limited for registration is essential. Email rpaton@pinarc.org.au

Ballarat Carers Lunch & Mingle

Carers Victoria invites you to attend our free carer lunch event for some well-deserved timeout and an opportunity to connect with other carers.
Location: Kryal Castle, 121 Forbes Rd, Leigh Creek VIC 3352
Time:       Wednesday, 17 June 2026,  12pm-2pm
This event held within the beautiful Kryal Castle, is about giving carers an opportunity to take a moment, meet other carers within the local area and share stories over a delicious meal.
Some Medieval entertainment will have you on your feet laughing and making new connections.
After lunch, why not stay a bit longer and enjoy all the Castle grounds has to offer.
This event is designed for carers who live in Ballarat and surrounding areas.
Please note Event is free, however registration is essential.
https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/ballarat-carers-lunch-mingle-tickets-1987802470700

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

Daytime Dance Parties 

Location: Victoria Bowling Club, Ballarat (Ongoing)
Entry: $15
Time: 4.30pm – 6.30pm Friday 22nd May
Atmosphere: Inclusive, fun, and welcoming to all, including a dedicated low sensory zone.
Whether you are an individual dancer, a support worker, or a coordinator looking for a great community activity for your clients, we would love to see you on the floor.
Party people must be accompanied by a support worker or guardian who get in for free.
Secure your spot and request a song for the DJ to play when booking your tickets.  Book here: https://www.flowtndis.com.au/party

Youth Disability Advocacy Service – paid consultation

YDAS are seeking Disabled young people in Victoria who are interested in sharing their thoughts about what issues are important to you, and what the Victorian Government can do to address those issues.  Your contributions will be shared with the Vic Government to help create the next Victorian State Disability Plan (2027–2031).
You can fill in this form if you:

  • Are aged 12 to 25 years old. (If you will turn 26 before May 2026, you are too old for this program)
  • Live in Victoria.
  • Are a disabled person. You do not need a diagnosis. You just need to identify as:
    • Having a disability
    • Having a health condition or chronic illness
    • Neurodivergent
    • Deaf, deaf or hard of hearing
    • Having lived experience of mental health issues or mental illness
    • Blind or have low vision

How you can be involved:
There are 3 options for how you can be involved:

  • Group workshop – Online on Zoom Thursday 28th May 4pm to 6pm (2 hours)
    • People: 4x YDAS staff and 12 disabled young people
    • Payment: $100 honorarium if you attend the full workshop
  • Interview – Online on Zoom Thursday 4th June
    • 30 minute interview, taking place between 3pm to 6pm. Exact time to be confirmed.
    • People: 2x YDAS staff and yourself.
    • Payment: $25 honorarium for completing the interview.
  • Survey – opens 22nd May, closes on 22nd June (4 weeks to complete it)
    • Approximately 30 minutes to complete in your own time.
    • No payment.

If you are interested, please complete this Expression of Interest form: https://youthdisabilityadvocacyservice.snapforms.com.au/form/dffh-disability-action-plan-consultation.  The form closes on Sunday 17th May at 11:55pm.

Weekly Games Night at Kocoda HQ

A structured social program to help young people build confidence and friendships.  Small groups and consistent staff.
Weekly on Fridays 4:00pm – 6:00pm

  • Multiplayer console gaming (Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, F1 Simulator, VR headset)
    Mario Kart team challenges
  • Co-op and group based games
  • Chillout options (boardgames and quieter activities)
  • Structured support throughout the session.

Contact Kocoda Disability Support to find out more and register your interest. https://kocodasupport.com/

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).

 

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:

  1. Register as a young carer with Carer Gateway for free: Call 1800 422 737 if you haven’t already.
  2. 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/

Forge and Quest (formerly 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, Forge and Quest 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: Website: www.forgeandquest.com   Email: admin@forgeandquest.com

People Outdoors Upcoming Camps
Calendar of camps April – September 2026

https://www.peopleoutdoors.org.au/download_file/view/744/429

 

Information sessions, courses and webinars

Kindergarten Registration Drop-In Support:

