The Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) in partnership with the state sports institutes and academies, Paralympics Australia and over 40 sports have joined forces to conduct their greatest ever talent search to identify the next generation of Olympic and Paralympic athletes.

Over the coming weeks, Paralympic Talent Search testing sessions will be running in ACT, VIC, SA and QLD in search for the next wave of future Paralympic athletes.

They are looking for individuals of all abilities aged 13+ years to register for this program via the AIS website:

https://www.ausport.gov.au/talent

No previous sporting experience is required – the talent search is designed to help guide individuals towards a sport they may be best suited to.

Please note that consent from a parent or guardian is required for individuals under 18 years of age.

Once registered via the above link, individuals will be invited to a Paralympic Talent Search testing session in their state.

Athletes who demonstrate potential for a particular sport will be offered the opportunity to attend a Talent Development Phase in that sport.

Paralympic Talent Search testing sessions:

• ACT: 30 November, Australian Institute of Sport, Bruce
• VIC: 1 December, Melbourne Sports & Aquatics Centre, Albert Park.
• SA: 7 December, South Australian Sports Institute, Mile End
• QLD: 8 December, Sleeman Complex, Chandler.

For further information or questions please email: futuregreenandgold@ausport.gov.au.

Australian Federation Of Disability Organisations (AFDO) is supporting an important research initiative led by the Centre for Technology Infusion at La Trobe University. This study aims to enhance level crossing safety by exploring how time-to-cross information can be delivered to better inform pedestrians with disability.

This study will:

• * Assess the need for time-to-cross information.
• * Determine what information is most helpful.
• * Identify the best ways to deliver this information.

This research is part of a larger feasibility study on using real-time train location data to improve crossing safety.

To learn more, go to https://imoveaustralia.com/project/using-real-time-train-data-to-improve-level-crossing-safety/

How to Participate

Victorians with physical or sensory disability are invited to take part in an online questionnaire (approx. 5 mins) on level crossing experiences, including:

• * Crossing behaviour and perceived safety
• * Use of assistive technology
• * Information needs for safe crossing decisions

This survey will also serve as a pre-screening for potential face-to-face interviews at a familiar train station.

Interview participants will have the opportunity to share detailed insights on improving crossing safety.

Data Use & Privacy

Your participation is voluntary and privacy is respected. No personally identifiable information will be collected. All participants will be asked to sign a consent form before participating.

Selection Criteria To participate, you should:

• Have lived experience with physical or sensory disability
• Be over 18 and make independent decisions
• Use level crossings at least once a month

Register Your Interest

If you’re interested in contributing to this meaningful project, please email Jim.Valavanis@afdo.org.au with a brief background and your contact details.

Deadline for Expressions of Interest: Friday, 15 November 2024, 5 pm

Let’s work together to make crossings safer for everyone!

AFDO – Australian Federation Of Disability Organisations is conducting a survey to gather feedback on the employment experiences of people with disability.

Your input will help to advocate for better policies and services to increase employment opportunities for people with disability across Australia.

The survey takes 10-15 minutes and is open until 19 November 2024.

To take part in this survey, go to:

https://us10.list-manage.com/survey?u=a56e874cd0bbf97085d908efa&id=896928d5a9&e=%7CUNIQID%7C

PAID OPPORTUNITY

Australian Federation Of Disability Organisations (AFDO) has launched a new Augmented Reality (AR) Peer Success Story Project in partnership with CreativiTek.

Showcasing the stories of Australians with disability, this project will focus on independence, confidence, and self-advocacy.

To ensure a wide representation, they’re interested in hearing from:

• * People with disability from rural and remote areas
• * Women with disability
• * Culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) individuals with disability
• * LGBTIQA+ individuals with disability
• * Other individuals with disability who have an inspiring story to share and empower their peers.

If you have a story to share, you’re encouraged to submit a short expression of interest by 15th of November 2024 to jim.valavanis@afdo.org.au

Selected participants will collaborate in shaping an immersive 2D/3D mobile augmented reality experience that best reflects their story, creating an engaging and inspiring experience for viewers.

Participants will be paid for their time and contribution. This AR project is a unique way to raise awareness and highlight the achievements of the disability community.

Your input is vital to making sure that Government gets the NDIS right moving forwards.

You can be part of the conversation – either online or at an in-person event.

