#Australian Government Hearing Services Program

[freedomaus]

Get Access to the Latest Hearing Aid Accessories. Freedom Hearing Can Help You Rediscover the Volumes & Vitality of Life. Book Your Free Hearing Check.

Visit: https://www.adshoo.com/506/posts/3-Services/125-Building-Remodeling-Extensions/199225-Hearing-Aid-Accessories.html

[dialogue-queered]

Australian Issues Primer

Comment: Combine a neo-liberal, national government aiming to make savings at any cost using decision-making algorithms to recover money come hell or high water with the view that legal analyses were just another opinion, and with a vicious contempt for welfare recipients.

Outcome: an illegal scheme causing widespread recipient despair, even suicide, over many years and a conclusion that ministerial and public servants' conduct amounted to varieties of abuse of power.

Report:

7 July 2023

On Friday [7 July] the royal commission into robodebt handed down its damning findings into the scheme. Here’s what you need to know.

What was the royal commission investigating?

The commission was established last year to investigate the federal government scheme known as robodebt, which was designed to recover supposed overpayments from welfare recipients going back to the financial year 2010-11.

The scheme relied heavily on a process known as “income averaging” to assess income and a person’s entitlement to a benefit.

Catherine Holmes SC was asked to investigate how and why the scheme was created, designed and implemented, and who was responsible; how risks and concerns about it were dealt with and how complaints and challenges were managed by the government; the use of third-party debt collectors; and the human and economic impacts of the scheme.

There were 3,030 hours of hearings held with 115 witnesses, with more than 5,050 pages of transcripts. More than 10,000 exhibits were tendered.

What did it find?

The commission’s 900-page report released on Friday found the “cruel and crude” scheme was “devised without regard to the social security law” using an averaging process to estimate welfare recipients’ income in a manner that “was essentially unfair, treating many people as though they had received income at a time when they had not”.

Holmes accused the architects of robodebt of “an obliviousness to, or worse a callous disregard, of the fact that many welfare recipients had neither the means nor the ability to negotiate an online system” to provide evidence of their income dating back five years.

An unknown number of key figures have been referred for civil and criminal charges, although the names are in a sealed chapter of the report that has not been released publicly.

Robodebt had “disastrous effects” including “families struggling to make ends meet receiving a debt notice at Christmas, young people being driven to despair by demands for payment, and, horribly, an account of a young man’s suicide”, the report said.

Who has been implicated?

The royal commission’s report is scathing of the former prime minister Scott Morrison, former government services minister Stuart Robert and former department of human services secretary Kathryn Campbell. It also damns Alan Tudge, who was human services minister in 2017 when the robodebt scheme was under scrutiny.

Holmes directly criticised Morrison in her report for not making proper inquiries in his role as social services minister about why his department went back on its 2015 suggestion that income averaging required legislative change.

The commission all but rejected Robert’s evidence that he attempted to end the scheme as soon as possible and had serious concerns about income averaging.

It found Campbell “had been responsible for a department that had established, implemented and maintained an unlawful program. When exposed to information that brought to light the illegality of income averaging, she did nothing of substance. When presented with opportunities to obtain advice on the lawfulness of that practice, she failed to act.”

Holmes found that Tudge was “not open to considering any significant alteration, or cessation, of processes underlying those fundamental features” and used “information about social security recipients in the media to distract from and discourage commentary about the scheme’s problems represented an abuse of that power”.

What did the report recommend?

There were 57 recommendations in the report. These included that a body should be set up to monitor automatic decision-making processes, that Services Australia should establish a debt-recovery management policy, that the government should review the structure of the social services portfolio and the status of Services Australia, and changes to the Freedom of Information Act so that the description of a cabinet document can no longer justify it remaining confidential.

It also recommended that Services Australia should design policies with an emphasis on recipients, which also shouldn’t reinforce feelings of stigma associated with government support; that consideration should be given to the vulnerabilities of recipients who could be affected by compliance programs; and that a new legal framework is needed for the use of automation in government services, with a clear path for review by those affected by related decisions.

What happens next?

Some of the people criticised in the report are yet to comment publicly, so it is unclear if they dispute the findings.

Morrison rejected the findings and said he “acted in good faith and on clear and deliberate department advice” that it wasn’t necessary to legislate the scheme and “presented comprehensive evidence to support this position”.

“I reject completely each of the findings which are critical of my involvement in authorising the scheme and are adverse to me. They are wrong, unsubstantiated and contradicted by clear documentary evidence presented to the commission,” he said.

Robert says he has “not received a notice of inclusion in the ‘sealed section’ and I understand they have all gone out” meaning he is unlikely to be among the people referred for investigation.

Tudge has made similar comments, saying he had not received notification of any referral and “my legal team has not identified any basis of which any civil or criminal prosecution could successfully be made against me”.

Those who are criticised in the report will also not necessarily be subject to the civil and criminal referrals that are included in the sealed chapter.

Those referrals themselves could be expected to take months to investigate, and the nature of them may not be known until the individuals who have been implicated are charged, should such prosecutions occur.

