IAT June 2015 Newsletter

N EW SL E TT E R June 2015 “To stand with and for vulnerable people with a disability through vigorous independent advocacy.”

NDIS delivers great outcomes for Alex

In This Issue

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is still being trialed, but already there are some great outcomes emerging for Image: Alex enjoying his birthday. L-R: Jamie the people West, David Hammersley, Alex Kassay, Kerry involved. In Kelb (Alex’s father) and Cherril Kassay (Alex’s mother).

Tasmania one participant and his family are really happy with the new scheme.

Chairperson’s Report ........................... 2

Alex Kassay is a young man who has an intellectual disability and is on the autism spectrum. Alex requires constant daily care and cannot live on his own.

QCOSS eNews .................................. 18

Alex’s parents Kerry and Cherril wanted to get Alex a place in a supported living facility so he could continue to develop his social skills and be as independent as possible. They are keen for Alex to be supported into the future.

Management Committee .................... 20

Kerry started doing research on the NDIS website to see what options were available for Alex that suited his needs.

“People need to do their homework and find out all the information they can about what is available,” Kerry said, “We spoke to lots of providers to find out what they offered.”

Right from the start Kerry and Cherril were pleased to find the NDIS offered a different approach to providing care-based solutions.

Continues next page

NDIS delivers great outcomes for Alex . 1 Position Vacant .................................... 3 Funding ................................................ 4 Advocacy Manager’s Report ................ 5 Department of Social Services Submission........................................... 7 Have Your Say ................................... 12 IAT - A Brief History............................ 13 Support IAT ........................................ 13 General News .................................... 14 Cowboys player supports Multicap’s work in Rockhampton ................................. 14 NDIS Update ...................................... 17 Reports .............................................. 19 Useful Resources............................... 19 Staff.................................................... 20 Nothing about us without us! .............. 21 Independent Advocacy Townsville Office 2/179-181 Ross River Road MUNDINGBURRA QLD 4812 PO Box 3067 HERMIT PARK QLD 4812 Phone: Fax: E-mail:

1800 887 688 07) 47 252 505 07) 47 256 106 admin@iat.org.au

Feedback and Contributions Did you find this newsletter useful?

Which section or sections were of most use?

Is there anything you feel we should include in future newsletters?

Do you have something to contribute?

Please send your response to: admin@iat.org.au

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Continued from page 1

“Firstly, we were really pleased the scheme is a needs-based approach and it is a more realistic approach to coordinating the support required,” Kerry said.

Alex's family, NDIS Planner and Anglicare worked together to fast track a solution for him. It meant instead of the three to six months Alex may have waited for a place in a supported home, he was out of respite care and into supported living in just a few weeks.

Through the NDIS, Alex’s family have been able to initiate developmental programs to assist Alex to be more independent. Alex has a choice of providers and is building his confidence with writing and speech, and time recognition through transport training. One of his future goals is to be a part of the Meals on Wheels program offered by the Red Cross. Alex loves interacting with people and would like to be able to contribute to the delivery of meals in the wider community. Alex is also keen to build up his daily living skills by getting used to using public transport. His participation in time recognition training helps him to plan his bus travel so he arrives at the right place at the right time.

Like most young people, Alex uses his mobile phone to keep in contact. He is working on sending text messages and he uses his phone to keep in touch with his parents.

Alex and his parents are happy that choice of services is one of the key aspects of the NDIS. “Thanks to the NDIS, Alex has access to all the brilliant services and providers of his choice,” Kerry said. “This will help him develop the skills he needs to become as independent as he can be which will help guide him into the future.

“Thanks to the NDIS and the service providers we’ve chosen I can rest easy knowing Alex is in good hands for the rest of his life,” Kerry said.

The NDIS is being trialled in several parts of Australia. These trials will help ensure the system will function as it should before the national rollout.

In Tasmania, NDIS trials have involved people aged 15 to 24, including Alex.

