NDCO Newsletter Summer 2019

Welcome to the Summer edition of the NDCO program newsletter for region 14 Southern Melbourne. If you would like information about special projects, networks and professional development opportunities in relation to education & employment for people with disability please contact the NDCO program. 
Sally Bailey, National Disability Coordination Officer T (03) 9784 0400 M 0439 897 027 
E sally.bailey@skillsplus.com.au  W www.ndcovictoria.net.au

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Need for Disability Specific Networks in Southern Melbourne

The last 12 months have seen considerable changes in the disability sector through Southern Melbourne.  In particular, the role out of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and changes to the Disability Employment Service (DES) contract mean that opportunities for young people with disability have changed.  The end of last year many professionals in the sector focused on getting people with disability registered with their pathways services and learning about new programs such as the NDIS School Leavers Employment Supports.

This year the NDCO program for Southern Melbourne is reviewing the need for disability focused networks with the aim of increasing opportunities for young people with disability to engage in education and employment pathways in the Bayside, Frankston and  Morington Peninsula areas.  These networks would be focused on the following;

• Coordinating communication about careers opportunities, best practice and pathways for people with disability.
• Improving information and communication about services, programs and opportunities in the region.
• Providing opportunities to discuss partnerships and activities with school careers programs.
• Providing a forum for networking and group discussion to identify gaps and develop regional responses and solutions.

We would love to have your feedback on what works for you!

Please take out 5 minute survey

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/GBJ72T5

Please note that the South East Disability Inclusion Network (SEDIN) is operating in in the Greater Dandenong Casey and Cardinia areas.

For more information please go to http://www.ndcovictoria.net.au/south-eastern-disability-inclusion-network

Or contact

Sally Bailey , National Disability Coordination Officer, Southern Melbourne

T (03) 9784 0400 M 0439 897 027

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The NDCO Pathways Resource Guide – Time for updates! 

The NDCO Pathways Resource Guide is due for a big update so if you have time please go to the link and download the guide to see if your organisation is accurately represented. We are going to add NDIS funded supports in the following categories;

• Disability Employment Services
• Group Training Organisations
• NDIS  registered provider - Assistance to Access and Maintain Employment or higher education [Assist Access/Maintain Employ]
• NDIS registered provider - Development of Daily Living and Life Skills [Development-Life Skills]
• NDIS registered provider - Supported Employment Assistance in specialized supported employment/ADE
• Australian Government Dept. of Jobs and Small Business program provider
• Apprenticeship Support

http://www.ndcovictoria.net.au/region-14#directories

Getting to work: Victorian public sector disability employment action plan 2018–2025

More Victorians living with disability will be supported to create a meaningful career in the public sector, as part of the state’s first disability employment action plan.

The plan includes attraction, recruitment, retention and progression strategies for people with disability, as well as ways to support prospective and existing employees with disability and their managers.

The plan is available for download in a variety of formats.

https://vpsc.vic.gov.au/resources/disability-employment-action-plan/

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More than $19 million to support the work of the NDIS Participant Employment Taskforce

Media release from the Assistant Minister Media release from the Minister   

25 December 2018

The Liberal-National Government is backing the work of its newly established National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) Participant Employment Taskforce with $19.9 million of grants for projects to boost employment for Australians with a disability.

Minister for Families and Social Services, Paul Fletcher, and Assistant Minister for Social Services, Housing and Disability Services, Sarah Henderson; have announced that an open, competitive grant process will launch early in 2019.

“The Economic Participation grants will back innovative proposals that build the capacity of people with disability to participate in work,” Mr Fletcher said. “They will also support employers to create opportunities for people with disability”

For more go to:

https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/1166-more-19-million-support-work-ndis-participant-employment-taskforce

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Australian Network on Disability - PACE Mentoring Program Autumn 2019

The Australian Network on Disability are delighted to inform you that applications for the PACE Mentoring Program Autumn 2019 are now open! It would be great if we could get your assistance and expertise on how best to promote this program out to eligible jobseekers with disability. Please find further details about PACE Mentoring below.

Positive Action towards Career Engagement (PACE Mentoring) connects jobseekers with disability with mentors from leading Australian businesses. It gives the mentees an opportunity to develop their skills and confidence in a workplace setting. Previous mentors have come from organisations such as, ANZ Bank, Victoria Police, Bupa, Cummins, Australian Government Departments etc. Mentees meet their mentors at their mentors workplace, and work on activities designed to increase employability skills.

How it works

Mentees will be paired with an experienced professional who they will meet with six to eight times within a four-month period between May to August. The meetings last between one and two hours. Mentees can discuss their career goals and aspirations, and get help to develop a plan for their personal and professional development.

Their mentor will help them identity and reach their career development goals and build their confidence in a workplace environment.

Am I eligible?

Be over 18 years of age

Identify as having any type of disability

How do I apply?

Read the details on our information pages and complete our online application form by March 2019. Early applications are recommended. Applications are open now!

Who do I contact if I have more questions?

Contact by email applications@and.org.au

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The NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission

The NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission is a new independent agency established to improve the quality and safety of NDIS supports and services.

We will regulate the NDIS market, provide national consistency, promote safety and quality services, resolve problems and identify areas for improvement.

You can contact us from:

1 July 2018: New South Wales and South Australia

1 July 2019: Victoria, Queensland, Tasmania, the Australian Capital Territory and the Northern Territory

1 July 2020: Western Australia

Until we start operating in your area, your current state or territory requirements for quality and safeguards will continue to apply. You can find out more by checking the map.

https://www.ndiscommission.gov.au/about/start-dates

Links for Victoria

Disability Services Commissioner, Telephone: 1800 677 342

Email: complaints@odsc.vic.gov.au, Website: odsc.vic.gov.au

Ombudsman Victoria, Telephone: 1800 806 314

Website: ombudsman.vic.gov.au

Consumer Affairs Victoria, Telephone: 1300 55 81 81

Website: consumer.vic.gov.au

Commonwealth Ombudsman, Telephone: 1300 362 072

Email: ombudsman@ombudsman.gov.au

Website: ombudsman.gov.au

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Policy and Reports

MHA report on the NDIS approach to psychosocial disability

Mental Health Australia (MHA) has released a report on the existing NDIS approach to psychosocial disability. This report came from a lot of work done by the NDIA and MHA hearing from participants with a psychosocial disability about how the NDIS can be improved. The report can be downloaded at:

https://mhaustralia.org/our-projects/ndis-psychosocial-pathway-project

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Inquiry into Career Advice Activities in Victorian Schools

The Victorian Inquiry into Career Advice Activities in Victorian Schools was released in August 2018. Career development  involves exposing students to a wide range of occupations before they have to make any binding decisions and gradually building their capacity to make effective career decisions, a skill which they will need to draw on throughout their life as their interests and circumstances change. We may not be able to predict the jobs of the future, but we are able to impart to students the skills and confidence they need to successfully manage their career.

This Inquiry considered how well Victorian schools are preparing students to navigate the world of work and where they could improve.

https://www.parliament.vic.gov.au/925-eejsc/inquiry-into-career-advice-activities-in-victorian-schools

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Timeline of Australian VET policy initiatives 1998-2017

Australia's vocational education and training (VET) system has transformed over the past 20 years in response to changing economic and societal needs. This timeline helps understand the scale of change and the individual policies, programs or initiatives that have shaped VET at both the national and state and territory level. The comprehensive resource also includes economic events that may have influenced enrolments and completions of VET courses, apprenticeships and traineeships.

https://www.voced.edu.au/vet-knowledge-bank-timeline-australian-vet-policy-initiatives-1998-2017?utm_source=NCVER&utm_medium=tweets&utm_campaign=VKB

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Tools and Resources

Community Resource Unit fact sheets

The Community Resource Unit Ltd. (CRU) engage with a broad range of people in a movement for change so that people with disability will be welcomed and appreciated as they take their place in their communities.

As well as influencing and equipping others to lead positive change, their purpose is to inspire and encourage individuals and organisations to challenge ideas and practices that limit the lives of people with a disability.

For fact sheets on inclusive education and employment go to

http://cru.org.au/resources-and-publications/fact-sheets/

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Borderline personality Disorder Webinar Series

The Mental Health Professionals’ Network (MHPN) has produced a series of informative webinars on Borderline personality Disorder.

BPD Webinar Series

Webinar 1 - What is Borderline Personality Disorder?
Webinar 2 - Treatment principles for people living with Borderline Personality Disorder
Webinar 3 - Evidence based treatments for people living with Borderline Personality Disorder
Webinar 4 - Borderline personality disorder in youth and early intervention

MHPN Network Search

Find networks in your local area

MHPN Webinar Library

Watch past webinars

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Quantum

Quantum provides products and services to people with a print disability (low vision, blindness or a learning difficulty). Quantum provides information about products and services that assist people with vision loss or learning difficulties to live life to the fullest. Quantum was the founding sponsor of the Macular Disease Foundation and are an approved supplier to the Department of Veterans Affairs and the NDIS. Quantum collaborate closely with eye care professionals (ophthalmology and optometry practices) and vision support agencies such as Vision Australia, Guide Dogs, and the Royal Society for the Blind. Go to the Quantum website for information about products services, newsletters and events.

https://www.quantumrlv.com.au/

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National Centre for Student Equity in Higher Education (NCSEHE)

Funded by the Australian Government Department of Education and Training the NCSEHE’s purpose is to inform public policy design and implementation, and institutional practice, in order to improve higher education participation and success for marginalised and disadvantaged people.

The Centre’s objectives are:

• to be at the centre of public policy dialogue about equity in higher education; and
• to assist in ‘closing the loop’ between equity policy, research and practice by:
• supporting and informing evaluation of current equity practice with a particular focus on identifying good practice
• identifying innovative approaches to equity through existing research and the development of a forward research program to fill gaps in knowledge
• translating these learnings into practical advice for decision makers and practitioners alike.

Whilst the Centre’s focus is equity in higher education, the work of the Centre is not limited to the issue of low SES participation; rather it focuses on equity issues as they relate to a range of marginalised and/or disadvantaged groups in Australia.

Headed by Professor Sue Trinidad, the Centre’s team comprises a group of highly qualified and passionate people with diverse backgrounds, competencies, and experiences.

To find out more go to https://www.ncsehe.edu.au/

Southern Melbourne NDCO Newsletter

Spring Edition 2018

Welcome to the Spring edition 2018 of the NDCO Program Newsletter for region 14 Southern Melbourne. If you would like further information about special projects, networks and professional development opportunities in relation to education & employment for people with disability please contact the NDCO program. 
Sally Bailey, National Disability Coordination Officer

T (03) 9784 0400 M 0439 897 027 
E sally.bailey@skillsplus.com.au 

W  www.ndcovictoria.net.au/region-14

Please like our facebook page https://www.facebook.com/NDCO14/
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NDCO Inclusive Learning and Pathways Conference

SAVE THE DATE: Friday 23 November 2018

Keynote Presenter Sarah Barton

Award winning producer of ‘Defiant lives’ a documentary that explores the history of the Disability Rights Movement https://defiantlives.com/

Target: Professionals with an interest in inclusive education and employment for people with complex learning needs and disability aged 15 years and over. 
Venue: Monash University Peninsula, Campus McMahons Rd, Frankston

Workshop Streams

Inclusive Educational Practice
Inclusive Employment Pathways

Register your interest here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/NDCOILC

For more information go to
or contact Sally Bailey on (03) 9784 0400 or email sally.bailey@skillsplus.com.au

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Policy, Research and Reports

Southern Melbourne NDCO Newsletter

Winter Edition 2018

Welcome to the winter edition 2018 of the NDCO Program Newsletter for region 14 Southern Melbourne. If you would like further information about special projects, networks and professional development opportunities in relation to education & employment for people with disability please contact the NDCO program. 
Sally Bailey, National Disability Coordination Officer

T (03) 9784 0400 M 0439 897 027 
E sally.bailey@skillsplus.com.au 

W  www.ndcovictoria.net.au/region-14

Please like our facebook page https://www.facebook.com/NDCO14/
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NDCO Inclusive Learning and Pathways Conference

SAVE THE DATE: Friday 23 November 2018

Keynote Presenter Sarah Barton

Award winning producer of ‘Defiant lives’ a documentary that explores the history of the Disability Rights Movement https://defiantlives.com/

Target: Professionals with an interest in inclusive education and employment for people with complex learning needs and disability aged 15 years and over. 
Venue: Monash University Peninsula, Campus McMahons Rd, Frankston

Workshop Streams

Inclusive Educational Practice
Inclusive Employment Pathways

Register your interest here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/NDCOILC

For more information go to
or contact Sally Bailey on (03) 9784 0400 or email sally.bailey@skillsplus.com.au

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Policy, Research and Reports

Australian Disability Clearinghouse on Education and Training (ADCET) Survey Report - 2017

This ADCET survey report was prepared in response to an online survey conducted in 2017.  ADCET was found to be highly regarded as a valuable ‘one-stop-shop’ that provides practical resources and networks, enabling people to keep up to date with the latest research, resources and best practices.  Whilst acknowledging the strength of this resource the review makes six recommendations for consideration.

https://www.adcet.edu.au/resource/9846/adcet-review-2017/

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Improving Educational Outcomes for Children with Disability in Victoria

Monash University Castan Centre for Human Rights Law June 2018

Around one in every six Victorian students’ lives, and learns, with disability.  Children with disability make immeasurable contributions to their schools and communities. However, across Australia these children continue to be left behind at school, experiencing poorer educational outcomes than their peers without disability.  For these students, their school experiences can play a pivotal role in the success, security and independence they enjoy as adults. People with disability are less likely to participate in the workforce, and enjoy a weekly median income less than half of those without disability.