But the report does note that “on the evidence before the commission, elements of the tort of misfeasance in public office appear to exist” which points to the possible nature of the referrals.

The report also noted that “where litigation is not available, the Commonwealth does have a “Scheme for Compensation for Detriment caused by Defective Administration” (which would be a very euphemistic way of describing what happened in the robodebt scheme) where a person has suffered from defective administration and there is no legal requirement to make a payment. It is not appropriate to say any more on that front.” This appears to suggest those affected by the scheme may be able to make further claims against the government (noting, however, the robodebt class action settlement).

Bill Shorten, the minister for government services, made clear that while he understood why people may be frustrated with the referrals remaining private, he did not wish anything to compromise possible prosecutions.

– Australian Associated Press contributed to this report

[yogabilitymind]

Choosing an NDIS Service Provider Brisbane

Choosing an ndis service provider Brisbane is a crucial decision for anyone with disability. It is important to select a provider that understands your unique needs and supports you on your journey towards independence.

Registered NDIS providers are vetted by the NDIA and have to meet a certain number of conditions and requirements. These include compliance with NDIS practice standards, approved support workers, and a responsive complaints management system. They also need to be culturally inclusive.

Life without Barriers

Life without Barriers is an approved provider of home care packages, subsidised by the Australian government. These packages can cover personal care, domestic assistance, social support, meals and shopping, nursing or allied health input, or the loan of basic equipment.

Every person has rights, and as a person with disability, you have extra laws that make sure you live safely and have the same choices as everyone else. These laws are called the Convention on the Rights of People with Disabilities.

The NDIS review is a great opportunity to improve the system and ensure it truly meets your needs. Attend a town hall briefing to hear directly from NDIS Review panel members and ask your questions. There will be Auslan interpreters and closed captioning.

Multicap

Multicap is an ndis service provider brisbane that offers a range of supports to people with disabilities. These include home and community access, flexible respite support, centre-based accommodation and supported living services. The non-profit also offers support coordination, training and employment services. Multicap works closely with TAFE Queensland to ensure its workforce has the right skills and experience. The non-profit is also consulting with TAFE on the development of a micro-credential qualification to bring consistency to the disability industry.

For example, a recent employment placement at the Monte Lupo Gallery Cafe enabled Alex and Jeffrey to build confidence and develop valuable workplace skills. In addition, they gained customer service and management experience that will help them in their future careers. Multicap aims to provide the highest quality of care and support to its clients.

Endeavour Foundation

Endeavour Foundation offers a range of services that enable people with disability to live, learn, work and flourish according to their own interests and priorities. It is known for its prize home lotteries, which raise funds for its services.

Its experts take the time to understand their customers – their lifestyle, routines, and dreams. They then collaborate with them to develop effective personalised support.

Endeavour operates 34 ADEs across Queensland and Victoria, where its people with disability work in areas such as food production and packaging, timber furniture making, metal fabrication, e-recycling, confidential document destruction, horticulture, and industrial cleaning.

The organisation’s services are split into four categories: Home & Daily Living, Learning & Life Skills, Working & Community Participation and Respite. The organisation also offers a number of group and individual leisure activities.

CPL

CPL is a disability service provider that helps people with ndis disability services fined ways to live more independent lives. It offers a range of services, including training programs and support groups. Several of these programs focus on specific disabilities. These include autism, epilepsy, and cerebral palsy. Some of these programs are free, while others cost money. In addition to these programs, CPL also offers community events. Its goal is to inspire passion through meaningful experiences. Its programs help to provide the best possible outcomes for participants and their families. MPA will bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the CPL team. This includes a diverse portfolio of projects and strong relationships with clients, including Cleveland Clinic, University Hospitals, MetroHealth, and Oberlin College and Conservatory. MPA also has a reputation for delivering high-quality, innovative design.

[starhearing]

Tinnitus Specialists in Perth

Tinnitus can be a real problem for some people. It can cause stress and affect sleep patterns. It can also be caused by an underlying health issue that can be treated by a doctor or otolaryngologist.

The team of audiologists at Value Hearing are experienced in helping their clients to take control of their tinnitus. They offer commission-free hearing services and a wide range of devices from the world’s leading manufacturers.

Zoe Sampson

Zoe Sampson is a licensed tinnitus specialist perth who helps clients get relief from their persistent, ringing sound. Tinnitus affects two out of three Australians and can be a significant obstacle to daily living. Most cases of tinnitus are not caused by an underlying medical condition and can be treated with a variety of methods.

A tinnitus expert will start with a comprehensive diagnostic assessment to determine the severity of your condition and to isolate the root cause. This can be as simple as a build-up of excessive ear wax or a middle ear infection. In these situations, the tinnitus will resolve itself after treatment.

A tinnitus expert will ask you to describe the sounds you are hearing. This can help them identify the type of tinnitus you are experiencing and get to the root cause more quickly. They will also ask you about any medications you are taking because some can affect the sounds perceived deep within the ear.