Have questions about Kindergarten? Need help registering your child?
Want to change your kindergarten preferences or update your details?
The Kindergarten Registration Officer will be at the following drop-in locations. No booking needed.
Thursday 30 April Ballarat Library, 178 Doveton Street North, Ballarat 9.30am – 1.30pm
Monday 4 May Sebastopol Library, 183 Albert Street, Sebastopol 9.30am – 2.30pm
Tuesday 5 May Lucas Community Hub, 17 Coltman Plaza, Lucas CALD Officer onsite 9.30am – 12.00pm
Thursday 7 May Ballarat Library, 178 Doveton Street North, Ballarat 9.30am – 1.30pm
Friday 8 May Djila-tjarriu Community Hub, 18 Donegal Drive, Alfredton CALD Officer onsite 9.30am – 2.00pm

Amaze – Autism Connect  Q&A Session

Presented by Grampians Heath Carer Support Service and Carer Gateway
Amaze is the home of Autism Connect – Australia’s national autism information and advice helpline.
Amaze builds autism understanding in the community, influences policy change for Autistic people and their families/supporters, and provides independent, credible information and resources to individuals, families, professionals, government and the wider community.
Date: Thursday, 7th May 2026
Time: 1:30pm – 2:45pm
Location: Online (MS Teams)
Cost: Free*
RSVP by Tuesday, 5th May 2026  by phone 03 5333 7104 or email: carers@gh.org.au

Support for Parents of Neurodivergent Children

This is a six-week, semi-facilitated peer support group designed for parents and primary carers of neurodivergent children. The group offers a supportive space for connection, shared experiences, and practical discussion.
When: Fridays, 10:30am – 12:00pm
Dates: Term Two, from Friday 1st May to Friday 5th June
Where: The Centre for Perinatal Health & Parenting. 33 Masada Blvd, Winter Valley.
Call Annette or Jo on 5324 2900 and register your interest

ACD Workshop – Teens and Beyond

A three-part online workshop series for families of young people aged 13+.

Each workshop covers a different topic over three weeks. All workshops are led by facilitators who are parents of children with disability. Watch this short video to learn more.

This workshop looks at:

  • Financial support
  • School and post-school options
  • Future planning
  • Wellbeing: friendships, communication, behaviour support and good mental health

Workshop dates:  A series of three consecutive sessions over three weeks:

  • Monday 4, 11 & 18 May at 7.00 pm
  • Tuesday 5, 12 & 19 May at 7.00 pm
  • Wednesday 6, 13 & 20 May at 10.00 am

https://collections.humanitix.com/teens-and-beyond

Can’t Face School Online Support Group

When: 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 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

Transition to High School Group – Pinarc

High school transition can be a stressful time for both child and family. This program will help provide additional support and information to both children and parents to create an environment for a successful High School transition. This program will utilise group and solo activities in various key areas plus additional home activities for both the child and parent each week. Each week the group will focus on developing different skills.
To participate, children need to be:
• Aged 11-13 years.
• Transitioning to High school in 2027
• Able to identify which school they will be attending.
• Able to communicate in their own way with peers.
Dates: Thursday 13th August – 26th November 2026 (2-week break September school holidays)
Times: 4-5 pm
Venue: Pinarc Disability Support, 1828 Sturt Street, Alfredton
Cost: The maximum cost of the program is $1,563.56. This may vary depending on confirmed group numbers. You will be committed for the duration of the group. A report with strategies can be provided at the end.

Working Out Dads – Workshop by ACD

Working Out Dads is a free six‑week online program for dads raising children with disability, aged 0-9. It’s a dads‑only space to connect and talk honestly, with a unique mix of peer support and wellbeing. Each week includes time with other dads, plus simple, practical movement tips from a personal trainer, focused on staying active in everyday life.
The dads say it best:
“I was able to talk openly about the worries and concerns I have for my son, knowing the other dads would truly understand.”
“It didn’t take long to realise we’re all in the same boat.”
“The program really highlighted for me how important peer connection is. Having that support not only benefits our mental health and well-being, but it also helps us show up as better dads and partners.”
“It was a space for honest conversations I’ve found difficult to have with my own mates.”
The next group kicks off on May 12. Take the leap and join us.
Register here: https://collections.humanitix.com/working-out-dads-113202

DSV Events for dads and male carers of children with Down syndrome.

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
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.
The dads and male carers can register for this event at:
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.

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

June 2026
https://ylb2026.vfairs.com/en/agenda-page

new services for families

Medicare support for speech-sound difficulties

Recent changes mean Medicare now helps cover the cost of speech therapy for children and young people who stutter or have speech-sound difficulties (including articulation disorder, phonological disorder, childhood apraxia of speech, dysarthria), and for those with cleft lip and/or palate.