This research aims to shed light on the current situation by applying a human rights analysis to the experiences of children with disability in the Victorian mainstream government school system. It highlights areas in which progress has been achieved, and those in which children with disability continue to experience discrimination and disadvantage. The report offers recommendations which are intended to strengthen the current reform process, and to assist the Department of Education and Training (the Department) to protect and fulfil the rights of children with disability.

For more information: https://www.monash.edu/law/research/centres/castancentre/public-events/events/2018/disability-in-victorian-schools-special-launch-of-a-landmark-new-report

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Making Employment a Priority

National Disability Services July 2018

Boosting the employment of people with disability is integral to the vision of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). It was central to the Productivity Commission’s original blueprint, which argued that, over time, the economic benefits of the NDIS would outweigh the costs. The NDIS cannot supply the full answer to this problem, but its potential to expand disability employment is considerable.  For full document go to:

Mental Health and NDIS

Disability Services Consulting July 2018

The NDIS does not and has never been intended to provide ‘treatment’ for a mental illness. This remains the responsibility of the health care system. Instead, the NDIS can provide funding for people with a permanent and significant psychosocial disability to improve their functional capacity. As outlined in the COAG document Principles to Determine the Responsibilities of the NDIS and other Service Systems:

“The NDIS will be responsible for ongoing psychosocial recovery supports that focus on a person’s functional ability, including those that enable people with mental illness or a psychiatric condition to undertake activities of daily living and participate in the community and in social and economic life. This may also include provision of family and carer supports to support them in their carer role, and family therapy, as they may facilitate the person’s ability to participate in the community and in social and economic life.”

a)     Support for community reintegration and day to day living […]

b)     Allied health and other therapy directly related to managing and/or reducing the impact on a person’s functional capacity of impairment/s attributable to a psychiatric condition […]

c)     Capacity building support to help the person access and maintain participation in mainstream community […]

d)     Community supports aimed at increasing a person’s ability to live independently in the community or to participate in social and economic activities […]

e)     The coordination of NDIS supports with the mental health system and other relevant service systems.

Please refer to the COAG document for the full descriptions of each of these domains.

There are resources available to help people with mental illnesses navigate the system, including https://reimagine.today/, which DSC has previously profiled. Such resources can help people understand how the NDIS criteria relates to mental illness and assist them to use NDIS language to describe their functional impairment.

 http://www.disabilityservicesconsulting.com.au/resources/mental-health-emerging-gap?utm_source=DSC+Contacts&utm_campaign=7744eab622-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2017_09_05&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_153f43591e-7744eab622-66329255

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Supported Wage System (SWS) changes

The Supported Wage System (SWS) applies to employees with disability and who have a reduced work capacity. Employees eligible for a supported wage under Schedule D of the Supported Employment Award are no longer entitled to a minimum weekly payment. The minimum supported wage is calculated differently to other awards. Employees are entitled to a percentage of the relevant minimum pay rate for their classification. The percentage applied is the higher of the employee’s assessed work capacity, rounded to the nearest whole percentage, or 12.5%.

If an employee is working a trial period while their capacity is being assessed, the employee must be paid at least 12.5% of the relevant minimum pay rate for their classification, for each hour worked within the trial period.  The fair work Ombudsman has a Pay Calculator to calculate pay rates for employees who are eligible for a supported wage.

https://www.fairwork.gov.au/pay/minimum-wages/employees-with-disability-pay-rates

The Department of Social Services gives out information and advice about who is eligible for the SWS. It also accepts applications for the SWS and can deal with disputes. Employers who are considering applying for the SWS should visit the JobAccess website

https://www.jobaccess.gov.au/disability-adjustment.

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School to Employment Transitions

Centre for Applied Disability Research

Practice and consumer guides

The following guides can be downloaded from

https://www.cadr.org.au/research-to-action-guides/school-to-employment-transitions

• Leaving school and getting a job: A guide for young people with disability who want to work
• Effective School to Employment Transitions: A guide for workers
• Effective school to employment transitions for young people with disability: Guidance for practice leaders

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Opportunities

The Enabling Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Women Leadership Program – South East 2018

Are you a woman who sees their disability as a strength?
Are you a woman who takes on life’s challenges?

The Enabling Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Women Leadership Program is an exciting free opportunity for culturally diverse, interfaith and migrant women with disabilities to come together, share their lived experiences and support each other to develop a strong sense of leadership within their community.

For more information, please contact Nadia Mattiazzo at Women with Disabilities Victoria via phone 9286 7800, or email nadia.mattiazzo@wdv.org.au

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Conferences and Workshops

At Risk Forum

SAVE THE DATE: Wednesday 22 August 2018

Time: 8.45am to 2.00pm

Venue: Woodlands Golf Club, Mordialloc

Keynote Speakers and Sessions for all professionals working with young people

P: 03 9584 8845

E: kathy.woods@bgkllen.org.au

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Community Information Session

Victoria’s government education system

Date: Monday 13 August 2018

Time: 6.30 pm - 7.30 pm (light refreshments provided)

Venue: Rangebank Primary School, 14 Lesdon Avenue, Cranbourne

The Department of Education and Training is holding an information session about Victoria’s government education system. Parents and other members of the community interested in education are invited to attend.

Speakers will include representatives from the Department of Education and Training as well as local government schools. You will have the opportunity to ask any questions you may have about the government education system and Education State initiatives in Victoria.

The Victorian Government’s $8.5 billion record investment in education is building a world class education system that gives everyone a chance to succeed in life.

In the Education State, our schools offer quality education that help students achieve excellence and prepares them to thrive.

RSVP by Friday 10 August, 2018 by calling 9340 3764 or text 0403 869 232.

Interpreters and childcare for young children at the event are available upon request when you RSVP.

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Inclusive Education Summit 2018

Deakin University Waterfront Campus

October 26-28 

The Inclusive Education Summit seeks to engage with researchers, students, education professionals and leaders, advocacy organisations, and people experiencing exclusion to consider human rights in relation to inclusive education.
Participation in the Summit is invited through both the Call for Papers and Registration, with all the Summit information available via our website www.deakin.edu.au/ties2018. Visit the website today to submit your Abstract for presentation or to take advantage of the early bird discounted registration rates. 

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Resources

The Internet of Things (IoT): Implications for Students with Disabilities

This webinar was hosted by ADCET and the Australian Tertiary Education Network on Disability (ATEND) in May, 2018. Leanne McRae, Katie Ellis and Mike Kent (Curtin University) presented on their project report The Internet of Things: Implications for Students with Disabilities. The report, published through the NCSEHE, provides an insight into both the potential risks and benefits of the IoT for tertiary students with disabilities, particularly in the current university climate where this cohort utilise mobile devices as a key resource in their learning.

https://www.adcet.edu.au/resource/9848/webinar-the-internet-of-things-iot-implications-for-students-with-disabilities/

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Southern Melbourne NDCO Newsletter

2nd Autumn Edition 2018

NDCO Inclusive Learning Conference

NDCO Newsletter Autumn 2018

Welcome to the Autumn edition of the NDCO program newsletter for region 14 Southern Melbourne. If you would like information about special projects, networks and professional development opportunities in relation to education & employment for people with disability please contact the NDCO program. 

National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)

The NDIS will become available in the Bayside Peninsula area from 1 April 2018. A person may meet the access requirements to become a participant of the NDIS up to 6 months prior to this date.  The Bayside Peninsula area covers the local government areas of Bayside, Frankston, Glen Eira, Kingston, Mornington Peninsula, Port Phillip and Stonnington. For further information about the NDIS please go to the NDIS website.   https://www.ndis.gov.au/index.html

To see if you are eligible: https://www.ndis.gov.au/ndis-access-checklist  or call 1800 800 110.

Local Area Coordinator (LAC)

The LAC Services role is to assist people with disability, their families and carers to build and pursue their goals for a good life, exercise choice and control and engage with the Scheme;  The LAC works to ensure that people with disability can be supported outside the Scheme by working with communities and mainstream services to build awareness and to become more inclusive of the range of needs and aspirations of the needs of people with disability; The LAC support participants of the Scheme to navigate and optimise their engagement with the scheme and to promote opportunities for people with disability.

To speak to the Bayside and Peninsula LAC go to;

Local Area Coordinator, Brotherhood of St Laurence

T 1300 BSL NDIS (1300 275 634) 

For further updates on local information sessions please go to

Specialisterne Australia’s Dandelion Program Victoria at its new Melbourne office

The Andrews Labor Government is helping people on the autism spectrum find sustainable work thanks to $200,000 from the Jobs Victoria Innovation Fund. The grant will enable Specialisterne, one of the first companies in the world to highlight the benefits of a neuro-diverse workforce, to work with small and medium businesses to employ 20 adults with autism.

The program will deliver job opportunities across Melbourne and regional Victoria. Specialisterne will work with La Trobe and Autism CRC, to deliver the program, ensuring high retention rates and job satisfaction.

Established in Australia in 2015, the company has set a goal of enabling 12,000 career pathways for people on the autism spectrum by 2025. As an innovative social enterprise Specialisterne provides assessment, training, education and IT consultancy services for those with autism.

Victoria is home to an estimated 3,500 social enterprises – about 25 per cent of Australia’s social enterprises – which contribute $5.2 billion in gross output to the Victorian economy.

A report from the Centre for Social Impact shows that there are at least 60,000 jobs created by social enterprises in Victoria, with more than 25 per cent of their employees coming from groups that face barriers to employment.

Policy and Research

Giving Victorians with a Disability “Every Opportunity

Minister for Housing, Disability and Ageing Martin Foley launched Every opportunity: Victorian economic participation plan for people with disability 2018-20 to mark the start of the National Open Employment Forum 2018. The plan includes 21 actions to improve work, study and business opportunities for Victorians with a disability, and maximise the benefits of the National Disability Insurance Scheme.  Employers will be empowered to support people into jobs that reflect their skills, experience and goals – using best-practice employment models.

For this article: https://www.premier.vic.gov.au/giving-victorians-with-a-disability-every-opportunity/

PwC’s Skills for Australia has released an Environmental Scan as part of the Inclusion of People with Disability in VET cross sector project

The Environmental Scan outlines the current state of inclusion for people with disability in Australia, focusing on the challenges faced in education and training, employment, and customer service contexts.Data and insights have been gathered from multiple sources, including desktop research, preliminary stakeholder consultations, review of existing data on workforce trends, Industry Skills Forecasts and existing training package components across multiple industries.

Briefing Note: Equity Student Participation in Australian Higher Education: 2011 to 2016

Briefing Note written by Paul Koshy, National Centre for Student Equity in Higher Education (NCSEHE)

Equity Student Participation in Australian Higher Education examines trends in higher education undergraduate enrolments in Australia between 2011 and 2016. This six-year period has been a time of marked change in Australian higher education, with the demand-driven system (DDS) increasing overall student numbers, while programs such as the Higher Education Participation and Partnerships Program (HEPPP) encouraged equity group participation, with their numbers increasing at a rate either proximate or greater than that seen overall.

Opportunities

I CAN Network updates

Our first 2018 online mentoring programs have begun and so far our mentees are having a wonderful time, making new friends and developing their I CAN attitude.
Our school mentoring has also commenced for the new year, and we've just released details of our 2018 camps.
Meanwhile, we're busy preparing for Humans on the Autism Spectrum this April and we'll have some surprises for you this year!