Tennille Crooks

Rhian completed her Bachelor of Anatomical Sciences in 2013 and a Master of Clinical Audiology in 2015 from the University of Western Australia, graduating with distinction. She is a member of Audiology Australia and a registered practitioner with the Australian government hearing services program, which means she is accredited to provide a full range of audiological assessments. Her passion is providing a holistic, client-centred approach to audiological healthcare and specialises in tinnitus management and decreased sound tolerance assessment and treatment. Rhian enjoys working at Perth Hearing & Tinnitus Clinic as it provides an independent service which aligns with her core values and allows her to provide ethical recommendations to clients.

Darren Grech

Darren Grech is an Australian hearing loss in Australia that focuses on helping people with Tinnitus with natural therapies and holistic healing. He uses the body’s innate wisdom to treat underlying causes, rather than just masking symptoms with drugs. This approach allows him to help patients with conditions that have failed to respond to conventional medicine.

Having over 17 years experience, Darren Grech specializes in various Naturopathic treatments and Clinical Herbalism. He has conducted over 45,000 consultations on a variety of medical conditions with clients from all over Australia. He is one of Western Australia’s most dedicated and committed naturopaths.

Want to get to Darren Grech Natural Medicine Clinic by bus or train? Moovit makes it easy to find the best way to get there. All you need to do is add your destination, and Moovit will provide step-by-step directions to your location. This is why over 1.5 million users, including riders in Redcliffe, trust Moovit as their all-in-one transit app.

[dannyslittlecave]

Understanding the NDIS

Comprehensive Support for Australians with Disabilities

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is a transformative initiative by the Australian government, designed to provide support and services to individuals with disabilities. Launched in 2013, the NDIS aims to enhance the quality of life for people with disabilities by offering personalized funding and resources tailored to their unique needs. By fostering greater independence and community participation, the NDIS represents a significant shift towards a more inclusive society.

What is the NDIS?

The NDIS is a federally funded scheme that provides financial assistance and services to Australians under 65 who have a permanent and significant disability. It operates on the principle of individualized funding, meaning that participants receive tailored support packages based on their specific goals, needs, and circumstances. This approach ensures that individuals have greater control over the services and supports they receive, empowering them to live more independent and fulfilling lives.

Services Provided by the NDIS

The NDIS offers a wide range of services designed to support various aspects of life for individuals with disabilities. These services can be broadly categorized into several key areas:

1. Daily Living and Independence

Personal Care Assistance: Support with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, eating, and grooming.

Household Tasks: Assistance with domestic chores like cleaning, cooking, laundry, and home maintenance.

Transport: Services to help participants travel to work, school, or community activities, including specialized transport arrangements.

Assistive Technology: Provision of equipment and devices to enhance mobility, communication, and daily living skills, such as wheelchairs, hearing aids, and communication devices.

2. Health and Wellbeing

Therapeutic Supports: Access to therapies such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and psychological services to improve functional capacity and overall wellbeing.

Nursing Services: In-home nursing care for medical needs and chronic conditions management.

Dietitian and Nutrition Support: Guidance and planning to manage dietary needs and promote healthy eating habits.

3. Social and Community Participation

Community Engagement: Programs and activities designed to foster social inclusion and community involvement, such as recreational activities, group outings, and community events.

Skill Development Programs: Training and support to build social, communication, and interpersonal skills to enhance community participation.

4. Education and Employment

Education Support: Assistance with school-related needs, including tutoring, specialized educational programs, and support within educational settings.

Employment Services: Job training, career counseling, and support for finding and maintaining employment, including workplace modifications and employer liaison services.

5. Home Modifications and Support

Home Modifications: Funding for structural changes to the home environment to improve accessibility and safety, such as installing ramps, grab rails, and modifying bathrooms.

Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA): Support for individuals requiring specialized housing solutions that cater to their complex needs.

6. Coordination of Supports

Support Coordination: Assistance in navigating the NDIS system, understanding and implementing the NDIS plan, connecting with service providers, and managing services effectively.

Plan Management: Financial management of NDIS funds, including paying providers, tracking expenses, and ensuring compliance with NDIS requirements.

How to Access NDIS Services

To access NDIS services, individuals must meet specific eligibility criteria, including age, residency, and disability requirements. The process involves the following steps:

Eligibility Check: Assessing whether the individual meets the NDIS eligibility criteria.

Application: Submitting an application to the NDIS, including relevant medical and disability information.

Planning Meeting: Working with an NDIS planner to develop a personalized plan based on the individual's goals and needs.

Plan Approval: Receiving an approved NDIS plan outlining the funded supports and services.

Implementation: Accessing and managing the funded supports and services through chosen providers.

Conclusion

The NDIS represents a landmark shift in how disability services are delivered in Australia, focusing on individualized support and empowerment. By offering a comprehensive range of services across various domains of life, the NDIS aims to enable individuals with disabilities to achieve their goals, enhance their independence, and participate more fully in their communities. Through the NDIS, Australia is making significant strides towards a more inclusive and equitable society for all its citizens.