Chairperson’s Report Hello Everyone!

We hope you are all enjoying the cooler whether! Of course we are all still hoping for much needed rain especially for the drought stricken farmers and surrounding townships.

The IAT Management Committee along with the staff have been very industriously working and developing our IAT Strategic Plan. Thanks to Kaylene Delaney, our Consultant, we now have a Strategic Plan for the next 12 months to take us into the new world of the NDIS. As we continue to be uncertain about the future of Advocacy, given we are only funded by the Federal and State governments until June 2016 it became the priority of our IAT Strategic Plan. We had robust and rigorous discussions about our possible future options! We have decided to explore a Business arm of IAT and pursue fee for service products for service providers moving towards the NDIS. Our aim is to generate enough funds ourselves to be able to sustain an Advocacy position, without the reliance on government funds.

You will see in this newsletter that you can have a say about the government review of the National Disability Advocacy Program as it is under review.

We urge you to have your say as the continuation of independent Advocacy is more critical than ever in the move towards the NDIS. Take care.

Pam Spelling Chairperson

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Position Vacant Management Committee member 

Duration of project: Ongoing. Minimum Commitment preferred is 2 years.

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Contact name: Kylie-maree Beller

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Contact telephone: 07 4725 2505

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Contact Email: manager@iat.org.au

The IAT Management Committee seeks suitably qualified applicants with disability who have the time and ability to professionally volunteer.

Time required: The Management Committee currently meets monthly during the week. If required, short out of session meetings are held via tele-conference or via email.

Management Committee members will be required to read relevant papers in preparation for meetings. A commitment of up to 12 hours per month is anticipated. The position is unpaid.

Overview: Our Mission is to stand with and for vulnerable people with a disability through vigorous, independent advocacy.

Our Staff All staff are suitably qualified and having experience working within the disability sector and we align our skills and work capabilities with our organisational values.

The Need for Advocacy People with a disability are in particular need of advocacy because they often experience or are vulnerable to:  Discrimination  Neglect  Exploitation  Abuse The Values of an Advocate We believe the following: 

▸People with disability are just as valuable as any other human being regardless of what they do or don't do.

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▸People with disability need the same things that all people need to live well in this world; their own place, sense of belonging, love and affection, safety.

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▸We are all connected within a community and in our world and people with disability must be fully included in this.

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▸People with disability should not be separated, segregated or isolated.

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▸People with disability are human and as such will make mistakes, have courage, be fearful, be likeable, be unpleasant just as any other person.

We are funded by Department of Communities, Child Safety and Disability Services. Department of Social Services (DSS). Queensland Health.

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Essential Criteria IAT is changing and growing with the introduction of the National Disability Insurance Scheme. This is a great opportunity to be part of IAT's expansion and development. To be a suitable candidate to join the IAT Management Committee, you need to have:     

a commitment to and understanding of good governance the ability to engage in strategy development; the ability to read and analyse financial reports; a prior commitment to or interest in disability in the not for profit sector; good leadership and communication skills.

As well as experience in one or more of the following:  Business Development  Fundraising  Marketing  Financial Management  Legal experience.  Social work  Stakeholder Management  Risk and Compliance  Human Resources The IAT Management Committee seeks suitably qualified applicants with disability who have the time and ability to professionally volunteer.

If you would like to join our Committee, please send an email outlining your skills and experience, why you would like to join the Management Committee and attaching a copy of your CV to the manager@iat.org.au.

Funding Supported by the Australian Government Department of Social Services. Go to www.dss.gov.au for more information.

Supported by Queensland Health. information.

Go to www.health.qld.gov.au for more

Supported by the Department of Communities, Child Safety and Disability Services. Go to www.communities.qld.gov.au for more information.

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Advocacy Manager’s Report HI to all our valued members!