Autism & Education

More than 8 in 10 autistic students face difficulties in education

Conferences and Workshops

Free Webinar: Customised Employment - streamlining sustainable transitions

Date:   Tuesday, 27 February 2018
Time:  1.00 pm - 2.00 pm

To register: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/2242265236811842306?source=Region+14+NDCO+Webinar+Customised+Employment

NDCO Inclusive Learning Conference

Keynote Presenter Sarah Barton

Award winning producer of ‘Defiant lives’ a documentary that explores the history of the Disability Rights Movement https://defiantlives.com/

Date: Friday 1 June 2018

Target: Professionals with an interest in inclusive education and employment for people with complex learning needs and disability aged 15 years and over. 
Venue: Monash University Peninsula, Campus McMahons Rd, Frankston

Workshop Streams

• Educational Inclusion Theory and Practice
• Educational Inclusion Pathways

To purchase tickets go to:
https://ndcoinclusivelearningconference.eventbrite.com.au

Call for Presentations
Presentation proposals must be submitted by close of business Thursday 29 March 2018. 

The contact on the submission will be notified if the proposal has been accepted by Monday 16 April 2018

For more information go to

Frankston Mornington Peninsula - CAREERS EXPO

Time: 9:30am - 3:00pm

Date: Tuesday 22 May 2018

Venue: Hastings Community Hub, 1973 Frankston/Flinders Rd, Hastings

Contact: Jane Ling, FMPLLEN Frankston Mornington Peninsula Careers Expo Coordinator

Mobile: 0422 126 985

Making Choice and Control REAL - Supporting Self Advocacy’

Frankston Mornington Peninsula ‘Multi-Sectoral Community of Practice’ forum

Time: 9.30m

Date: Thursday 29 March 2018

Registration: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/making-choice-and-control-real-understanding-and-supporting-self-advocacy-tickets-43222251919

The forum is provided for agencies in the Frankston Mornington Peninsula area responding to various consumer directed care reforms, and will focus on policy, practice, skills and strategies required to support service users to develop their self-advocacy skills and decision making capacity.
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Frankston Mornington Peninsula Service Sector Orientation Forum

Time 9.30 am to 1.30 pm

Date: Thursday 15 March 2018

Registration https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/fmp-service-sector-orientation-tickets-42440772493?aff=es2

This forum is provided to ‘speed date’ a range of health and community services operating across the Frankston Mornington Peninsula to support consumers and their families. Service will include Mental Health, Alcohol and Other Drugs, Disability, Housing and Support, Family, Family Violence and Employment in addition to various other supports available across the catchment.

My apologies for the change of date however this is a great opportunity for both providers and education providers to prepare for discussions with families eligible for NDIS supports.

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2018 Australasian Mental Health and Higher Education Conference

Issues, Challenges and Ways Forward
'Building a more resilient culture within higher education and the local community'

Time: 9.00 am to 3.00 pm

Date: 6 & 7 July 2018

Venue: James Cook University

Event website
https://www.jcu.edu.au/college-of-arts-society-and-education/events/amhhec

Access Easy English

Learn Easy English 2 day writing course

Time: 9:15 am – 4:15 pm

Date: Monday 14 and Tuesday 15 May, 2018

Venue: Kingston Arts Centre, Nepean Hwy. Moorabbin

Cost: $550 + gst Morning tea and light lunch provided Parking available under the venue: enter via South Rd. Wheelchair Accessible.

Registration: https://trybooking.com/355063 (there is a .30 cent booking fee from Try Booking)

Suitable for anyone who writes information for the public, eg: communications and marketing staff; support workers, planners, therapists, disability advocates, teachers, ethics teams, survey developers, report writers, lawyers, ..........NDIS staff, Not sure if this is right for you?

Call Cathy Basterfield 0466 579 855 or email cathy@accesseasyenglish.com.au

Pathways 14 Conference

Pathways 14 Conference website was launched this month and are already calling for abstracts. 4-7 December 2018 Novotel Manly Pacific, Sydney Australia. Abstracts are now being sought for oral presentations (20 minute presentation, plus 5 minutes Q&A). Themes include Mental health, Inclusive Design, Inherent Requirements, Employment, Mental Health and Well-being, Interface between NDIS and tertiary education and Community Links. Click the link below to submit your abstract.

https://us12.campaign-archive.com/?e=&u=6503405ac4e08b3a2416ad15f&id=69728f2fff

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A workshop about the opportunities and changes the NDIS brings fro ADE’s

By Disability Services Consulting

This workshop is designed for ADE Managers and Board Members. Attendees will learn about the key changes and will be stepped through a process to review their current business models and develop successful strategic responses to the NDIS. 

Time: 9.30 am  to 3.30 pm

Date: Tuesday 27 March 2018

Venue: Central Melbourne

Cost: $625

Registration: http://www.disabilityservicesconsulting.com.au/register

Further information: admin@disabilityservicesconsulting.com.au

T: 0468 478 987

This workshop will cover:

• Changes in practice – supported employment funding under the NDIS (and the intersection with open employment)
• Working with the new approach to participant outcomes and goals
• Managing the cultural shift – a culture of higher expectations is coming
• Succeeding through enhancing employment pathways for people with disability
• Reviewing your organisation's readiness for change
• Implementing best practice in supported employment
• Analysing the range of strategic responses available to ADEs

Useful Tools

Reimagine website - Supporting people living with mental health conditions to navigate the NDISo

Communicating with deaf and hard of hearing people

By ai-media

There is often a communication barrier between people who are hearing and people who are deaf or hard of hearing. But our differences shouldn't keep us from communicating with each other. Here are a few tips on communicating with someone who is deaf or hard of hearing.

http://blog.ai-media.tv/blog/communicating-with-deaf-hard-of-hearing-people?utm_campaign=USA%20DSOs&utm_source=hs_email&utm_medium=email&utm_content=60176572&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_ghIZtp_D8IIwrL9FhW8XRI2BHFJM6jD-1Hbx78yP-9BZfrDlajVSDQuHZ9z-3ZVw0255sq_7nV3QpRT1CWiu2Drp2YEEW0uBAH7sJK5nm9-uMjMc&_hsmi=60176572

Three free captioning tools to make your videos more accessible

Ai-Media’s pick of the best three free captioning tools - Amara, YouTube and Subtitle Edit. 

Amara - http://amara.org/ Type up all the dialogue in the video that you want to caption. Amara allows you to easily skip back and forth using the keyboard, saving loads of time. Manually sync the captions to the audio using the up and down arrows. This is a really simple way of making sure your captions match your clip. Final review and edit stage.The great thing about Amara is it becomes very quick to use once you've got the hang of the keyboard controls. It also allows you to translate your videos into other languages when your captions are finished.

Use it when - You have to create captions from scratch, you want to translate your captions into other languages or your videos are hosted online.

YouTube - http://youtube.com/ YouTube has a great tool for creating captions. It’s quick and easy, but you can only use it for videos that are uploaded to YouTube. 'Transcribe and Auto-Sync' is a really neat tool that takes your typed transcript and uses their speech recognition engine to match the transcript to the audio to time your captions. It's by no means entirely accurate, but it gives you a head start and save you loads of time. Once YouTube tries to time your transcript to the audio, you can easily edit the timings using a simple visual timeline. YouTube also has an "auto-generated closed captions" feature. While these captions are far from perfect, if your clip has slow and clear speakers, you may find it quicker to edit the auto-generated captions rather than starting from scratch

Use it when - You already have a transcript for your video, your videos are uploaded on YouTube.

Subtitle Edit - http://www.nikse.dk/SubtitleEdit/ - It has editing features galore that can fix up your spelling and grammar, burn open captions into your video, import a whole bunch of fancy subtitle file types and so much more.  If you want to get a bit more serious about your captioning, this might be the program for you.

NDCO Newsletter Summer 2018

Welcome to the summer edition of the NDCO program newsletter for region 14 Southern Melbourne. If you would like information about special projects, networks and professional development opportunities in relation to education & employment for people with disability please contact the NDCO program. 

Sally Bailey, National Disability Coordination Officer T (03) 9784 0400 M 0439 897 027 
E sally.bailey@skillsplus.com.au  W www.ndcovictoria.net.au

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NDCO Program Evaluation

The Australian Government Department of Education engaged ACIL Allen Consulting (ACIL Allen) to undertake an evaluation of the NDCO program in 2016.  The scope of the evaluation was to examine the policy rationale for the NDCO Program, its operation to date, and make recommendations for the future operation of the program. This included examining the appropriateness, effectiveness and efficiency of the NDCO Program, and its intersection with the Australian Government policy and other government programs, particularly the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).

This evaluation found that the NDCO Program provides a valuable resource and range of activities at a local area that help service providers to improve education and employment outcomes for people with disability. Additionally, the NDCO Program is unique in its mandate to provide ‘whole-of-system’ expertise across different sectors. We can now confirm that the NDCO program has been funded to June 2022. 

The evaluation report and the Australian Government response to the report are available at the links below:

NDCO Evaluation Final Report

https://docs.education.gov.au/node/46076

Government Response

http://docs.education.gov.au/node/46071

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Policy Updates

Reforms to strengthen the capacity of the education system to support students with disabilities and additional needs

Victorian Government Schools are currently undertaking reforms to strengthen the capacity of the education system to support students with disabilities and additional needs, and to facilitate the full and active participation of all children and young people, through the inclusive education reform agenda. The agenda builds on the 2014 Special Needs Plan for Victorian Schools which sets out a nine-step plan to maximise outcomes for students with disabilities, and the Government's commitment to deliver recommendations from the Review of the Program for Students with Disabilities (PSD), outlined in its response: Inclusive education for all students with disabilities and additional needs.

For more information, see:

Special Needs Plan for Victorian Schools

http://www.education.vic.gov.au/about/department/Pages/specialneeds.aspx

About the Program for Students with Disabilities Review

http://www.education.vic.gov.au/about/department/Pages/about-psd-review.aspx

Implementation of the Inclusive Education Agenda reforms is underway.

More Information http://www.education.vic.gov.au/about/department/Pages/inclusive-education-for-all.aspx

Supporting Victorians Living With Autism

The Andrews Labor Government will invest more than $22 million as an immediate response to the Inquiry into Services for People with Autism Spectrum Disorder. More than $19 million has been set aside for education initiatives, including: Further training and scholarships through the Autism Teaching Institute for government teachers / Piloting a new funding model for schools to meet the needs of students with disabilities / A boost to all Victorian specialist schools to better support children with autism.

https://www.premier.vic.gov.au/supporting-victorians-living-with-autism/

Additional oversight powers to improve the safety and wellbeing of Victorians with a disability

From 16th August 2017, the Disability Services Commissioner (DSC) has been empowered with additional oversight powers to improve the safety and wellbeing of Victorians with a disability.   “These enhanced oversight powers for my office will help to strengthen safeguards for people with a disability and improve their safety and wellbeing.”

http://www.odsc.vic.gov.au/2017/08/31/introduction-commissioner-initiated-investigations/

Australian Government Plan to Improve Outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People with Disability

The Plan outlines actions the Australian Government is and can take to provide sustainable mainstream and disability services, delivered within a cultural framework for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with disability, their families and carers.

https://www.dss.gov.au/disability-and-carers/supporting-people-with-disability/resources-supporting-people-with-disability/australian-government-plan-to-improve-outcomes-for-aboriginal-and-torres-strait-islander-people-with-disability

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Research and Reports

Higher Education Participation and Partnerships Program: Seven Years On

The third case study publication in the NCSEHE series tracks the diverse activities, partnerships, positive outcomes, and sustainable impacts of Higher Education Participation and Partnerships Program (HEPPP) programs over time.

https://www.ncsehe.edu.au/higher-education-participation-and-partnerships-program-seven-years-on/

Held Back: The experiences of students with disabilities in Victorian Schools

In the interest of understanding the effect of Held back and the progress on a range of recommendations, the Commission has completed a five-year analysis. This paper includes observations on what is needed to build on existing policy gains to achieve genuine change for students with disabilities in Victorian schools.

https://www.humanrightscommission.vic.gov.au/home/our-resources-and-publications/reports/item/1602-held-back-the-experiences-of-students-with-disabilities-in-victorian-schools-analysis-paper

Intellectual Disability Mental Health Core Competency Framework

A Manual for Mental Health Professionals which outlines the necessary approaches to clinical practice when working with people with an intellectual disability and identifies the core competencies that mental health professionals require to work in this area.

https://3dn.unsw.edu.au/IDMH-CORE-COMPETENCY-FRAMEWORK

Not working: Experiences of Refugees and Migrants with JobActive

This report focuses on the barriers faced by refugees and migrants imposed by the main federal employment program, JobActive.

https://www.refugeecouncil.org.au/publications/reports/jobactive/

Recruiting participants for the Australian Longitudinal Study of School Leavers with Autism study

Alex Haschek is a Research Officer with the Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre at La Trobe University, Alex is currently recruiting participants for the Australian Longitudinal Study of School Leavers with Autism study. The research seeks assistance from young people with or without Autism and the carers/family members of young people with Autism who may be interested in participating in a survey based study. Participants are asked to complete surveys at baseline, 12 months and 24 months. Participants will receive a $30 voucher after completing the 24-month survey. If you are interested in being involved or have any additional questions, please contact SASLA@latrobe.edu.au 

The Australian Industry Skills Committee (AISC) working to improve the training outcomes of people with a disability in vocational education and training (VET)

The AISC oversees the review and development of training packages to ensure Australian workers are provided with industry-relevant skills that meet the current and future needs of employers. Recently, the AISC noted that more could be done within the VET system to better support the inclusion of students with disability and agreed to:

• adapt existing resources for use in VET institutions to raise awareness about inclusion and raise the awareness of VET practitioners about their obligations under the Disability Standards for Education
• ensure that the 2018 review of the TAE Training Package incorporates skills for trainers on consultation, reasonable adjustment and individualised planning for students with disability
• commission a cross sector project to develop a bank of units of competency on disability related issues to be used across different industries in a wide range of Training Package qualifications https://www.skillsforaustralia.com/cross-sector-projects/inclusion-of-people-with-disability-in-vet/

In the meantime if you have any questions or suggestions about the project, please contact Catherine Ryan (email: Catherine.ryan@education.gov.au ).