[greensmedicalgroup]

As an Independent Accredited Provider of the Australian Government’s Hearing Services Program (HSP), our audiologist provides: https://greensmedicalgroup.com.au/audiology/

[rediscoverhearing]

Free Hearing Tests Perth

Your hearing is important, especially when you’re engaged in daily activities with family and friends. A hearing test will help you see how your hearing is progressing so that you can decide if hearing aids are right for you.

There are a number of different kinds of hearing tests, and the type that you need will depend on the cause of your hearing loss. You can perform a few simple online tests to see how your hearing is going, but if you have specific questions or concerns it’s best to visit a qualified audiologist who can help you understand the results and recommend the next steps.

A comprehensive free hearing tests Perth assessment will be able to pinpoint the cause of your loss and determine the type and severity of hearing damage. It will also provide all the information an audiologist needs to make recommendations about hearing aids.

If you have a hearing loss that was caused by an illness or injury, you may be eligible for subsidised hearing services through the government’s Hearing Services Program. You can find out if you are eligible by visiting healthdirect’s service finder. You can also speak to your GP or an ear, nose and throat specialist about getting a referral for a full hearing assessment.

The online frequency hearing test is a good option for people who want to get an idea of how their hearing is going, but don’t have the time or money to invest in a comprehensive test. This test will require you to select words or tones that appear on a screen in front of you, and is designed to measure your ability to hear frequencies between 500 and 8000Hz. The test takes between two and four minutes and can be completed using headphones or your computer’s speakers.

The Know Your Noise hearing screening is a brief online test that checks your ability to detect sounds in noisy environments. It will use a microphone to test your ability to hear sound in each ear, and you can complete the test with a pair of headphones or your computer’s speakers. The test will ask you to click a button every time you hear a tone, which can be repeated in both ears or just one.

An otoscopic inspection of your ear canals is another quick and easy way to check for a hearing loss. It’s typically done in response to a referral from your doctor and involves a quick look at the ear canal and a shortened Air Conduction Tone Test.

The Lions Hearing Clinic is committed to helping you improve your hearing and enjoy the sounds around you and conversations with loved ones. Enter your suburb or postcode to find the nearest clinic, and book a free hearing test with an audiologist today. You can also request a free trial hearing aid, with most reputable Australian hearing clinics offering a 60-day satisfaction guarantee. They can even offer a 90-day money back guarantee, depending on the brand of hearing aid you choose.

Rediscover Hearing the Joy of Hearing with Your local & WA owned Independent Audiologists. Your local Hearing Aid and Tinnitus Specialists. Combined experience of 38 years.

[just4care]

NDIS Services For People With Disability

The NDIS services Perth provides people with disability with the support they need to live the life they want. This includes access to early intervention supports and other disability services.

To be eligible, you must have a permanent and significant disability and be under 65 years old. You may also be able to get support from the Commonwealth.

Psychosocial disability

Psychosocial disability is a condition that affects the way people think and perceive the world around them. This can cause difficulties in establishing goals, navigating appointments and tasks, engaging in education/training or employment and living in the community.

According to the 2018 SDAC data, 4.6% of Australians have a psychosocial disability. This is the third largest primary disability group. This is mostly seen amongst those aged 45-64 years.

Ark supports NDIS participants with a psychosocial disability through a holistic approach to support. This includes a recovery coaching service that helps participants develop their own personalised plan to achieve their goals and aspirations. This will also involve developing a connection with other services in their local area. This is done through a partnership with their NDIS planner.

Physical disability

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is a government-funded support program that gives Australians living with permanent and significant disability the freedom to live their lives to the fullest. The NDIS provides a variety of disability support services for participants, including attendant care, centre-based activities and community and home modifications.

People with physical disabilities often require mobility aids such as a prosthesis, orthoses or walker. They can also have a range of health conditions that affect movement, such as cerebral palsy, Friedreich’s ataxia, arthritis or muscular dystrophy. When preparing for your NDIS plan review, it’s important to understand your rights, set measurable goals, and gather any relevant documentation. By following these top tips, you can ensure your NDIS plan meets both your current and future needs.

Intellectual disability

Intellectual disability is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects a person’s ability to learn and adapt to their surroundings. It may cause difficulty with concentration, memory, language, perception and problem-solving. It’s important to note that it is no longer a standard to classify a person with intellectual disability only based on their IQ score. Instead, a person’s adaptive function is also considered.

Depending on the severity of their condition, people with intellectual disability might have mild to severe disabilities. In addition to cognitive difficulties, they might have co-existing problems with vision and hearing.

If you’re interested in receiving NDIS support services, contact your local LAC or ECEI Partner to determine if you are eligible for the scheme. They’ll help you make an access request. They’ll also help you develop your goals and create a plan that will meet your needs.