Independent Advocacy Townsville has been extremely busy running our workshops in Townsville, Ayr, Ingham, Charters Towers, Palm Island and Hughenden. Participants have reported an increased understanding in how to advocate for themselves, make sure their needs are being met and their rights are being upheld!

Staff and Committee members have been meeting to discuss the best way forward for our organisation to ensure we are ready to meet the challenges and opportunities ahead under the National Disability Insurance Scheme.

Staff are making sure we attend as many NDIS Readiness Workshops as we can to gain a better understanding of how people with disability will be best placed to ensure they are ready for the introduction of the NDIS, who will be eligible, the types of benefits that can be claimed and how the role of advocacy will be crucial during this transition period and into the future. The NDIS will be one of the most enormous changes facing our sector and up to this point the National Disability Insurance Agency do not acknowledge the need for independent advocacy!

We are continuing to work with individuals who are referred to our organisation because they face discrimination and abuse as a result of their vulnerability. We continue to fight for those or alongside those unable to use their own voice or are not being heard.

We are continuing to meet with and lobby Members of Parliament for the issues dearest to our member’s hearts, the placement of young people in nursing homes, the abuse and neglect that is occurring in boarding homes as well as the ongoing issue of what happened to those with disability when they turn 65 years of age.

We have recently been very fortunate to have the introduction of two very valuable volunteers into our organisation. Mr. Alan Birrell and Ms. Carmel Parker, without whose support, we would be very much more overloaded. Thank you Carmel and Alan for choosing Independent Advocacy Townsville as recipients of your time and dedication.

Please remember that it is your support, as valued members of IAT that assists us to do the work that we do. Please do contribute by attending the upcoming AGM as well as let us know what you may like to see in future newsletters. Have you considered a position on the Management Committee? Do you have skills and experiences that may assist us?

Kia ora Kylie-maree Beller Advocacy Manager

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ARE YOU READY FOR THE NDIS??

‘SELF ADVOCACY WORKSHOP’ For people with Disability

Hughenden 2 DAYS and FREE WORK BOOK

Carer provided for support if required

Wednesday 29th & Thursday 30th July 2015 10:00am to 4:00pm

Ph: 4725-2505

Enrol NOW!!!

Limited places available

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Department of Social Services Submission National Disability Advocacy Framework “To deny people their human rights is to challenge their very humanity.”

Nelson Mandela

“I have cherished the ideal of a democratic and free society in which all persons live together in harmony and with equal opportunities.”

Nelson Mandela

“Never depend upon institutions or government to solve any problem. All social movements are founded by, guided by, motivated and seen through by the passion of individuals.”

Margaret Mead

“The reality that the (intellectually disabled) person is a version of myself is one from which so much can be learned and gained, and yet, it is a reality which most people deny and try to escape from.”

Wolf Wolfensberger

Queensland Advocacy Incorporated is an independent, community-based systems and individual advocacy organisation and a community legal service for people with disability.

Our mission is to promote, protect and defend, through systems and individual advocacy, the fundamental needs and rights and lives of the most vulnerable people with disability in Queensland.

QAI does this by engaging in systems advocacy work through campaigns directed to attitudinal, law and policy change, and by supporting the development of a range of advocacy initiatives in this state and of national significance.

It is highly commendable that the Disability Reform Council has decided to fund 

decision supports

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safeguard supports

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capacity-building for participants, including support to approach and interact with disability supports and access mainstream services.

It is clear from the consultations, the submissions and public hearings that the entire sector recognises the importance of advocacy that is independent and as free from conflict of interest as possible. QAI is appreciative that the Disability Reform Council also values the importance of advocacy by seeking to fund advocacy as part of “decision supports” and “safe-guards supports” and elsewhere.