Investigation of the Estimates of Children’s Cognitive Abilities (ECCA) scale

The aim of this project is to develop a teacher-report questionnaire that can provide insight into a student’s cognitive ability profile important for academic achievement.

We are seeking registered teachers with the Victorian Institute of teaching who are currently teaching a school-aged child (5 to 18 years old) to participate in this research.

If you would like to participate, you can complete the survey (which should take about 10 minutes) here:  https://monash.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_d7gWg6781ZaT2x7

Participants will have the option to enter the draw for a $50 Coles/Myer gift card.

This project is being conducted by Lydia Soh, under the supervision of Dr Kate Jacobs, as part of her PhD in Educational & Developmental Psychology at Monash University. The study has ethics approval from Monash University Human Research Ethics Committee.

Recognising Ability: Business and the Employment of People with Disability

Business Council of Australia

This report summarises the results of a survey conducted by the Business Council aimed at generating baseline data and insights about disability employment practices and experiences among member companies. This is the first time the Business Council has conducted a survey on approaches to disability employment.

http://www.bca.com.au/publications/workforce-inclusion-of-people-with-disability

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Conferences and Workshops

NDCO Inclusive Learning Conference

Keynote Presenter Sarah Barton

Award winning producer of ‘Defiant lives’ a documentary that explores the history of the Disability Rights Movement https://defiantlives.com/

Date: Friday 1 June 2018

Target: Professionals with an interest in inclusive education and employment for people with complex learning needs and disability aged 15 years and over. 
Venue: Monash University Peninsula, Campus McMahons Rd, Frankston

Workshop Streams

• Educational Inclusion Theory and Practice
• Educational Inclusion Pathways

Important dates 

Call for Presentation Papers Open 15 January 2018  
Early Bird Registrations open 15 January 2018
Call for Presentation Papers Close 29 March 2018
Early Bird Registrations Close 30 April 2018
Registrations Close 7 May 2018
Registration
Participant Registration Early Bird Registrations $100, full fee $150
Stallholder Registration (Stalls will be open during lunch break) $50

To purchase tickets go to:
https://ndcoinclusivelearningconference.eventbrite.com.au

Call for Presentations
Presentation proposals must be submitted by close of business Thursday 29 March 2018. 

The contact on the submission will be notified if the proposal has been accepted by Monday 16 April 2018

For more information go to

http://www.ndcovictoria.net.au/region-14#events
or contact Sally Bailey on (03) 9784 0400 or email sally.bailey@skillsplus.com.au

Personhood, decision making and choice: Frameworks for upholding rights with people with disabilities

Time: 9.00am – 4.00pm

Date: 1 March 2018
Venue: Deakin Downtown, Level 12, Tower 2, 727 Collins Street, Melbourne VIC 3008

What does it mean to be a PERSON with a disability in Australia? How can human rights be used to inform approaches to support? What does supported decision making mean and how can it be applied in supporting choice and control? How does the idea of ‘belonging’ change the way we see community inclusion?

http://www.deakin.edu.au/about-deakin/events/personhood-decision-making-choice

Give your community a voice at the next election

Book a free information session with the Victorian Electoral Commission’s Education and Inclusion Team for your community group.

Email: education@vec.vic.gov.au Phone: 131 832
Other languages: (03) 9209 0111
Or contact us through the National Relay Service then ask for 03 8620 1100

We work with:

·         Disability groups, carers and support staff

·         Homelessness services

·         Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities

·         Migrant groups

·         Schools and youth services

·         Community services staff.

Find out more about our Education and Inclusion work

Visit: vec.vic.gov.au

Follow us: facebook.com/electionsvic

Subscribe to our http://vic.us1.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=1ff8ed13d335e443e9f148a81&id=5b86e421b1&_sm_au_=iVV5stfjTLVvZ14P

Berry Street Education Model

Berry Street’s innovative model of education that provides schools with a whole-school approach to meet the developmental strengths and needs of students, teachers, and leaders.  The Berry Street Education Model is based on classroom strategies informed by Berry Street's approaches to trauma-informed learning and the science of wellbeing.  These student-centred strategies provide teachers, leaders, and allied education professionals with the knowledge of how to foster student willingness and capacity for school achievement.

To express your interest please email Advance College (ace@advance.vic.edu.au) before Tuesday October 17 as the booking needs to be confirmed asap. For enquiries, please call Steve Wright on 0418 564 738.

Download flyer

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Resources and Tools

ADCET webinar recording: 'Enhancing self-disclosure of equity group membership'

The recording is now available from a webinar on 22 August, presented by Rita Kusevskis-Hayes, Dr Colin Clark and Matthew Wilkinson – University of New South Wales project team for the Enhancing Self-Disclosure Project. The aim of the project is to investigate why members of equity groups choose not to self-identify to their universities, either upon enrolment or later.

https://www.adcet.edu.au/resource/9686/webinar-enhancing-self-disclosure-of-equity-group-membership/

Dyslexia

The following comprehensive and informative article by Genevieve MacArthur and Anne Castles from the Department of Cognitive Science, ARC Centre of Excellence in Cognition and its Disorders at Macquarie University is highly recommended reading: 
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41539-017-0008-3

Dyslexia, Language and Learning to Read

Those who have not yet listened to her presentation would do well to access the recent lecture by Professor Maggie Snowling, President of St John's College Oxford and Professor of Psychology at the University of Oxford, who recently visited Australia and spoke at the Australian National University on ‘Dyslexia, Language and Learning to Read’. She outlined the history of the term dyslexia, and provided an overview of studies of those at risk for dyslexia. It was a fascinating and highly relevant presentation. The audio can be accessed or downloaded from the LDA website homepage.

https://www.ldaustralia.org

 Dyscalculia

Both literacy and numeracy difficulties require comprehensive support, and the latest issue of the LDA Bulletin focuses on strategies to assist students experiencing dyscalculia. Members of LDA can link directly to the articles below via the LDA website so long as they are logged in. 
https://www.ldaustralia.org/client/documents/LDA%20Bulletin%20Winter%202017.pdf

Ronit Bird, a teacher and author from England with extensive experience supporting students with dyscalculia, contributed an article on ‘The Counting Trap’, in which she describes the folly of allowing students to rely on one-by-one counting to solve arithmetic calculations.

https://www.ldaustralia.org/client/documents/The%20Counting%20Trap%20-%20Ronit%20Bird.pdf

Popular presenter Dr Paul Swan outlines difficulties that students may face in Solving Mathematical Word Problems.  Articles by Tanya Forbes, Ann Williams, Rhonda Farkota and Steve Chinn outline the extent of the problem and the dangers of not addressing the needs of students experiencing dyscalculia. 

https://www.ldaustralia.org/client/documents/Solving%20Mathematical%20Word%20Problems%20-%20Paul%20Swan.pdf

Jeremy the Dud

Jeremy the Dud is a new comedy set in a world where everyone has a disability, and those that don't are treated with the prejudice and condescending attitudes people with disabilities sometimes face in our own society. Jeremy (Nick Boshier - Soulmates, Bondi Hipsters, Trent from Punchy) is a dud, or "without specialty". He has been living in assisted government housing his whole life after the death of his parents when he was young. Now, too old for assisted living, he is off to live with his auntie and cousins, and ready to make something of himself. The only trouble is the outside world isn't very accepting of "Duds". 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qFcFpWzIQNk

NDS Workforce Essentials e-Learning Library

NDS Learn & Develop is pleased to announce a new online content package: NDS Workforce Essentials e-Learning Library ('Workforce Essentials').

Workforce Essentials provides access to a wide range of e-Learning programs, with new learning assets to be added to the library each year. We also commit to the ongoing maintenance of current programs. We aim to ensure that disability service providers have access to flexible and cost effective training in core areas

For individual access

https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/nds-workforce-essentials-e-learning-library-tickets-41301004416?_cldee=c2JhaWxleUBza2lsbHNwbHVzLmNvbS5hdQ%3d%3d&recipientid=contact-d8d5a35d3b9ee511b5d10050568e218a-f26ecfeb5edc4e92943192b2adeadb4e&esid=2ca01c15-7fe3-e711-973b-0050568e2189

For an organisational licence arrangement

https://app.yomstar.com/engagement/take/zHbtyTWARE2Xt4yPWGLdfA?lang=en_AU

Reasonable Adjustments in Online Learning

Online learning can provide many benefits to students with disability, particularly for those who may prefer not to disclose their disability, such as those with a fluctuating mental health or medical condition.  Online learning can also allow students to access teaching and learning at a time that best suits them, and for students with mobility disability, can allow them to engage with learning at a location of their choice, without the need to attend campus.

https://www.adcet.edu.au/disability-practitioner/reasonable-adjustments/online-learning/

Student Volunteer Workbook

The Hands Up! volunteer program workbook has been designed specifically for the use of young people with varying degrees of intellectual disabilities and learning differences. This workbook provides (in easy to read language and the use of visual cues) an opportunity for users to explore their interests, passions and skills whilst also participating in activities that introduce and consolidate learnings around how to source a volunteer opportunity and workplace safety.  This workbook also includes a very simple practise volunteer registration form, that when completed, may assist a young person in future, to complete real life volunteer registration forms, using the practise form as a reference.

http://www.bgkllen.org.au/resources

Webinar: Juggling feeling capable and different: A grounded theory of studying at university while living with mental ill-health

This presentation reports on a grounded theory study that used a participatory framework to explore the experiences of university students experiencing mental ill-health. While between 20 and 25% of university students are estimated to experience mental ill-health, little has been understood from the perspectives of students themselves about their experiences and the impacts of their ill-health on their studies. https://www.adcet.edu.au/resource/9710/webinar-juggling-feeling-capable-and-different-a-grounded-theory-of-studying-at-university-while-living-with-mental-ill-health/

Understood for learning and attention issues

15 non-profit organizations have joined forces to support parents of the one in five children with learning and attention issues throughout their journey. With the right support, parents can help children unlock their strengths and reach their full potential. With state-of-the-art technology, personalized resources, free daily access to experts, a secure online community, practical tips and more, Understood aims to be that support.

https://www.understood.org/en

Watch a JobAccess/ NDCO webinar - starting a conversation with employers

JobAccess recently worked with the National Disability Co-ordination Officer Program to run a webinar - “How to start the conversation: Working with employers”  the webinar offers an insight into what employers are telling JobAccess professional advisors about inclusive employment practices, and what they are looking for in candidates. 
http://www.ndco.stepscs.net.au/webinars.html

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New Programs

The Map Your Future

The Map Your Future project is designed to start building, or further develop advocacy skills in students (15 – 25 years old) - to improve participation in, and ownership over, their NDIS plans.

https://www.yacvic.org.au/ydas/map-your-future/

NEW STRIDE CAREERS PROGRAM - STEPS now being offered as a Workshop or PD

STEPS is a well-researched, comprehensive careers readiness training program.  Now available as a Workshop at your school or as a one day Professional Development.  It covers:-