Developmental disability

If you have a permanent and significant disability, you may be eligible for NDIS support services. These are services designed to restore hope and support recovery. The NDIS program supports people with physical, intellectual, developmental and psychosocial disabilities. The NDIS is the Australian Government’s way of supporting those with a disability.

Developmental disabilities are lifelong problems that affect mental and physical abilities. They can be caused by genetic or chromosomal anomalies, as well as prenatal exposure to substances such as alcohol or drugs.

People with developmental disabilities can get started with the NDIS by contacting their Local Area Coordinator Partner. They will explain the NDIS and confirm eligibility. They can also help you create a plan that meets your goals and needs. They can also provide you with information about other government and community supports.

Mental health

Mental health is a common condition that can affect anyone. It can have a significant impact on the way we live our lives and our ability to function. Those with psychosocial disabilities can qualify for the NDIS, which can provide them with the support they need to overcome their challenges.

NDIS psychosocial disability services focus on skill development, empowering individuals with the tools they need to manage their condition effectively. These programs encourage social interaction, fostering resilience and independence. They also promote the importance of community involvement.

NDIS psychosocial support services are available across Perth, Australia. They can help people with psychosocial disabilities overcome their challenges and live a fulfilling life. They can even assist them to find the right housing options. In addition, they can help them build a strong network of care and support.

[dabbamallangyirren]

Disability Services Australia

Disability support services can be crucial to people living with a disability. To find the right disability service provider, visit the Disability Gateway website.

National policy review needs to go beyond indirect 'good will' statements and invest in a mix of direct measures, as informed by international experiences. This includes quotas and wage subsidies, combined with disability service legislation reform. To know more about Disability Services, visit the Dabba Mallangyirren website or call 0403856995.

A range of government and non-government organisations manage a broad range of programs, services, benefits, payments and grants for people with disability. These include the National Disability Insurance Scheme, which is an individualised funding plan for those with significant and ongoing disability.

The NDIS can connect you with community and other government disability services in your area. You can also contact the National Disability Gateway to find out more about the NDIS and how it works in your state or territory.

Many disability organisations run local support groups and self advocacy networks to help people with their disability, their family, friends and carers. You can join a group through an online disability forum or by calling or visiting the organisation that supports you. You may be eligible for NDIS funding to help pay for a range of disability services, including physiotherapy, occupational therapy and speech pathology. You can also get help with housing, access to a car or assistive technology.

The NDIS is a goals-based program that can help Australian citizens, permanent residents or protected special category visa holders with permanent and significant disability. It can cover a wide range of supports, including support workers and equipment. The NDIS can also provide funding for things like access to specialist support coordination, community connections and holidays.

The Australian Government is committed to improving the NDIS. In addition to this, it has committed to developing a NDIS participant service guarantee. This will set clear, agreed timeframes for participants to receive a decision on their eligibility and to receive their plan.

In addition, the NDIS can help people with disabilities access Auslan interpreting and translation services to connect with their local community. This can be particularly helpful for people who are deaf or have hearing impairments. The NDIS can also provide funding for assistive technology, which is designed to increase the ease and safety of doing daily activities.

State and Territory governments play a major role in providing mainstream services like health, education, justice and transport and work to ensure these are disability inclusive. Many have their own disability plans in place or are working to develop them and they can also provide connections to the NDIS. Local governments (commonly known as councils) are also responsible for services used by everyone including those who have a disability.

The ANAO met with national and State offices of FaCS; representatives of advocacy groups; peak national and State bodies representing the interests of disability service providers and people with disability; and members of State Disability Advisory Bodies funded by FaCS. ANAO also reviewed documentation and held consultations with relevant Australian Government agencies and State and Territory governments.

The ANAO recommends that FaCS, as part of future disability funding agreements, improve its coordination and awareness of activities undertaken by DABs. This should include requiring State and Territory governments to detail, as part of their annual financial acquittal process, how their share of the funding is being used for DAB activities.

People with disability can access a variety of services to help them live independently and enjoy their community. These services can include specialist disability support, respite care, day programs and employment assistance. These services are funded by the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).

NDS works with disability service providers to develop their capability, be innovative and work in partnership with their customers. NDS has offices in every state and territory.

If you have a disability, ask your local NDIS representative or contact the Disability Gateway to find out more about the services available in your area. You can also get information and help from child and parental disability advocacy groups such as CYDA and Family Voices Australia.

Businesses can also help people with disability by supporting them in the workplace, including through training and development programs. They can also participate in business-to-business groups focused on disability employment, such as a state or local Disability:IN affiliate or a regional industry-focused group. To know more about Disability Services, visit the Dabba Mallangyirren website or call 0403856995.

[personalisedsupports]

Disability Support Services in Melbourne

Disability services can include supported accommodation, respite care, day programs and employment assistance. These services can help people with disabilities live independently and enjoy their lives. They can also provide support for carers and their families.

The key is in data – in particular linking existing databases to create the best possible picture of the needs and experiences of people with disabilities. This is an essential step to ensuring that the NDIS is effective and responsive.