You can read more about Foundational Supports and how you can contribute to the conversation, by going to:

www.engage.dss.gov.au/Foundational-Supports/

Online consultation dates are still available on the below dates, but you must register by clicking on the link:

https://events.humanitix.com/online-roundtable-general-foundational-supports

Online Consultations:

• Monday 4th November – 12pm to 2:30pm AEDT
• Tuesday 19th November- 12pm to 2:30pm AEDT

Registrations are limited. If the event you want to attend is ‘sold out’ you may register for the wait list via the above Humanitix link.

Upcoming in-person events:

• VIC – Shepparton – 22 October – Open workshop – General Supports 10am-12.30pm https://events.humanitix.com/open-workshop-general-supports-shepparton
• VIC – Shepparton – 22 October- Roundtable conversations – People with disability 1.30pm-3.30pm https://events.humanitix.com/roundtable-conversation-people-with-disability-shepparton
• VIC – Melbourne – 24 October – Open workshop – General Supports 10am-12.30pm https://events.humanitix.com/open-workshop-general-supports-melbourne
• VIC – Melbourne – 24 October – Roundtable conversations – People with disability 1.30pm-3.30pm https://events.humanitix.com/roundtable-conversation-people-with-disability-melbourne
• ACT – Canberra – 22 October – Open workshop – General Supports 10.00am-12.30pm https://events.humanitix.com/open-workshop-general-supports-canberra
• ACT – Canberra – 22 October – Roundtable conversation – People with disability 1.30pm-3.30pm https://events.humanitix.com/roundtable-conversation-people-with-disability-port-canberra
• NSW – Armidale – 29 October – Open workshop – General Supports 10am-12.30pm https://events.humanitix.com/open-workshop-general-supports-armidale
• NSW – Armidale – 29 October – Roundtable conversations – People with disability 1.30pm-3.30pm https://events.humanitix.com/roundtable-conversation-people-with-disability-armidale
• NSW – Western Sydney – 30 October – Roundtable conversation – People with disability 1.30pm-3.30pm https://events.humanitix.com/roundtable-conversation-people-with-disability-western-sydney
• NSW – Sydney – 31 October – Open workshop – General Supports 10am-12.30pm https://events.humanitix.com/open-workshop-general-supports-sydney
• NSW – Sydney – 31 October – Roundtable conversations – People with disability 1.30pm-3.30pm https://events.humanitix.com/roundtable-conversation-people-with-disability-sydney
• NT – Alice Springs – 29 October – Open workshop – General Supports 10am-12.30pm https://events.humanitix.com/open-workshop-general-supports-alice-springs
• NT – Alice Springs – 29 October – Roundtable conversations – People with disability 1.30pm-3.30pm https://events.humanitix.com/roundtable-conversation-people-with-disability-alice-springs
• NT – Darwin – 31 October – Open workshop – General Supports 10am-12.30pm https://events.humanitix.com/open-workshop-general-supports-darwin
• NT – Darwin – 31 October – Roundtable conversations – People with disability 1.30pm-3.30pm https://events.humanitix.com/roundtable-conversation-people-with-disability-darwin
• QLD – Brisbane – 5 November – Open workshop – General supports 10.00am-12.30pm https://events.humanitix.com/open-workshop-general-supports-brisbane
• QLD – Brisbane – 5 November – Roundtable conversations – People with disability 1.30-3.30pm https://events.humanitix.com/roundtable-conversation-people-with-disability-brisbane
• QLD – Gympie – 7 November – Open workshop – General supports 10.00am-12.30pm https://events.humanitix.com/open-workshop-general-supports-gympie
• QLD – Gympie – 7 November – Roundtable conversations – People with disability 1:30-3:30pm https://events.humanitix.com/roundtable-conversation-people-with-disability-gympie
• WA – Perth – 11 November – Open workshop – General supports 10.00am-12:30pm https://events.humanitix.com/open-workshop-general-supports-perth
• WA – Perth – 11 November – Roundtable conversations – People with disability 1.30-3.30pm https://events.humanitix.com/roundtable-conversation-people-with-disability-perth
• WA – Bunbury – 12 November – Open workshop General Supports 10am-12.30pm https://events.humanitix.com/open-workshop-general-supports-bunbury
  *WA – Kimberley (Broome)- 13/14 November – Open workshop – General Supports 10am-12.30pm https://events.humanitix.com/copy-of-open-workshop-general-supports-kimberley-broome

Registrations are limited. If the event you want to attend is ‘sold out’ you may register for the wait list on Humanitix.