• Careers and pathways options
• Interview skills
• Job search skills / employer expectations
• Resume writing / cover letters
• Preparing for work experience
• Career and industry exploration

Full workbook provided with over 40 ready to run fun and engaging activities

To find out more or make a booking call 03 8354 0829, Email: stride@whitelion.asn.au

or click https://www.whitelion.asn.au/index.php?action=fcreator&fid=82

Brotherhood Local Area Establishment team

The Brotherhood of St Laurence has commenced the establishment of Local Area Coordination Services in the Bayside Peninsula area which includes the LGA's of Port Phillip, Bayside, Glen Eira, Kingston, Stonnington, Frankston and Mornington Peninsula.  They are now available to assist people with a disability with NDIS queries or access requests. Between now and April next year new offices will be established in Windsor, Elsternwick, Cheltenham area, Frankston and Rosebud.  The establishment team is currently based at 26 Station Street, Moorabbin.  Contact 1300 BSL NDIS (1300 275 634 ext4)

Bourke and Beyond

5 services offered post compulsory for students with intellectual disability suitable for high functioning students not ready for TAFE.  Not related to FFYA, students must be 18 years and over, has been running in Blackburn for 8 years, now opening in Walker Street Dandenong on 18 January offering Cert 1 Work education and Cleaning, students can express interest in courses they would like the program to deliver, students can participate in music and culture program within the industry.
Contact Deanne Ray, Community Services Manager, Burke and Beyond, 114 Fulton Road, Blackburn South, VIC 3130
Phone: 9886 1111, Mobile: 0421 007 082, Fax: 9886 3411, Email: deanner@burkeandbeyond.org.au,  www.burkeandbeyond.org.au

RESET

RESET is a partnership program between Brotherhood of St Laurence and Monterey Secondary College, for young people from Grade 6 to 14 years of age who are at risk of or are currently disengaged from school. It aims to re-engage students back into mainstream education or alternate learning pathways through intensive therapeutic and learning support.

The program offers support for approximately 12 months through:

• small group sizes
• providing breakfast, morning tea and lunches
• providing all education resources
• dog therapy
• a school based environment – Monterey Secondary College
• a dedicated staffing group: education, youth development and wellbeing support with a youth and family therapist
• onsite and external engagement with the family

Each student has his or her own individual learning and transition plan that is designed to overcome many of the barriers known to exclude vulnerable young people from school.

In addition to their education, young people are assisted to develop interpersonal problem solving and life skills,that support a positive experience within a learning environment.

Whilst the students have their RESET personal learning and transition plans, all are enrolled at Monterey Secondary College.

The program has its own dedicated building onsite at Monterey Secondary College, in Frankston North.

Referral criteria - the young person is:

• disengaged from school: inconsistent or inactive participation
• from Frankston & Mornington Peninsula region (this can be negotiated)
• In the middle years - from grade 6 up to 14 years of age at date of referral
• Able to get to and from RESET

Please contact us for an application or for further enquiries:

RESET Program Manager -  Jane Chia Ph: 0404 093 065

chia.jane.m@edumail.vic.gov.au

Download Flyer

Have you heard about Coles quiet hour?

Grocery shopping can be a daunting experience for people who live with autism or who have family members on the spectrum. The bright lights, constant music and noise from trolley collections can be a sensory overload, but Coles supermarkets will now offer a "quiet hour" for just such customers.  From 10.30am to 11.30am on Tuesdays, store lights in 18 supermarkets in Victoria and 68 nationally will be dimmed 50 per cent, the radio will be switched off and the volumes of registers and scanners will be reduced to a minimum.
Trolley collections will halt and roll cages will be removed from the shop floor, while announcements will be made only in emergencies. Additional staff will be rostered on to support customers. The rollout comes after the supermarket chain, in partnership with Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect), ran a successful trial in August of a "quiet hour" at two Victorian stores. The Victorian supermarkets taking part range from inner city to regional areas.
https://www.coles.com.au/corporate-responsibility/our-people-community/quiethour

NDCO Newsletter Spring 2017

Welcome to the Spring edition of the NDCO program newsletter for region 14 Southern Melbourne. If you would like information about special projects, networks and professional development opportunities in relation to education & employment for people with disability please contact the NDCO program. 
Sally Bailey, National Disability Coordination Officer T (03) 9784 0400 M 0439 897 027 
E sally.bailey@skillsplus.com.au  W www.ndcovictoria.net.au

________________________________________________________________________

This Issue

Employability Curriculum

Identifying Student Requirements and Making Reasonable Adjustments    

Principles to Determine the responsibilities of the NDIS and other Service Systems         

What to look out for - Symptoms of Dyslexia

New Pathways To Leadership For Victorians With Disability           

PACE Mentoring - Achieving employment goals through mentoring: Nadine and Shirley’s Story  

University Specialist Employment Partnerships (USEP)      

Research and Reports           

Held back: The experiences of students with disabilities in Victorian schools – Analysis paper - Jul 2017

HEPPP: The Australian student equity program and institutional change: paradigm shift or business as usual? 

NCSEHE: Successful outcomes for students with disability in Australian higher education

Study underlines usefulness of lecture captions for all students      

Barriers people with an ASD face outside of university        

The Brotherhood’s response to Senate Inquiry into delivery of outcomes under the National Disability Strategy 2010–2020  

After Hours Events - Improve your Social Skills In its 5th year and ADDING A NEW LOCATION!

Conferences /Workshops/Webinars  

Supporting Students with Learning Disabilities in your Class           

EPIC Testability Academy (ETA)      

Amaze Online Training Access

Free Webinars - Learning Differences and Dyslexia in High Schools          

Strengthening Disability Advocacy Conference 2017          

Understanding the NDIS Price Guide Workshop      

Resources and Tools 

The Accessible Recruitment Guide: A Practical Resource for HR and Recruiters  

Independent Living Centres Australia           

NDIS Appeals service

New Ticket to Work Video     

What is a LAC?          

Employability Curriculum Linked to the ‘Employability DVD’

In 2017 the film ‘Employability’ was produced by Debbie-ann Johnson, from Sale & District Specialist School, Andrea McCall-Evans from NDCO and Leanne Wishart, Rural Access, Wellington Shire. Darryl Whitaker was our cameraman and donated some of the time to help edit the film. The film would not have been possible without the grant from the Commonwealth Bank; we thank them for their generous donation.

The film focusses on the eight employability skills and features a number of young people with disabilities in the workplace.

The Employability Curriculum can be downloaded from the NDCO Website PDF

The employability DVD’s can be found

Whole Film -all eight skills https://youtu.be/vGjNI16pxn8     

Communication https://youtu.be/4-vwF4DVAzM     

Teamwork https://youtu.be/SJxeSEndST0    

Problem solving https://youtu.be/kIysQa3z1Q4     

Initiative and enterprise https://youtu.be/zF5uWlKgkwI    

Planning and Organising  https://youtu.be/u1Cc98TTXcc     

Learning https://youtu.be/Pi5kqlcwvKU     

Technology https://youtu.be/Srv94j3WddY   

Self-management  www.youtube.com/watch?v=uOBoP0qoFmM

Identifying Student Requirements and Making Reasonable Adjustments

The support requirements for students with disability should be established soon after enrolment to ensure, as far as possible, that the student is able to complete the course.  Students should be advised that delay in making their requirements known may result in services not being available on time. Notification of disability is usually required if students seek reasonable adjustments to their educational program. Once the implications of the student's disability have been clarified you can discuss any adjustments to the course design or delivery that may be required.

The post-secondary institution should implement procedures to ensure that:

documentation is sought only when needed

verification processes are equitable

student privacy is protected

relevant information is subsequently disseminated (with student permission) to staff who need it; this assists in ensuring students are not required to repeat the verification process.

The full article can be found at https://www.adcet.edu.au/inclusive-teaching/working-with-students/making-reasonable-adjustments/

Principles to Determine the responsibilities of the NDIS and other Service Systems

All governments have agreed that our vision is for an inclusive Australian society that enables people with disability to fulfil their potential as equal citizens. To achieve this vision, all Australian governments, non-government organisations, business and the wider community have a role to play. The interactions of the NDIS with other service systems will reinforce the obligations of other service delivery systems to improve the lives of people with disability, in line with the National Disability Strategy. To view this document go to:

https://static1.squarespace.com/static/57c65af5cd0f68b1295663dc/t/586092084402439b0c8370ab/1482723859121/NDIS+-+Principles+to+Determine+Responsibilities+NDIS+and+Other+Service+Systems+-+Revised+27+Nov+2015+%281%29.pdf

What to look out for - Symptoms of Dyslexia

By Dyslexia Assessment and Support Services

Early identification of Specific Learning Disability (SpLD’s) is important.  Children with dyslexia are often creative and imaginative; at the same time, they also have difficulties in some or many aspects of learning. Dyslexic people have a unique brain function which makes reading, spelling and writing difficult however, they often have strengths or are gifted in other areas controlled by the right hemisphere of the brain. These talents show particularly in creative areas and design. Visual spatial awareness is often a strength and therefore they may excel in areas such as architecture, IT design, engineering.

Download Fact Sheet - What to look out for - Symptoms of Dyslexia

New Pathways To Leadership For Victorians With Disability

The Andrews Labor Government is supporting Victorians with a disability to become leaders in their local community. Minister for Housing, Disability and Ageing Martin Foley today opened applications for a range of scholarships and development opportunities, as part of the Disability Leadership Program. Run in partnership with Leadership Victoria and the Disability Leadership Institute, the program offers scholarships, mentoring, role shadowing and networking for Victorians with a disability to gain valuable leadership development and training.

The program includes scholarships for a range of leadership courses delivered by Leadership Victoria. In addition, a number of mentoring and workplace based places are available. Program participants can also apply for a 12 month membership of the national user-led Disability Leadership Institute. Increasing the voice and representation of people with a disability is a key priority of Absolutely everyone: state disability plan 2017 – 2020. For more information about the Disability Leadership Program visit: www.leadershipvictoria.org/programs/the-disability-leadership-program

PACE Mentoring - Achieving employment goals through mentoring: Nadine and Shirley’s Story

Before we commence our attraction campaign for Spring PACE Mentoring and Summer Stepping Into, we wanted to touch base and pass on one of our many participant success stories. Nadine Maroney is District Manager for ANZ bank in the ACT. Shirley Sjaputra, from Crace in the ACT was born profoundly deaf. She uses a cochlear implant and a hearing aid. Shirley describes her disability as being a barrier to employment because employers often feel unsure about what type of assistance she may require. “It can feel like a big struggle, I know that I am more than capable of doing many administration roles, but my lack of ability to hear makes companies believe that I am unable to do the job,” said Shirley. Shirley decided to participate in PACE as a way to develop her confidence in group meetings, help her to network effectively and gain experience in the financial services industry.  Read about Nadine and Shirley’s successful PACE Mentoring experience here.

https://www.and.org.au/pages/mentoring-case-study.html

University Specialist Employment Partnerships (USEP)

University Specialist Employment Partnerships (USEP) is an NDCO driven pilot project to place an employment consultant on University campuses, supporting graduates with disability to find a career.  This includes linkages with employers, assistance with disclosure of disability and negotiation of adjustments, assistance with applications, brokerage of work experience and internships as required.  It is available in a limited fashion while in trial phase.  We welcome expressions of interest from students outside of trial locations to give us an indication of where this type of service may be in demand.

https://www.usep.com.au/

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Research and Reports

Held back: The experiences of students with disabilities in Victorian schools – Analysis paper - Jul 2017

A Commission report into the experience of students with disabilities in Victorian schools has found that there have been significant policy developments and action but more work is required to measure and ensure real change for students.

The report details the progress made by the Department of Education and Training on the Commission’s recommendations made in its ground breaking 2012 research report Held back: the experiences of students with disabilities in Victorian schools. It draws on an analysis of information and engagement with the Department and other key stakeholders.

http://www.humanrightscommission.vic.gov.au/home/our-resources-and-publications/reports/item/1602-held-back-the-experiences-of-students-with-disabilities-in-victorian-schools-analysis-paper

HEPPP: The Australian student equity program and institutional change: paradigm shift or business as usual?