Children and young people under 25 may be able to get Medicare rebates for

  • Speech assessments (up to 8 sessions)
  • Ongoing speech therapy (up to 20 sessions)

Helpful tips for families

  • A referral is required from a GP, specialist or consultant physician
  • Medicare provides a rebate, so some families may still have a gap fee depending on the provider
  • Not all speech pathologists offer Medicare rebated sessions, so ask first
  • Early support can make a real difference, but it’s never too late to seek help
  • NDIS and Medicare cannot be used for the same session

Celebrating inclusive Auslan storytelling

The ABC has dropped Auslan accessible versions of some of Australia’s favourite preschool shows on ABC iView.  Children can enjoy Auslan versions of popular Bluey episodes, plus shows like Gardening Australia Jr, Ginger and the Vegesaurs, Kangaroo Beach, Fizzy & Suds and Knee High Spies, with even more preschool titles on the way.

NDIS updates for families

ACD fact sheets on NDIS changes

Updated 22/04/2026

Here is the latest information to support your child and family.

 

research and feedback opportunities

State Disability Plan and the Victorian Autism Plan 2027 – 2031 | Engage Victoria

Consultation on the next State Disability Plan and the next Victorian Autism Plan will happen at the same time. This way, the new autism plan will line up with the new State Disability Plan.

The Victorian Government wants to hear from people with disability, Autistic people, families, carers and friends.  The next plans will set out priorities and actions to make Victoria a more inclusive, accessible, and fair place for all.

The government wants to hear about:

  • what is working well and what could be improved
  • priorities for the future
  • ideas for the next plans.

The Victorian Government will also work with the disability community to respond to national disability reforms. This includes changes to the National Disability Insurance Scheme, and the delivery of foundational supports such as Thriving Kids.

How to participate

  • You can take part in an in-person or online forum
  • Complete an online survey
  • Share feedback and ideas on Engage Victoria
  • Send us an email with a voice or video recording to disabilityplan@dffh.vic.gov.au.
  • Mail a picture, document or recording with your ideas to Office for Disability, 50 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne, Victoria, 3000.

For more information visit : https://engage.vic.gov.au/disabilityplan

Central Highlands Regional Advocacy Group (CHRAG)

https://events.humanitix.com/central-highlands-regional-advocacy-group-meeting-2

The Central Highlands Regional Advocacy Group (CHRAG) is a long-standing, collaborative network championing disability advocacy across the Central Highlands region. Led by Grampians disAbility Advocacy, CHRAG brings together local service providers, people with lived experience of disability, carers, and community organisations to address key advocacy issues.

Spanning Ararat, Ballarat, Daylesford and surrounding areas, CHRAG plays a vital role in amplifying local voices and driving systemic change. The group meets regularly to identify emerging concerns, share insights, and advocate on matters ranging from access and inclusion to broader government policy reform.

Join us for the second CHRAG meeting of the year

When: Friday 15 May 2026

Time: 1:30pm – 3:00pm (with networking to follow)
Where: Trench Room, Level 1, Ballarat Town Hall

Online attendance is also available via Microsoft Teams!

This meeting is a great opportunity for new and existing members to connect, learn more about CHRAG’s work, and contribute to discussions on upcoming advocacy priorities. All are welcome!

Any questions, please contact Grampians disAbility Advocacy at: admin@grampiansadvocacy.org.au or 1800 552 272  

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

City of Ballarat new webpage –
Information and supports for carers of people with disability and or older adults

This new webpage include information about local, state and national services including:

  • Support for carers
  • Victorian Carer Card
  • Companion Card
  • Carer Services
  • Victorian Carer Peak Bodies

Visit the webpage here:  https://www.ballarat.vic.gov.au/community/disability-access-and-inclusion/information-and-supports-carers-people-disability-and-or

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/

Variety Victoria Individual Grant

Variety assist with the purchase of mobility equipment, communication devices, medical and assistance dogs, and essential medical and health equipment to support Victorian children with a medically diagnosed chronic illness or disability.

Please read the Individual Grant Guidelines before completing your application.

https://variety-thechildrenscharityofvicto.my.salesforce-sites.com/vvgranting/apex/VisualAntidote__HostedFastForm?h=AOT04

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

 

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:

  • 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

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.

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