If you have any questions, please contact foundationalsupports@thesocialdeck.com.

Connecting employers and people with disability

Have you heard about WorkAbility Expos?

They’re an initiative funded by the Australian Government Department of Social Services and designed to help people with disabilities find meaningful employment.

Connecting employers and people with disability, these events are more than just job fairs. They provide supportive environments where people with disability can make meaningful connections and find resources to help them succeed on their employment journey.

So what can you expect at a WorkAbility Expo?

• * WorkAbility Consultation Lounge: Meet potential employers who believe in inclusivity and are eager to discover your talents.
• * Practical workshops: Participate in workshops to get you job-ready and provide advice on how to start your own business.
• * Support services: Support services to help you get into the workforce. From training organisations to dedicated service providers, we provide you the opportunity to find the help to support you on your employment journey.
• * Networking opportunities: You’ll have the chance to connect with employers who are committed to inclusive hiring practices and support services who are there to help you along the way.
• * Learn from your peers: You will get to meet people with disability who have started their own business or who are already in the workforce.
• * Workplace accommodations: Learn how to access workplace accommodations to ensure a safe and supportive work environment.
• * Resources: Lots of resources to help you find and keep a job.
• * Legal rights information: Knowledge about your rights in the workplace and how to advocate for yourself.
• * Funding information: Knowledge about what funding is available to support you in the workplace.

So when and where are these Workability Expos happening?

Brisbane, Melbourne, Geelong, Hunter & Gold Coast are all ‘integrated’ events, which means they are taking place at the same venue and time as our Disability Expos.

Brisbane Disability & WorkAbility Expo
Fri 1st & Sat 2nd November 2024
Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre

Melbourne Disability & WorkAbility Expo
Fri 22nd & Sat 23rd November 2024
Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre

Wollongong WorkAbility Expo
Tues 3rd December 2024
The Fraternity Club

Geelong Disability & WorkAbility Expo
Fri 14th & Sat 15th March 2025
Geelong Arena

Adelaide WorkAbility Expo
Tues 29th April 2025
Adelaide Showgrounds

Hunter Disability & WorkAbility Expo
Fri 9th & Sat 10th May 2025
Newcastle Entertainment Centre

Virtual WorkAbility Expo
Tues 20th May 2025

Gold Coast Disability & WorkAbility Expo
Fri 6th & Sat 7th June 2025
Coomera Indoor Sports Centre

Darwin WorkAbility Expo
Tues 17th June 2025
Territory Netball Stadium

Don’t miss this opportunity to take the next step in your employment journey.

Whether you’re looking for your first job, looking to advance in your career, or considering starting your own business, the WorkAbility Expo is the place to be.

Register by going to:

www.workabilityexpo.com.au/events/

A Virtual WorkAbility Expo will also be held on Tuesday 20th May 2025 for those unable to make it along to one of the WorkAbility Expos. Registration details for this Virtual Event will be released soon. Keep checking out www.workabilityexpo.com.au/events/ for updates.

Get paid to share your experiences.

Do you live in Queensland and use public transport?

Intopia is collaborating with a Queensland transport agency to gather feedback on new updates to their website.

As part of the process they’re looking to speak with people who:

• * currently, live in Queensland
• * use public transportation
• * have a cognitive disability or use a wheelchair or mobility scooter.

Participation will include a 30-minute tech check and a 60-minute user feedback session.

• * 30-minute tech check: Tues 15th to Thurs 17th October
• * 60-minute user feedback session: Tues 29th to Thurs 31st October

Sessions will take place online via Zoom.

Payment:
* Tech check: $50
* User feedback session: $100

All up, you will be paid $150 for your time.

Don’t miss out on this paid opportunity to share your valuable perspective.

To register your interest and confirm your eligibility, go to:

https://connect.intopia.digital/paid-feedback-opportunity-registration-three

General supports are one part of Foundational Supports that will aim to improve access to information and connection to the right services and supports.