A report by NCSEHE Equity Fellow Dr Nadine Zacharias from Deakin University examined how the HEPPP initiative had been implemented by universities and whether it had met government aspirations for achieving student equity in higher education. This Australian-first comprehensive analysis of the Higher Education Participation and Partnerships Program (HEPPP) has informed recommendations for systemic change in policy and practice in student equity, which complements the current HEPPP review report, and could be a valuable contribution to the forthcoming national evaluation framework.

https://www.ncsehe.edu.au/publications/the-australian-student-equity-programme-and-institutional-change-paradigm-shift-or-business-as-usual/

NCSEHE: Successful outcomes for students with disability in Australian higher education

This evidence-based resource collates NCSEHE funded research to inform policy and practice and improve outcomes for equity students in Australian higher education.   Current research outlined in this paper includes a focus on sub-groups of students with a disability, such as Indigenous students and students on the Autism Spectrum, which not only deals with issues facing these particular groups, but which reinforces the variety, range and individuality of students with a disability.

https://www.ncsehe.edu.au/ncsehe-focus-successful-outcomes-students-disability-australian-higher-education/

Study underlines usefulness of lecture captions for all students

A 2017 study by Curtin University in Australia examines the benefits of captioning lecture capture recordings as a mainstream learning tool, with reference to inclusive teaching practice and the fulfilment of universities’ legal responsibility to provide equal access for all students.

http://www.ai-media.tv/study-shows-lecture-captions-benefit-students/

Barriers people with an ASD face outside of university

Universities across the board are experiencing an increase in the number of students requesting mental health support, and a similar rise is being seen in the number of students accessing support for autism spectrum conditions. Our executive director, Eileen Hopkins, considers those whose condition prevents them entering higher education.

http://www.ai-media.tv/what-about-the-young-people-with-an-asd-not-going-to-university/

The Brotherhood’s response to Senate Inquiry into delivery of outcomes under the National Disability Strategy 2010–2020

Enabling people with disability to participate fully in society requires investment in advocacy and in community supports, in the Brotherhood’s view. This involves more than service delivery, in order to position people as active members of local social and cultural networks.

Read the response via: Response to Senate Inquiry into delivery of outcomes under the National

Disability Strategy 2010–2020 http://library.bsl.org.au/jspui/bitstream/1/9843/1/BSL_response_Senate_Inquiry_outcomes_under_National_Disability_Strategy_Apr2017.pdf

After Hours Events - Improve your Social Skills In its 5th year and ADDING A NEW LOCATION!

Safe, creative opportunities for people 16+ of mixed abilities to extend personal & social skills through dance, drama, singing, public speaking & more. It’s about meeting new people, chatting, relationship building, learning & fun!

Highett Neighbourhood Community House

2, Livingston St, Highett (close to the Highett station)

7-10pm – 1st Wednesday of each month 2017

2 August, 6 September, 4 October, 1 November, 6 December.

ENTRY $20. RSVP BY EACH MONDAY PRIOR

DRESS NEAT CASUAL

Light refreshments & snacks provided. No alcohol. Contact Donna Gabriel, info@donnagabriel.com.au

0414 250 932

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Conferences /Workshops/Webinars

Supporting Students with Learning Disabilities in your Class 

Date: Monday 18 September 2017

Time: 9.00 am

Venue: Westall Secondary College, 88 Rosebank Ave, Clayton South VIC 3169

Cost: $50 per person

Registration: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/supporting-students-with-learning-disabilities-in-your-class-tickets-36126718989

For students with dyslexia and other learning difficulties – Karen StarKiss

Workshop content includes:

How to recognise dyslexia and other LDs in your class

What are the specific challenges faced by people with Learning Difficulties

The range of strategies students can use to overcome their learning difficulties

How you can support students in class and enable them to reach their potential

Tools and Technologies to help students access the curriculum and demonstrate their understanding

Lots of ideas and practical activities to support learners

Useful websites with free resources to support the teacher and the students

Enquiries: Sally Bailey, National Disability Coordination Officer, Southern   Melbourne Sally.Bailey@skillsplus.com.au (03) 9784 0400 0439 897 027 

or to arrange a session for your organisation please direct your inquiry to karen@dyslexiasupportservices.com.au 

Download Flyer 

WORD

PDF

EPIC Testability Academy (ETA)

ETA is offering successful candidates the chance to boost their employability in the IT sector by participating in a customised training programme, delivered by two leading experts in the field.

Course details

When: Our second ETA course will commence on 18 September and run until 4 December (12 weeks). The group will meet every Monday night, excluding public holidays.
Time: 5.30-7.30pm every Monday night
Where: Melbourne CBD
Cost: Free
Equipment: Candidates must bring their own laptops or devices with USB access

Selection criteria

To be considered as a suitable candidate, you must have a diagnosis on the autism spectrum, provided by a health professional. You will also need to demonstrate the following:

Be aged 18 or over;

Be able to complete the full 12 week (1 evening per week) duration of the course;

Working knowledge of the operation of a Windows/Mac computer system;

Familiarity with the use of electronic forms of communication (e.g. email, chat);

Open to developing verbal and written communication skills;

Open to developing teamwork skills; and

An eye for detail.

People on the autism spectrum who are interested in participating in the next ETA course can visit www.epicassist.org/au/epic-testability-academy/, email eta@epicassist.org  or call EPIC Assist on (07) 3857 5085.

Amaze Online Training

Access training at anytime from anywhere with our flexible online autism training courses. You are able to purchase, complete and review your courses at any time with a certificate offered on completion.

Try the Myth Busters Course FREE and have a look at the learning centre. At the same time, you will discover some of the common myths surrounding autism.

Autism: Diagnosis and History

This is a 1-hour introductory course which will provide you with an understanding of

What autism spectrum disorder is

Understand the recent changes in the diagnostic criteria

Understand how sensory processing differences impact a person and they engage with the environment

Develop an understanding of the impact of the history autism on people on the spectrum and their families

Understand the diagnostic process for children, youths and adults

General Price $65 incl. GST per person

Amaze Member Price incl. $45 per person

Introduction to Positive Behaviour Support

This 1-hour course will introduce you to the concepts of:

The differences between behaviour and behaviours of concern

Understanding and applying positive behaviour support \

Describing behaviour

 The functions of behaviour  Recording and monitoring behaviour • Behaviour support plans • Your legislative and ethical requirements regarding restrictive interventions Regular price: $65 Amaze members price: $45 For more information about Amaze Online Training visit: http://www.amaze.org.au/discover/howwe-can-help-you/amaze-training/

Free Webinars - Learning Differences and Dyslexia in High Schools

The Learning Difference Convention is proud to offer a series of 9 FREE webinars over 9 days.  Presentations by international experts working with the British Dyslexia Association towards international dyslexia awareness.

The box set and PDFs will be available for purchase after the last webinar on the 12 September. 

Post NAPLAN reflection for teachers, parents and students

Dates: 4 September to 12 September 2017

To register go to: http://www.learningdifferenceconvention.com/webinars/

*** Each seminar will contribute 1 hour of NESA Registered PD addressing 1.5.2 , 4.1.2 and 6.2.2 from the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers towards maintaining Proficient Teacher Accreditation in NSW.

Strengthening Disability Advocacy Conference 2017      

Getting into gear for the NDIS journey will feature a keynote address and facilitated panel discussions looking back on the journey so far, how well the principles of choice and control are being embedded in NDIS policy and processes and what road blocks to avoid on the road ahead. The conference will be held at NAB – Docklands on Thursday 14th and 15th September 2017. For more information and to register: http://www.daru.org.au/event/strengthening-disability-advocacy-conference-2017

Understanding the NDIS Price Guide Workshop

Date: 4 October 2017
Time: 9:30am-3:30pm
Location: Frankston Arts Centre, Rotary Room. 27-37 Davey St Frankston

This session will provide:

Up-to-date news from key agencies, including; NDS, NDIA and DHHS

An extended Panel Q and A session with key agency representatives

Guest presentation from the Disability Services Commissioner

An opportunity to network with your peers across the sector.

This session will address the purpose of the NDIS Price Guide, and how the document is best interpreted and applied. It will discuss the 'best fit approach' and the relationship between new NDIS terminology, the NDIS outcomes framework, participant goals and service type.

https://www.nds.org.au/events-and-training/bayside-peninsula-ndis-readiness-workshop-1?_cldee=bWljaGVsbGVAdGlja2V0dG93b3JrLm9yZy5hdQ%3d%3d&recipientid=contact-841bdac249f1e511a49f0050568e218a-5dd88780bdc74187921c4aa2e9805e5c&esid=3d667bd7-c487-e711-909e-0050568e2189

Resources and Tools

The Accessible Recruitment Guide: A Practical Resource for HR and Recruiters

The Accessible Recruitment Guide was created by Media Access Australia to provide practical ‘real world’ guidance on how best to address accessibility-related issues in recruitment and human resources management.

As a Guide to getting started and best practice, this accessible recruitment resource is designed to assist HR managers, recruitment specialists and hiring managers, along with diversity & equity teams, in regards to what can be done to help make the hiring process fully accessible on the web and in digital environments. What’s more, the benefits of accessibility also flow on to increased staff satisfaction as well as personnel retention.

http://www.mediaaccess.org.au/digitalaccessibilityservices/accessible-recruitment-guide-a-practical-resource-for-organisational-support/

Independent Living Centres Australia

What is Assistive Technology (AT) Any device, system or design that allows an individual to perform a task that they would otherwise be unable to do, or increase the ease and safety with which a task can be performed.  Anything that assists individuals to carry-out daily activities. If you require advice or assistance in choosing relevant AT products for your needs, please call the national ILC Infoline 1300 885 886

Find out more about Assistive Technology (AT) Information about products and services to help people remain independent and improve their quality of life. http://ilcaustralia.org.au/Using_Assistive_Technology

http://ilcaustralia.org.au/

NDIS Appeals service

AMIDA now offers free support to anyone who would like to challenge a decision made by the NDIS. This could include someone who has been denied access to the NDIS, or any NDIS participant who is unhappy with their plan.

If you’d like some postcards about the NDIS Appeals service, please send your postal address to Kathryn, the NDIS Appeals Support Advisor, at appeals@amida.org.au, and let her know how many you need. 

If you have any questions about the service, or would like to organize a short NDIS Appeals training session for a disability group you are in, email Kathryn at appeals@amida.org.au or call: 03 9650-2722.

You can find more information about the service and resources to help you plan for the NDIS here: http://www.amida.org.au/membership/ndisappeals/

New Ticket to Work Video

CTS (community, transition support) have a great video that provides six different perspectives

about participating in Ticket to Work.

http://www.tickettowork.org.au/introduction-video-ticket-work/

What is a LAC?

Local Area Coordinators (LACs) are local organisations who have partnered with the NDIA to deliver the NDIS. For a majority of participants, LACs will work with you to develop your plan, implement and monitor, plus link you to community services. Find out more via:

https://www.ndis.gov.au/communities/local-area-coordination

Download this document

PDF

WORD

Newsletter Winter 2017 Region 14

National Disability Coordination Officer Program Region 14

Customised Employment

Research and Reports

Five-Year Youth Mental Health Report

NCSEHE Focus: Successful outcomes for students with disability in Higher Education

Research looking at psychological reports for students experiencing learning difficulties

Conferences and Workshops

Australasian Society for Intellectual Disability (ASID) Conference

Disability Employment Australia Annual Conference

Access Easy English – Learn Easy English

Inclusion Melbourne - NDIS family readiness workshops

Inherent Requirements in the post-secondary education and training sectors Symposium

Study with your health, not against it 

The Inclusive Education Summit 2017

Resources and Tools

Aspect Capable Facebook page

Directory of Professional Learning for Flexible Learning Programs 

Disability Awareness Training Online 

Free Captioning and description editing tool

Transition to Employment: tools for school leavers

Outside the Square professional learning films are available for free viewing on YouTube. 

Newsletter Autumn 2017

National Disability Coordination Officer Program Region 14

How do we make Work Experience for Students with Disability Work?

Victorian Disability Awards 2017

Stepping Into paid internships for students with disability

Disability Scholarship Program

Australian Disability and Indigenous Peoples' Education Fund

Evaluation of Youth Mental Health Trial released

Autism Workshop: Differences not disorders – Supports for all people

Supporting People with Complex Trauma Histories Workshop

ADCET WEBINAR

Australasian Society for Intellectual Disability (ASID) Conference

Autism & Dyslexia Forum 10th May 2017

Disability Employment Australia Annual Conference

The Inclusive Education Summit 2017

Resources

Youth Disability Advocacy Service

SCHOOL SELF EVALUATION AUDIT OF PROVISION FOR STUDENTS WITH LEARNING DIFFICULTIES/DISABILITIES

Specialist Mentor for Students with Autism

Newsletter Summer 2017

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National Disability Coordination Officer Program Region 14

Welcome to the spring edition of the NDCO programme newsletter for region 14. If you would like information about special projects, networks and professional development opportunities in relation to education & employment for people with disability please contact the NDCO program. 