Mobility Allowance

If you have a disability and are unable to use public transport, the Mobility Allowance could help. This payment is designed to cover travel costs for paid or voluntary work, study, training or looking for a job. To find out if you’re eligible, visit the Services Australia website. You can also get this information in other languages by calling the Centrelink multilingual line. To apply for this allowance, you’ll need to create a myGov account and link it to your disability support services Melbourne.

If you’re receiving Disability Living Allowance, the Government has started replacing it with Personal Independence Payment (PIP). If you have a permanent and significant disability, you can continue to receive DLA until the Department for Communities writes to say that your award will end or you’ll be reassessed for PIP. You can then choose to transfer your DLA over to PIP. In some areas, the local health office will conduct a review hearing where an independent Senior Medical Officer will meet you and consider your case.

The National Disability Insurance Scheme

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is a government-funded initiative that helps individuals with disabilities pay for services and equipment. It is one of the most important social reforms in Australian history and provides choice and control for its recipients. The NDIS uses proactive insurance principles to manage its long-term financial sustainability.

The NDIS began in July 2013 and replaced the Disability Support Pension (DSP). The NDIS aims to help people with disability achieve their goals.

For example, a person with a spinal cord injury can get the equipment they need to live independently and access to community and employment opportunities. The NDIS can also help them get more involved in their communities and build a network of supports.

A local area coordinator will help you understand the NDIS and how it can work for you. You can find your Local Area Coordinator by contacting the NDIA. The

Brotherhood of St Laurence, for example, is the Local Area Coordination Partner for the Hume Moreland, Bayside Peninsula, Brimbank Melton, and Western Melbourne Service Areas.

Carer Payment

A disability support workers can help individuals with disabilities to build confidence, improve their life skills and engage with the community. They can also offer support services like meal preparation, laundry and home cleaning. They can even assist with personal care and medication management.

The Carer Payment provides financial help for people who provide full-time daily care to someone with a severe disability, medical condition or who is frail aged. A person must be receiving a Disability Support Pension to be eligible for the Carer Payment, and it is income and asset tested.

Other disability related financial support services include the Companion Card, which offers discounts from businesses and government organisations and free public transport on Sundays, and the Disability, Sickness and Carer Allowance. These are all available via Centrelink and Services Australia, which can be accessed through myGov and the websites of both organisations. For more information on these and other allowances, visit the Disability, Sickness and Carer page on the myGov website.

Disability Employment Services

DES helps individuals with disabilities find and maintain employment. It also helps them develop the skills necessary to find a job that is meaningful to them. In addition, DES helps individuals build their self-esteem and independence. Moreover, it promotes equality and diversity in the workplace. This is important because it helps to break down stereotypes and encourages employers to view disability as a part of the workforce rather than an obstacle.

Currently, DES services are offered by a range of organisations that are contracted by the government to support job seekers with disabilities. These organisations are called DES providers and are a mix of large, medium, and small for-profit and notfor-profit businesses. The DES providers have responded quickly to the 2018 reform changes improving financial incentives, but there is little evidence that they have led to improved employment outcomes for participants.

NOVA is one of the leading DES providers in Australia and can connect people with disability with jobs that suit them. We offer a free service to both employers and job seekers. Our aim is to match individuals with disabilities with employers who embrace diversity and provide the right support at work.

[hearingbuddyemm]

Australian Government Hearing Services Program

The Australian Government Hearing Services Program offers one of the most progressive hearing services programmes in the world. Our government recognises the personal, social, and financial costs associated with hearing loss and has established a programme to ensure that eligible seniors, pensioners, and veterans can have access to a range of hearing services.

[freedomaus]

Get Access to Latest Hearing Aids Technology. Freedom Hearing Offers Personalised & Expert Hearing Healthcare. We Accept Patients With or Without Private Healthcare. Book a Free Hearing Check.

Visit: https://freedomhearing.com.au/

[hearingbuddy]

Australian Government Hearing Services Program

The Australian Government Hearing Services Program offers one of the most progressive hearing services programmes in the world. Our government recognises the personal, social, and financial costs associated with hearing loss and has established a programme to ensure that eligible seniors, pensioners, and veterans can have access to a range of hearing services.

[amakedcare]

Disability Services in Melbourne

Until recently, people with disability were unable to find reliable information about the services available to them. This was causing many people to feel powerless and not confident in their ability to receive the support they needed.

Inspired by travel-related websites like Trip Advisor, two Australians launched a website that allows consumers to review and rate Melbourne disability services. Their site is called Clickability and it’s now being rolled out across Australia.

University of Melbourne

Founded in 1853, the University of Melbourne is one of Australia's leading research universities and a key cultural institution for metropolitan Melbourne. Located in the Parkville and Southbank precincts, its campuses are a haven of learning and research for all disciplines.

The University is committed to ensuring that everyone has the same opportunities to study, work and lead a fulfilling life. This commitment is reflected in the Diversity and Inclusion Strategy 2030.