However most of our submission constitutes an objection to the intention to fund advocacy under the NDIS. We believe that this will mean a significant distortion of the NDAF and will undermine the principles of advocacy and jeopardise the viability of the advocacy sector. Please see the QAI submission on NDIS Quality and Safeguards Framework with particular reference to advocacy. In all of our submissions regarding the ILC, the Quality and Safeguards and Advocacy under the

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NDIS, as well as our submission to the Senate Inquiries into violence, abuse and neglect against people with disability in institutional and residential settings, and the adequacy of existing residential care arrangements available for young people with severe physical, mental or intellectual disabilities in Australia, QAI have held the consistent position that it is inappropriate to fund advocacy under the NDIS and issued the urgent plea to ensure that advocacy is NOT funded under the NDIS. QAI appreciates the opportunity to make a submission on the Review of the National Disability Advocacy Framework. Before addressing each of the questions posed by the Department, we wish to comment on the meaning and importance of advocacy in the disabilities context and the relevance of advocacy funding.

What Is Advocacy?

In reviewing the National Disability Advocacy Framework, the Department of Social Services must be fully cognisant of ‘what is advocacy?’ The meaning outlined in the discussion paper falls far short of what advocacy is according to the advocacy principles adhered to by advocates in Australia.

Discussion Paper Stating that advocacy means supporting people with disability to “find employment and training” inappropriately conflates the service domain with advocacy. Individual advocates may assist a person to link with employment services, or advocate to an employer or employer group, and systems advocacy will engage in the promotion of employment of workers with disabilities, but advocacy organisations are not in the business of employment service. It also fails to acknowledge the fundamental importance of ongoing advocacy support for people with disability along the continuum of their working lives..

QAI supports the separation of advocacy from all and any other forms of service provision.

The discussion paper definition of advocacy neglects the plethora of issues that also must be addressed over the life of a person or group of people with disability (ie abuse, neglect, discrimination, fundamental needs, health, housing, education, support services etc).

Defining advocacy as supporting people with disability to stand up for their rights and choices is of no real value unless we address the multiple systemic factors that marginalise and disempower people with disability so as to render their “choices” meaningless. For people with disability, there are many factors that restrict realistic opportunities to exercise proper choice in many (or indeed any) key areas of their lives.

When choice is considered in an individualistic way, it deflects attention from the broader limitations on choice experienced by vulnerable groups in our society and instead places responsibility on the individual for the “choices” they make. Where the outcome is less (often far less) than ideal, the individual is blamed; the popular neo-liberal rhetoric of choice masks the lack of real choices people within disempowered groups have over important issues affecting their lives and absolves society of responsibility for individual hardship. The rhetoric of choice disguises the reality that “choices” by vulnerable people are made within a complex social and legal order, with government policy and social and economic circumstance shaping, reinforcing and dictating individual choice.

This reduces “choice” to an exercise in disempowerment, whereby choosing is reduced to a process of deciding between a selection of inappropriate and inadequate options. There’s small choice in rotten apples.

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Suggesting that advocacy supports people with disability to “have their say” is confusing the empowerment of people with disability with genuine self-advocacy and ignores the fact that the majority of people with disability at one time or another will need someone to advocate on their behalf, including groups of people with disability. Certainly QAI is supportive of individuals who have the capacity and strength to self-advocate, but one must consider that all of us at times need the assistance of another in order to advocate for us when we cannot, or where the issues are greater than our experience or knowledge. Our mission and objective is to ensure that the most vulnerable people with disability have their rights, lives and needs defended, protected and promoted.

The Definition of Advocacy Adopted by Advocates Action for Advocacy Development uses the following definition, which is based on the work of Dr Wolf Wolfensberger. Advocacy groups in Australia discussed this definition during a National Advocacy Workshop in Sydney in June 1994. Most of these elements were agreed to and are the principles by which QAI conducts its work: Advocacy is speaking, acting and writing, with minimal conflict of interest, on behalf of the sincerely perceived interests of a disadvantaged person or group to promote, protect and defend their welfare and justice by 

being on their side and no-one else’s

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being primarily concerned with their fundamental needs

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remaining loyal and accountable to them in a way which is emphatic and vigorous and which is, or is likely to be, costly to the advocate or advocacy group

The National Disability Advocacy Framework The current National Disability Advocacy Framework defines advocacy services provided under the framework as:a)

Disability advocacy enables people with disability to participate in the decision making processes that safeguard and advance their human rights.

b)

Individual advocacy supports people with disability to exercise their rights, through either one-to-one support, or by supporting people to advocate for themselves individually, through a third party or on a group basis.

c)

Systemic advocacy seeks to introduce and influence longer term changes to ensure the rights of people with disability are attained and upheld to positively affect the quality of their lives.