Sally Bailey, National Disability Coordination Officer T (03) 9784 0400 M 0439 897 027

 E sbailey@skillsplus.com.au   W www.ndcovictoria.net.au

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Innovative careers program wins award

 Young people with disability are challenging limiting stereotypes and preparing for independent lives after school. A group of senior students at Naranga, a specialist school in Frankston, are proving that young people with disability are able to develop the skills needed for success in the world of work.

They are participating in a Careers Access Program, which recently won a Victorian Disability Services Award for excellence in employment outcomes. It aims to develop employability, build confidence and prepare young people for the workforce.

-See more at: http://www.tickettowork.org.au/stories/innovative-careers-program-wins-excellence-award/#sthash.td5MZFiF.RcjPQpls.dpuf

https://www.youtube.com/user/AAPathways

Figure 1 Student gardening

VET Student Loans

VET Student Loans commenced on 1 January 2017, replacing the VET FEE‑HELP scheme, which ceased on 31 December 2016. Information about the new program is outlined in the resources below. This page will be updated regularly as additional information becomes available.

http://education.gov.au/vet-student-loans

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Policy and Research

Endeavour Foundation Endowment Challenge Fund

The Endeavour Foundation Endowment Challenge Fund is a Charitable Trust established to benefit Australians with a disability, especially people with an intellectual or developmental disability. The Fund aims to encourage quality and innovation in the disability services sector. Funding is available in an annual competitive grants round for researchers and postgraduate students to undertake research into issues of key importance for the Australian disability sector. For more information go to www.endowmentchallengefund.com.au/

ILC Commissioning Framework Consultation

The NDIS  has just released the next version of the ILC Commissioning Framework. This version incorporates the feedback we received as part of the ILC consultation sessions held last year.

The ILC Commissioning Framework explains how the ILC Policy will be implemented by:

Outlining the vision for ILC to build an ordinary life for people with disability through greater community inclusion

Explaining how the outcomes that ILC will achieve for people with disability contribute to the vision and community inclusion

Describing the role of ILC in the NDIS.

Ultimately, the ILC Commissioning Framework sets the scene for the commissioning processes that will follow.

https://www.ndis.gov.au/communities/ilc-home/ilc-commissioning-framework-consultation

Longitudinal Study of Australian School Leavers and their Families

Researchers from the Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre  the Autism Cooperative Research Centre (Autism CRC) are together conducting the longitudinal study, a unique profile of school leavers with Autism.

For this purpose, OTARC would like to invite adolescents and adults (with or without an ASD) who are in their final years of school, or first years post-school (aged 15-25), to participate in a longitudinal study.  We are also inviting parents or guardians of these students to be involved.

What are the aims of this study?

The main aim of this study is to better understand the process of transitioning from school to adult life for Australian students with an ASD and their families.

We would also like to understand how students who DO NOT have an ASD transition from school to adult life, in order to understand the unique ASD profiles and issues associated with this period.

Who can participate in this study?

•              Students with an ASD, finishing school or in their first years post-school

•              Students without an Autism Spectrum condition finishing school or in their first years post-school

•              A parent/guardian of one of the above young

To find out more, you can contact Dr Mirko Uljarevic (M.Uljarevic@latrobe.edu.au) or Ms Ru Ying Cai (R.Cai@latrobe.edu.au) or you can follow these two links:

http://www.autismcrc.com.au/longitudinal-study-school-leavers-autism

http://otarc.blogs.latrobe.edu.au/longitudinal-study-of-school-leavers-with-autism-invitation-to-participate

National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) & Mental Health

The final publications of the June 2013 to 2016 ‘NDIS and Mental Health Analysis Partnership Project’ undertaken with the Mental Health Commission of NSW in the NSW Hunter NDIS trial site are now available.

• Navigating the NDIS: Lessons Learned through the Hunter Trial

• Guideline for Establishing a Local NDIS Community of Practice to Enhance Learning and Sector Reform

mhcc.org.au/policy-advocacy-reform/influence-and-reform/ndis-and-mental-healthpsychosocial-disability.aspx

Resilience/Thriving in Post-Secondary Students with Disabilities (NCSEHE)

Across most universities in Australia, students with a disability have been enrolling in greater numbers than ever before. However, the scholarship and research on equity in the Australian higher education sector has largely ignored the needs of these students. The overarching goal of this study was to explore and describe the lived experiences of students with a self-disclosed disability enrolled at a regional university in Australia.

https://www.ncsehe.edu.au/publications/resiliencethriving-in-post-secondary-students-with-disabilities/

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Professional Development

Australian Disability Clearinghouse on Education and Training (ADCET) Webinar

Thursday 10 March, 1pm - 2pm AEDT

ADCET in partnership with The National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER)  is excited to bring you a webinar showcasing the finding from a recently released research project 'Supporting tertiary students with disabilities: individualised and institution-level approaches in practice'.

The research explores the complex factors affecting the implementation of learning supports to assist students with disabilities or ongoing health conditions and provides examples of best practice. It finds that students, disability services staff, and teachers are all important in identifying support needs, developing support plans and negotiating how learning can be reasonably adjusted to meet an individual’s needs. However, these viewpoints differ highlighting the need for greater collaboration to provide relevant and effective learning supports.

This webinar will be presented by two of the researchers, Dr Annie Venville and Professor Ellie Fossey.

Further information and links to the registration page will be added shortly to adcet.edu.au/resource/9234/

Melbourne Disability Research to Action Forum

The NDIS will introduce new approaches to service delivery and innovative opportunities for technology and design development, underscoring the critical role of research and evidence-based practice. This full-day event will feature leading disability researchers and service providers showcasing research-based practice. Specific sessions will demonstrate the evidence base for critical areas including achieving quality services and service design, housing, interfaces between services, workforce, and inclusion and community participation.

Wednesday 15 February 2017

Time: 9:00-4:30

Location: RMIT University, Level 7,  Building 80, 445 Swanston Street, Melbourne

Cost: Members of NDS and/or the NDS Victorian Research Advisory Group: $140 Students: $50 People with a disability: $50 Non-members: $180 Contact information For any enquiries, please contact Liza Brown-Pinsky, Policy and Project Officer, Victoria, 03 8341 4309, liza.brown-pinsky@nds.org

2017 Round Table Conference

 “Information Access – new modes, technologies and opportunities”

Information access is important to all persons with print disabilities, and has many dimensions including format (braille, large print, E-text, etc.), facilities (libraries, agencies, educational institutions, government bodies) and modes of access (tablet, laptop, refreshable braille). The 2017 Conference will explore the ever-expanding opportunities presented to people with print disabilities for communication, learning and information access and creation.

This conference provides three full days of technical, research and panel sessions, presentations and practical workshops on issues related to accessibility. There are also many opportunities for networking and socialising with key speakers, panel members and attendees.

Dates and Venue

Saturday, 6 May 2017 – Tuesday, 9 May 2017

Mercure Perth, 10 Irwin Street, Perth WA 6000

Call for Papers Are Now Open

Closing date for submission of Abstracts: Wednesday, 30 November 2016.

Call for Abstracts Paper (48 KB)

Abstract Submission Form (36 KB)

http://printdisability.org/conference/

Training for people with an intellectual disability to be Peer Educators about safety in relationships

This is a free program to train people with intellectual disabilities about safe relationships and sex.

We are looking looking for people with disabilities to become paid 'Peer Educators'.

Train the Trainer training:

When: 12, 14, 20 & 21 February

Time: 9.30am - 3.00pm

Where: The Corner youth hub, 91 Wilsons Rd, Mornington

Book: Contact Virginia Richardson by Monday 6 Feb on 5950 1630 or email richve@mornpen.vic.gov.au

We are also looking for people (such as support workers) to do the training as 'Program Partners'. The program will work to reduce the unacceptably high rates of physical and sexual violence against people with a disability, through training, leadership and a local network.

For more background on the program, visit the Deakin site here.

http://www.deakin.edu.au/health-social-development/programs/SLRR?ct=t(Disability_News_and_Events_MetroAccess_MPS_Jan2017)

Date:  Mon, 13/02/2017 - 09:30 - 15:00

Contact Name:  Virginia Richardson

Contact Phone:  5950 1630

Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder - Teaching Strategies and Behaviour Support

Friday 24 February 2017

Join Sue for inspiring, entertaining and informative workshops throughout Australia and New Zealand. These are fun, fast moving and exciting days which will give attendees the confidence and understanding needed to help make it a success.

Time: 9.30am to 3.00pm

Where: The Crest on Barkly, 47 Barkly Street, ST KILDA, VIC 3182

Sue also offers a number of workshops throughout Australia with world-renowned Dr Tony Attwood.

All of our workshops are for anyone wanting to understand more about autism spectrum disorder and how to support children and adults with an ASD – including educators, families and all ASD service providers.

All training is Nationally Accredited as Professional Development for Teachers.

https://suelarkey.com.au/workshops/ registration essential

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Resources

Access and Inclusion Index

Access and Inclusion is the consideration and incorporation of the needs of people with disability in all areas of an organisation’s operations. This means ensuring that people with disability have equal access to employment, training and development, products and services, premises, communication and information communication technology. 

For more information about the Access and Inclusion Index and how to use it go to

https://accessandinclusionindex.com.au/overview

AGOSCI 13th Biennial Conference

17 - 20 May 2017

The Grand Hyatt, Melbourne, Australia

** Early Bird Registration is now open!

The AGOSCI Conference Theme for 2017 is "Ready, Set, AACtion". The conference is an opportunity for people who use AAC, their families, friends, work colleagues, and people who work within the area of Augmentative and Alternative Communication to come together to share their knowledge and skills.

Registration for the AGOSCI Conference is now open. You can easily register via an online form or download the registration brochure and manually complete a form.

Please note: Early Bird rates are valid until the 28th of February 2017 after which standard rates will apply. Register Online Now

http://alloccasionsgroup.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=60c950af82506047d05112ca4&id=882131ce6c&e=4898c99552

AGOSCI Scholarship Information

Limited funding will be available for scholarships to support people with complex communication needs to attend the AGOSCI 2017 Conference.   Applications close 28 February 2017. Click below for further information on how to apply and who is eligible.

http://alloccasionsgroup.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=60c950af82506047d05112ca4&id=cf134975f6&e=4898c99552

Document Accessibility Toolbar (DAT)

An innovation that revolutionises the ease and speed of creating accessible documents in Microsoft Word, the Document Accessibility Toolbar (DAT) supports individuals and organisations to embrace accessibility as ‘business as usual’ at no cost.

The DAT puts the power of accessible functionality into the hands of content authors, for the ultimate benefit of consumers with disability or age-related impairment.

https://www.visionaustralia.org/dat

Decision-making support: Building Capacity within Victoria

The aim of the Supported Decision Making Project was to build knowledge on how people with cognitive impairment can be supported to make major life decisions, such as post-school options and accommodation.

The research, conducted by La Trobe University, explored the processes and dilemmas associated with supporting people with cognitive disability in decision making. The outcomes of the research were then used by Scope to develop a range of resources to improve knowledge and build capacity in the area of decision-making support. The multimedia and print resources target families and carers, service providers, and legal professionals.

http://www.scopeaust.org.au/research-project/decision-making-support-building-capacity-within-victoria/

Disability Knowledge Clearing House

The CADR Disability Knowledge Clearing House exists to help us understand 'what works, for whom, under what circumstances, at what cost’. Here you will find a repository of links to a wide range of disability research and evaluation resources. CADR is constantly adding material to this site with the aim of building the most comprehensive collection of disability research and resources for the Australian context.

http://www.cadr.org.au/

Downloadable Disability Access Symbols

There are over 54 million citizens with disability who want and need access to work and the buildings in which people work. Apart from all ethical considerations, the law demands that people with disability are accommodated.

These symbols advertise your accessibility to employees, customers, audiences, and anyone else who needs access to your building or offices. Examples of places you’ll want to promote your accessibility include: advertisements, newsletters, conference and program brochures, membership forms, building signage, floor plans and maps.

http://www.artsaccessaustralia.org/resources/publications/118-downloadable-disability-access-symbols 

Employ Outside the Box

Employ Outside the Box is a series of publications to encourage businesses to diversify their workforce. By providing a clear business case and a systematic approach to internal procedures, the guides help businesses to hire people with disability, mature-age workers, Indigenous Australians and other categories of people with skills to offer.

https://www.acci.asn.au/program/employ-outside-box 

Get Ready Workbook Series

The NDCO program has developed a series of workbooks for young people with disability, a chronic medical condition or a mental health condition to help plan life after school. 