As part of this, the University is actively engaged in research on disability issues and the needs of people with disability and their carers. Its researchers are conducting a range of research projects on such topics as economic participation and employment, social policy, disability, the NDIS and disability-led innovation.

The University's Disability Institute is a research institute that supports collaborative, interdisciplinary research that helps build the evidence base to guide social and disability policy reforms and advance opportunity and equity for people with disabilities. Its work is being led by Professor Anne Kavanagh (School of Social and Political Sciences) and Associate Professor Bruce Bonyhady.

NDIS

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is an Australian Government initiative that gives people with a disability more choice and control over their life. It enables individuals with a disability to receive the supports they need through funding packages that are tailored to their individual needs and goals.

The NDIS provides support for children and adults with a disability, including hearing impairment. It also offers support for those with psychosocial disabilities and for those who are experiencing mental health issues.

Under the NDIS, people with a permanent and significant disability can receive full funding for their disability-related support needs. These include medical equipment, services and supports to assist with everyday activities.

NDIS funding is separate from the Disability Support Pension and Medicare, Australia’s universal health care system. This means that the NDIS doesn’t fund services like hospital visits or long-term care, but rather supports that improve an individual’s daily living.

The NDIS has Partners in the Community that can help with access and evidence forms, as well as link you with other supports. GPs are encouraged to refer their patients to the NDIS for assistance and information regarding accessing the scheme.

Disability Gateway

The Disability Gateway is a free, Australia-wide service that will help you find information and services. It includes a website, 1800 phone line and social media channels.

The site offers a number of different ways to search for disability information and services including National and State or Territory funded programs. It is a simple and straightforward pathway to get up to date, relevant and useful information about community programs in your area.

There are also options to hear disability information in your preferred language with the use of Readspeaker. To find out more about this click here.

The Disability Gateway was announced in May 2019 as part of the Coalition government’s election plan for people with disability, and it is now officially launched. It consists of a phone line and website managed by the Benevolent Society, as well as a COVID hotline. But many are worried that the launch of this service may put further strain on already-strained independent advocacy services.

JobAccess

The Australian Government’s main initiative to support the employment of people with disability is JobAccess. It includes a website and free phone service that provides information to jobseekers, employers and service providers.

A new research review by JobAccess shows that businesses that employ people with disability grow their profits four times faster than those that don’t. They also have employees who stay on the job longer, are safer in the workplace and have fewer accidents.

Despite these positive findings, employers are often not aware that they can make affordable and effective workplace adjustments. They have a myth that these adjustments are difficult to organise and can be expensive, says JobAccess General Manager Daniel Valiente-Riedl.

A DES provider is an organisation that provides support to jobseekers who have a disability, injury or health condition, and their employers, to prepare for, find and keep a job. They can offer industry-specific training, resume and interview skills, interpreting services, workplace modifications, employer support and more.

[wafiiservices]

Allied Health Services in the areas of healthcare

Allied Health is a word used to describe the vast array of non-physician and non-nursing health workers.

The goal of allied health professionals is to prevent, diagnose, and treat a variety of diseases and ailments, and they often work as part of a multidisciplinary health team to optimize patient outcomes.

Although allied health professionals are pervasive in almost all areas of healthcare, they are particularly prevalent in the areas of elderly care, chronic illness, disability, mental health, exercise and sport, rehabilitative care, and musculoskeletal health.

Allied health professionals operate in several contexts, including but not limited to the following:

Hospitals Private practice

Community medical centers

Psychiatric services

Nursing homes

Universities \Schools

FEATURED JOBS

Paediatrics Emergency SMO Consultant Omega Medical Pty Ltd

Omega Medical Pty Ltd., Emergency PHO, is a provider of urgent care services.

Urology Staff Specialist at Omega Medical Pty Ltd Omega Medical Pty Ltd

Nearly a third of the Australian health workforce is comprised of allied health professionals. In 2017/18, more than 183,000 allied health professionals registered with APHRA, a 3.5% rise from 2016/17, and the sector continues to enjoy rapid expansion.

Numerous occupations are categorised as Allied Health, including, but not limited to, the following:

Audiologist - Evaluation, prevention, and treatment of hearing and balance impairments.

Chiropractors diagnose and treat musculoskeletal physiological and mechanical diseases.

Dietitian - Advises patients on diet for health, weight control, and certain medical problems.

Focuses on the treatment and rehabilitation of injuries, chronic illness, and disability via exercise.

Professionals in Medical Imaging - Including radiographers, sonographers, and radiologists.

Assist persons with sickness or disability in developing or maintaining daily life and occupational abilities.

Osteopath - Treats and prevents damage by manipulation of the musculoskeletal system.

Orthotists prescribe, create, and fit orthoses and other devices to help in mobility and rehabilitation, correct deformities, and alleviate pain.

Perfusionist - Operates a variety of equipment to monitor a patient's physiological condition during surgery (and in the ICU).

Prepare, distribute, and produce medications while advising on their proper usage. Pharmacists are also capable of doing research.

Focuses on the identification, treatment, and prevention of movement disorders and injuries.

