Menu
While February is the shortest month of the year, that doesn’t mean less happens. This month, we have a story about our coolest participant and an introduction to our Behaviour Support Practitioners.
We also have some photos from last month’s newsletter challenge and some kind words from one of our amazing participants.
February is most notable for two things: having an inconsistent number of days and Valentine’s Day.
That’s why this month we want to hear about something you love. It doesn’t have to be romantic love; it can be love for a family member, a furry friend, a hobby, or even a particular NDIS provider prevalent in your life.
Just reply to this email with your love note, which might be featured in next month’s newsletter. We can’t wait to hear from you.
Marie is one of our fantastic participants who has an exceptional talent for making all things craft. From handmade bags to plush lions, she even has hand-painted artwork. Her craft skills form the backbone of the business she started, named “Made by Cool Marie,” where she takes her talent and passion from making these adorable artworks and selling them to the public.
Our organisation is proud to have a team of dedicated Behaviour Support Practitioners who bring a wealth of experience, passion, and innovation to their roles. Let’s meet some practitioners and learn more about their journeys and motivations.
While being connected online is often good, sometimes it can become overwhelming; the constant notifications and endless flow of information can seem daunting and inescapable. That’s why this month, we encourage you to try and work a digital detox into your routine. Here is how to start:
Set boundaries:
Set specific times of the day to be device-free, such as during meals or an hour before bed.
Create tech-free zones:
Make areas of your home free of devices, such as the bedroom or dining area.
Engage in offline activities:
Enjoy non-digital activities like reading a book, walking, or spending time with friends and family.
Use technology mindfully:
When you do use technology, be more intentional with its use. Focus on activities that add value to your life and avoid mindlessly scrolling through social media.
Reflect and Rest:
Take time to reflect on how your current digital habits impact your well-being; if you find that certain things you do affect you negatively, try to correct your behaviour to avoid the negativity.
By practising a digital detox, you can improve mental clarity, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being.
Self-Direction Registration Consultation has closed – We put forward our submission in response to this consultation paper.
Some background:
In December 2023, the Independent Review of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS Review) recommended that the Australian Government develop a risk-proportionate model for regulating all providers and workers in the NDIS.
To achieve this, the government established the NDIS Provider and Worker Registration Taskforce in February 2024. The Taskforce has provided expert advice on the new regulatory model, and their recommendations were released on 2 August 2024.
The focus now is on the Taskforce’s recommendations for participants who self-direct their supports. This new model aims to uphold their rights while ensuring visibility to the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission (NDIS Commission).
Consultation with the disability community is vital for the government’s decision-making. Your input during this period will help shape the new regulatory model based on how you use your supports.
There will be further opportunities to engage in consultations, including discussions on the definition of a provider. Stay updated by signing up for DSS Engage.
We will upload our submission to the Inclusion Tree website to view after the consultation and review has concluded.
Mandatory registration consultation – Support Coordination and platform providers. This is due on the 7th March 2025, and we will be submitting our views in response to the consultation.
On 16 September 2024, Minister for Government Services and the NDIS, Hon Bill Shorten MP, announced that the registration of all platform providers, supported independent living (SIL), and support coordinators is a priority. This aims to strengthen the quality and safety of supports. No changes or transition to mandatory registration will happen before 1 July 2025.
Platform Providers: Your Input Needed
The consultation seeks feedback on:
This builds on extensive engagement with participants, workers, and platform providers during the Own Motion Inquiry.
You can access the consultation information and submit your own views by clicking the bellow button:
In 1988, Gallaudet University in Washington, D.C., the world’s only university designed specifically for deaf and hard-of-hearing students, made history with the “Deaf President Now” movement. The university had been led by hearing presidents for years, but students, faculty, and staff felt it was time for a deaf president.
The protest lasted eight days, during which the campus was shut down. The movement succeeded, and I. King Jordan became the first deaf president of Gallaudet University. This was a pivotal moment in the fight for deaf rights and empowerment, demonstrating the power of advocacy and community solidarity.
We acknowledge the connections of First Nations People of Australia to the land, sea and community on which we live and work. As custodians of this sacred land we respect and acknowledge Elders, past, present and emerging.