These workbooks are based on the top ten tips for moving into post school education, training and employment pathways.  They contain practical activities, facts on rights and responsibilities, useful links and more!

There are three workbooks: 

•              Get Ready – Top Tips for Students with Disability

•              Get Ready – Top Tips for ATSI Students with Disability

•              Get Ready – A Guide for Parents

The workbooks are FREE to download and can be progressively completed electronically and saved to a computer. 

There is also a plain text version for users of assistive technology and an Easy English version of the Student and ATSI workbook for people with low literacy or language skills.

You can download all versions at www.westernsydney.edu.au/ndco/

Opening All Options Disability

ADCET has relaunch the updated Opening All Options Disability Learning Resource (OAO) via a Webinar.  The resource has been revamped to ensure the information provided is current, with the aim to improve the knowledge and skills of Disability Practitioners, Academics & Teaching staff about students with Specific Learning Disability (SLD).  The latest version was updated by leading Australian disability practitioners Julie Fry and Jo Webber, and is hosted and managed by ADCET.

You can find out more about OAO here http://www.adcet.edu.au/oao/

Individual pages can be printed along with questionnaires and there is even a referral letter to request a formal assessment that can be downloaded.  We hope all of this makes your job easier.

Person-Centred Practice across Cultures resources

Person-Centred Practice Across Cultures is a series of resources focusing on the crucial importance of cultural awareness and sensitivity in disability support and service delivery.  There are 14 workbooks to assist you to be sensitive to and maximise cultural and linguistic diversity in your work. They cover issues such as choice and control for CALD customers, attracting people, engaging with local communities, bilingual workers and interpreters, and the business case for culturally-sensitive service delivery.

The Person-Centred Practice Across Cultures project was designed by futures Upfront for NDS. Funding was provided by the NSW Department of Family and Community Services, Ageing, Disability and Home Care.

Person Centred Practice across cultures resource

Supporting tertiary students with ASD

Information for university and TAFE students diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), their parents, and tertiary staff interested in learning more about ASD.

This information pertains to supporting students with an ASD in academic settings and comes from a variety of sources including local and international information, peer reviewed research and research conducted at OTARC (funded by DHS, Victoria).  The information provided is general and not targeted for specific tertiary institutions.

http://www.latrobe.edu.au/otarc/families-individuals/support

Download PDF version

Download Word Version

Peninsula Specialist School Career's and Well-being Expo May 2018

Peninsula Specialist School is one of many schools holding Career's and Well-being Expo's across the Southern Melbourne and Bayside areas this school term.  Thank you so much to all the services that have taken time out of what is a very hectic schedule to meet our upcoming school leavers with disability.  Your work is very much appreciated by schools, families and mostly students.

Top Ten Tips to find a Tutor

One of the most frequent questions I am asked is ‘How do I find a good tutor?’  Parents want to do the best for their children particularly if the children have a Specific learning Disorder (SLD) such as dyslexia, dyscalculia, dyspraxia or dysgraphia, or a combination of all of them.

Finding a good tutor for your child is not going to be easy:  Some parents have unrealistic expectations, are looking for a ‘silver bullet’ or a ‘cure’.  There is no cure, just a lot of hard work.

The hard work is going to be done by your child, you only have to provide your hard earned dollars.  The money invested in a tutor can be a major investment, but your child is going to invest far more in terms of blood, sweat, tears and self-esteem.

When any large investment like a house or a car people usually need to do some research, so how much more important is your child?  You need to do some research.

For instance, when buying a car, would you say to your friend?  ‘Can you recommend a car for me to buy?’  Your friend might say ‘I think my Honda Jazz is great, you should get one.  But you have a dog so need a wagon.  All kids are different but kids with SLDs are very different.  You need to do some research.

Research is also necessary because a Parliamentary inquiry said  ‘There were also concerns raised that tutors operate in an unregulated environment’, page XIV http://www.parliament.vic.gov.au/file_uploads/ETC_Homework_Inquiry_final_report_PWkrPPVH.pdf

Money

You must choose how much you are prepared to spend: A Rolls Royce or a Honda Jazz?  Tutors typically cost somewhere between $80-$150 per hour.  Just because they charge more does not mean that they are better tutors, just more expensive.  Some tutors call themselves ‘consultants’ or ‘therapists’.  However they are all basically just teachers who want to work with kids who have SLDs.  You need to do some more research.

Location

Where you live matters unless you can also invest your time into ferrying your child to and from the tutor’s place.

Learning Difficulties Australia (LDA) https://www.ldaustralia.org/  is a professional association of teachers, speech pathologists and other professionals, highly regarded in the community, which has a list of tutors/consultants sorted by their location, so this is a good start. LDA also requires teachers to have extra specialized qualifications in order to be on their LDA Online Tutor search. Additionally, LDA Consultant Members are expected to continue their professional development in the learning difficulty field and must submit yearly evidence showing ongoing learning that conforms to strict standards for continued renewal of their LDA Consultant registration https://www.ldaustralia.org/consultants.html

Qualifications

 The minimum qualifications any tutor should have is a registration with the Victorian Institute of teachers’ (VIT).  The VIT is the regulatory body which ensures that teachers have done an approved University teacher training course.  In order to maintain their registration teachers are also required by the VIT to keep up to date by undertaking Professional Development (PD). It is important that tutors have teaching qualifications and are registered with their teacher registration board that ensures they meet professional standards for teaching

VIT registration of a person can easily be checked by using the VIT website here: http://www.vit.vic.edu.au/search-the-register/_nocache   You can search by their name and/or registration number.  This search also tells you when registration was first granted, which will give you an idea of how experienced the tutor is.  If they are not registered –Don’t go there!

More qualifications

Most teachers who are interested in working with kids who have SLDs undertake further specialised training.  Unfortunately this is where it gets a bit murky.  There is no regulatory body in Australia whose job it is to monitor the quality of such Professional Development providers.  Anybody can put up their shingle and charge whatever the market will bear. 

Fortunately Alison Clarke http://www.spelfabet.com.au, has done much of the research into appropriate programs as she was on the Professional Development committee for Learning Difficulties Australia.  The list of training providers can be found on her blog here: http://www.spelfabet.com.au/2016/03/upcoming-training-in-synthetic-phonics/.  If your tutor has done one of these you know its good.

If the qualification is not on the list: Look at their specialised qualifications and ask them what they mean and if you can view their certificates.  If they get angry or have ‘lost’ them.  Don’t go there.  (I am very proud of my qualifications because it took me a lot of blood sweat and tears to get them-I would never ‘lose’ them.)

Seeing the bits of paper is important especially if the qualifications are from overseas.  In the UK or the US there are many excellent specialized courses.  Just make sure your tutor has done one of them and exactly what it is and what it involved.

Evidence based Professional Development courses

Another help through the murky waters of PDs is AUSPELD.  AUSPELD is the Australian Federation of Speld Associations and is also highly regarded in the community http://auspeld.org.au/   

The peak body for anybody with SLDs to go to in this state is Speld Vic.  Each state has its own Speld organization, all coming under the umbrella of AUSPELD.

AUSPELD has a free, online version of ‘Understanding learning Difficulties for parents’.  This has a list of evidence based interventions here: http://uldforparents.com/contents/selecting-a-successful-intervention-program/what-does-the-research-tell-us-about-different-interventions/   This also lists the degree of evidence and rough costs.  (Again remember the Rolls Royce factor –high cost is no guarantee of a quality course).

This information does not recommend the ‘best’ course for a tutor to do or the ‘gold standard’ course because there is no ‘best’ course.  If you tutor says there is a ‘best’ course and she has done it, ask for the article that proves it, written in a peer-reviewed journal.  (There are’nt any!)

This research will give you a guide through the murky waters of PDs.

The choice

After having found a tutor you like the look of, you must put her to the vital test.  Your child!  The choice is not just yours but also your child’s.  There must be a good relationship.  If not- Don’t go there! 

A good relationship is important as the tutor must exploit a child’s strengths and ensure he succeeds.  Success is the key to motivation.  Children need the motivation if they are going to carry on and undertake all the hard work they will need to do.

In school

In Victoria, provided a tutor has VIT registration, and with the approval of the school, a tutor is allowed to take a child out of school during the day, in order to tutor her.  This has a couple of advantages.  Tutors are usually busy before and after school and the child does not have to face more work at the end of the school day when they are exhausted.  (Some schools also allow suitably qualified teachers, who work as tutors, to provide specialized learning support at schools)

Qualifications caveat

Qualifications are important because they get tutors over that first hurdle and enable a tutor to get the vital VIT registration.  However, I know of many, older teachers who do not have lots of letters after their names.  They are excellent, dedicated teachers.  This is basically what you are looking for:  A tutor who can relate to your children and who knows their stuff and how to teach.

More about courses

As you have seen, AUSPELD has a number of recommended courses.  They all have one thing in common.  They all teach Structured Synthetic Phonics (SSP).

This is important as all the evidence from reading researchers tells us that this is how all children learn to read.

Structured - This means, for example you teach the sounds in in a structured way.  From simpler sound/letter correspondence to those that are more complex

Synthetic - This means that the sounds are built up (synthesized) by blending them together.

Phonics  - Simply is the link between the sound, the printed word and its meaning.

 Efficacy

The tutoring given should work.  Your child should improve.  If not, find another one.  If you have any complaints tell the tutor.  If they are from LDA, tell LDA.

However, remember that by nature specific learning difficulties are ‘persistent’ and do continue throughout an individual’s life time to some extent. The degree of progress is also dependent on how severe the learning difficulty is. The earlier learning difficulties are identified, and effective intervention implemented, the better the long term prognosis. Internal factors such as resilience and persistence also play a role.

Ann Williams

BSc(Hons),Grad.Dip.Ed.,Grad.Dip. App.Sc., M.Ed.

 e: awillia732@gmail.com

 fb: Dyslexis,Dyscalculia and LD Parent Support Group

Explore the Opportunities Expo Hastings

Planning, Education, Training and Employment Supports with People with Disability

Wednesday 24th June 2015

Peninsula Programs for Students with Disability (PPSDA) School Expo was a highly successful event with  approximately 150 students from Frankston SDS, Nepean School, Naranga, Mornington SDS and Peninsula Specialist College.  The students participated in a life planning workshop and a research your interest activity.  There were several prizes and free gifts on the day including free passes to Gravity Zone  and Village Cinemas.  Students were asked to consider what they would like to keep doing when they leave school, to follow their passion and to keep learning along the way. There were 30 stalls ranging from education training employment recreation  advocacy and disability support services.  This event was successful due to the commitment of the PPSDA school and service representatives on the day.  

View pictures on facebook

The Lab is a growing network of technology clubs for 10 to 16 year-old young people diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome or High Functioning Autism who enjoy working with computers. It offers one-to-one tuition by technology professionals in areas such as programming, 3D, digital design and gaming. The Lab started in April 2011 with a single weekly group in Footscray, Melbourne.

http://www.thelab.org.au/

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BH2dqz_Musc&feature=player_embedded

Details coming soon

NDCO Inclusive Learning and Pathways Conference

Friday 23 November 2018

Keynote Presenter - Sarah Barton

Specialist School Pathways Expos 2019

National Disability Insurance Scheme 

On 1 September 2018 the National Disability Insurance Scheme began operating in the Southern Melbourne Area. Over the coming months a large number of participants will attend planning meetings for the development of their first plan. Due to the high numbers in the area  Latrobe Community Health Service Local Area Coordinators are unable to provide a timeline for when these meetings will occur. 

To assist participants to prepare for the planning meeting, Latrobe Community Health Service Local Area Coordinators will be running a series of information sessions and workshops. 
Details of upcoming sessions available are below.

City of Casey
Dates:
- Thursday 7th February 2019 - 10:30am – 12:00pm
- Monday 11th February 2019 - 10:30am – 12:00pm
Venue:
Lynbrook Community Centre 
2 Harris St Lynbrook

City of Greater Dandenong
Dates:
- Tuesday 12th February 2019 - 10:30am – 12:00pm
- Wednesday 13th February 2019 - 7:00pm – 8:30pm
- Thursday 21st February 2019 - 1:30pm – 3:00pm
Venue:
Council Offices, Level 2, 225 Lonsdale St, Dandenong.

Cardinia Shire
Dates:
- Tuesday 19th February 2019 - 10:30am – 12:00pm
- Wednesday 20th February 2019 - 7:00pm – 8:30pm
Venue:
Toomah Community Centre
18 Golden Green Street, Pakenham

RSVP and Enquiries: 
1800 242 696