Podiatrist — Treats foot and lower limb disorders.

Psychologists study, diagnose, and assess mental and behavioral processes.

Societal Worker - Assists individuals in resolving personal and social problems via counseling, community involvement, advocacy, and different programs.

Speech Pathologist - Evaluate and treat individuals with communication impairments. Speech pathologists may also assist people with swallowing difficulties.

Availability of Allied Health services

As allied health professionals provide a vast array of health services to Australians, there are several circumstances in which you may want their assistance.

A patient with private health insurance may access several allied health treatments without a referral. Nevertheless, certain government-funded programs and services may need a reference from a primary care physician.

The following initiatives and schemes may help individuals with the expense of getting allied health services:

Medicare Department of Veteran Affairs (DVA) Private health insurance

My Elderly Care

Education

Due to the diversity of this category of professionals, the training requirements vary considerably, however the majority of occupations in Australia need postsecondary education. Some Allied Health occupations are more specialized than others and may need substantial training, such as postgraduate studies and continuous professional development (CPD) (continuing professional development).

Once certified, many allied health practitioners join Allied Health Professions Australia (AHPA). As a nationally recognized body, AHPA works diligently to promote, assist, and advocate for Australian allied health professionals.

To practice in Australia, almost all allied health practitioners must be registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).

[caredirectdisability]

Disability Services in Brisbane

If you’re living with disability, there are plenty of ways to access support. One way is through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).

The NDIS gives people with disability and their families a greater level of autonomy. It also allows them to choose the services that suit their needs best Brisbane disability services.

Aged and Disability Advocacy Australia (ADA Australia)

ADA Australia provides free and independent information, education and client directed advocacy services to older people and persons with disability across Queensland. They can assist with individual advocacy regarding Qld Community Care Services and Commonwealth funded aged care, including assistance to express their views at QCAT hearings in relation to guardianship, administration and enduring powers of attorney issues.

They also provide Citizen Advocacy and Vantage Point advocacy support to clients with disabilities in Rockhampton, Longreach, Barcaldine, Banana, Central Queensland, Diamantina, Gladstone, Winton, Blackall and Livingstone LGAs.

The ADA Australia advocacy team is concerned that the new National Aged Care Advocacy Framework (NACAP) may limit state based advocacy services’ ability to advocate for adults where there are concerns of elder abuse, specifically as a result of the introduction of a reportable incident definition under the scheme. The ADA Australia advocates would therefore support a broader scope of the'reportable incident' definition to include elder abuse, specifically confirmed cases of fraud and financial abuse and neglect/ill treatment by approved providers.

PWDA

PWDA (People with Disability Australia) is a national peak disability rights and advocacy organisation. It has a cross-disability focus representing the interests of people with disability, their families and carers.

The organisation’s work covers a range of areas including policy development and support for members and the disability community at large, and campaigns. It also delivers education and training across a variety of platforms, from in-person events to virtual learning series.

Queenslanders with Disability Network and People With Disability Australia have endorsed an open letter calling for a new approach and more resources for disaster preparedness, resilience and recovery for Australians with disability before, during and after a disaster or emergency.

The letter calls for disability inclusive disaster planning, programs and services that will better prioritise the needs of people with disability in floods, bushfires, cyclones, droughts and pandemics. It also calls for increased funding for multi-sector targeted responses underpinned by collaborative and inclusive research.

AMPARO Advocacy

If you are a person from a Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) background who has a disability, you can get help from AMPARO Advocacy. They can help you understand your rights, make informed decisions and speak up about what is important to you.

AMPARO provides advocacy services to people with disability from CALO backgrounds across Queensland. They are a non-profit organisation and receive funding from the Department of Communities Child Safety and Disability Services.

They also provide systemic advocacy on behalf of vulnerable individuals from CALO backgrounds with disability. They are governed by a voluntary management committee the majority of which are people from a culturally and linguistically diverse background with disability.

Citizen Advocacy is a concept that is focused on establishing and supporting one-toone relationships between a person who has a disability, who is vulnerable and has unmet needs in important areas of their life, and an everyday citizen who is competent, resourceful and principled.

SUFY

SUFY is an award winning, not for profit organisation that operates in the Brisbane ndis registered providers and Moreton Bay regions. Its flagship program is the NDIS Appeals scheme, but it also has a strong research and development focus with respect to assistive technology, evidence based practice and enhancing independence for people with disability.

Its most prestigious position is Manager of Social Advocacy, the person tasked with championing SUFY’s mission of transforming lives and building a more inclusive and equal society for people with disabilities. To this end, SUFY has an impressive list of laudable achievements including the aforementioned NDIS et al.

The organisation has a proud heritage of social advocacy, particularly in the area of evidence based practice, and an unwavering commitment to providing a good ol’ fashion service that meets the needs of its clients with the highest possible degree of integrity. For a detailed list of the organisation’s achievements, please visit its website. The website is powered by a state-of-the-art database of over 15,000 clients, with some information available in the client’s own language.