You can learn more about these by going to:

www.engage.dss.gov.au/foundational-supports/general-supports/

To have your say on general supports, you can:

• consider and review the consultation paper
• answer the online questionnaire (https://engage.dss.gov.au/foundational-supports/general-supports-questionnaire/) and/or;
• submit your thoughts through a written, audio recording or video recording response.
  (https://engage.dss.gov.au/foundational-supports/have-your-say/)

For more info visit www.engage.dss.gov.au/foundational-supports or email foundationalsupports@thesocialdeck.com

Consultation events are also available. You can attend an in person or online roundtable conversation on the design of general supports. Events are facilitated by people with disability.

Registrations are open for some in person events, with more opening soon.

For more details or to register your interest in these, go to:

www.engage.dss.gov.au/foundational-supports/consultations-calendar-and-registrations/

A Webinar recording from the DSS’ introductory webinar on Foundational Supports consultation (20 September) can now be accessed by going to:

www.youtube.com/watch?v=DPDnH_QN5S0

Topics covered:

• Foundational Supports overview and
• how you can get involved in consultations.

Speakers: The Hon. Amanda Rishworth MP, Mel Butcher, Jane Britt and Dr George Taleporos.

Foundational Supports Ideas Wall

The Foundational Supports Ideas Wall is an online, moderated forum where you can share ideas about general supports, as part of the design of Foundational Supports. Write your own thoughts, or comment on those of others.

www.engage.thesocialdeck.com.au/foundational-supports

To receive updates on upcoming consultations, subscribe to the Foundational Supports newsletter by emailing:

foundational.supports@dss.gov.au using

“Please add me to the Foundational Supports mailing list”

in the subject line.

As part of DSS’ ongoing effort to improve communication, they are transitioning to a new mailbox subscription system, called Swift Digital. This will streamline how they handle enquiries and improve the look and accessibility of their newsletter. They expect the new platform to go live soon. Existing subscribers will receive further information about this, including how to opt out or unsubscribe, if you choose to.

For more information, visit DSS Engage:

www.engage.dss.gov.au/foundational-supports/.

Changes to the NDIS are in place as of today and, in spite of efforts to make this transition simple and as seamless as possible, there’s still a lot of uncertainty and concern around where NDIS money can be used.

You can access the list by going to:

https://ourguidelines.ndis.gov.au/media/1749/download

or

https://ourguidelines.ndis.gov.au/media/1751/download (Easy Read version)

Supports no longer allowed will be considered by the NDIA, as long as they are cost effective and viewed as suitable replacements. Only one swap per year for each type of support is permitted.

The NDIA has allowed a transition period to enable everyone to learn the new rules and not to be penalised for accidental mistakes. Purchases costing less than $1,500 that aren’t allowed will not result in an immediate debt to the participant, with a two warnings grace allowed.

You can also find out more about supports that are and are not NDIS supports and replacement lists by going to:

https://ourguidelines.ndis.gov.au/would-we-fund-it/what-does-ndis-fund

Understandably these new rules may be difficult to navigate and you may be feeling overwhelmed.

If you have questions about these changes and how they affect you, please call the NDIA on 1800 800 110.

If you are in need of emotional support, please speak with a friend, family member, health professional or Lifeline (13 11 14), Beyond Blue (1300 22 4636) or headspace (1800 650 890).

Here’s your chance to be involved.

The NDIA is inviting Expressions of Interest to join their new Independent Advisory Council First Nations Reference.

This is your opportunity to help shape a better future for mob with disability.

EOI Opens: 1 October 2024

EOI Closes: 5pm AEST on Tuesday 29 October 2024.

The NDIA is seeking driven and engaged First Nations people with disability to join this Reference Group. Members will play a critical role in improving outcomes for mob with disability, offering independent advice to the NDIA.

What they’re looking for:

Individuals who are passionate, connected, and committed to advocating for the First Nations disability community.

As a member of the IAC FNRG, you’ll provide advice and influence decisions that impact First Nations people with disability.

What you’ll do:

• Participate in meetings (including online and in-person) to address key issues affecting First Nations people with disability.
• Provide advice about issues facing First Nations people in your community
• Listen to others and discuss sensitive matters
• Be paid for your time.

For more information, and to be sent the information booklet, please contact Matthew Berne, First Nations Governance Branch on 0456 692 698 or email matthew.berne@ndis.gov.au

To apply: Email IAC with your completed EOI form advisorycouncil@ndis.gov.au before 5pm AEST Tuesday 29 October 2024.

Once your EOI has been reviewed, they will inform you of the outcome by early December 2024.