QAI agrees that the definition of advocacy used in the National Disability Advocacy Framework is far more appropriate and accurate than that described in the discussion paper.

The Mutual Antagonisms of Funding Advocacy Under the NDIS QAI is appreciative that the Council of Australian Governments’ Disability Reform Council agreed that the NDIS would fund:

decision supports

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safeguard supports

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capacity building for participants, including support to approach and interact with disability supports and access mainstream services.

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However, it is disconcerting that the agreement to fund advocacy under the NDIS as part of decisions supports and safeguards was made without consultations with advocates and advocacy organisations. The National Disability Advocacy Program itself is to be reviewed, yet our organisation still is yet to be consulted on this matter.

QAI strongly and emphatically objects to the funding of advocacy under the NDIS for a range of reasons. It is also incongruent with the 2011 Productivity Commission Inquiry which recommended advocacy be funded and provided outside the NDIS. We believe the Productivity Commission Inquiry Report intended that ALL advocacy should be funded outside the NDIS. QAI asserts that advocacy would be more appropriately funded from the Australian Department of the AttorneyGeneral.

Quality and Safeguards and ILC The recent consultations on the Quality and Safeguards Framework (Q&S) and the NDIS Information, Linkages and Capacity-Building Framework (ILC) certainly indicated the universal acknowledgement of the need for advocacy. However, those acknowledgements also recognised the need for the advocacy to be independent, have minimal conflict of interest, and to be available to all people with disability.

From the QAI submission to the ILC Framework - People with disability often receive both support and accommodation from the same organisation. These arrangements may be cost-efficient for the organisation but present major conflicts of interest and add an extra layer of exposure to people with disability. They are vulnerable to eviction both for breaches of the tenancy agreement and when there is a dispute over support provision. The advent of the NDIS will not immediately address this conflict, although it must do so as soon as possible. Advocacy seeks to ensure that people with disability are not threatened and will advance the agenda for service providers to divest themselves of much of the control and ownership over a person’s life.

Again QAI reiterates that funding advocacy for people with disability from the same source as that which provides funding for their disability support needs, is another discord that further enmeshes the lives of people with disability with structures that tend to own rather than enable or empower them.

This review is being conducted with a view to altering the principles to fit with the predetermined decision to fund advocacy from within the NDIS and therefore this is likely to compromise the very principles of advocacy.

What funding advocacy under the NDIS will exclude by default 1.

Issues confronting people with disability Funding advocacy under the NDIS creates at least a very narrow perception of advocacy actions focused on NDIS supports, services, funding, etc. This negates the other issues that impact negatively on a person’s life such as the serious issues of abuse, neglect, discrimination, fundamental needs, health, housing, education, transport, etc.

2.

The majority of people with disability excluded from the NDIS Furthermore and most importantly this implies that people with disability will access or purchase advocacy with a percentage of their funded supports. This is an alarming and highly contentious decision that ignores the many people who will not be eligible for NDIS funded supports. This is particularly exclusive of people with disability in a range of detention centres (prisons, and forensic detention) who are highly vulnerable, conceivably have the most to benefit from NDIS but are prohibited from its opportunities. All people with disability who are ineligible for NDIS funded supports will require vigorous advocacy particularly in areas of abuse, neglect, and fundamental needs, and this funding arrangement further marginalises and discounts them.

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According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), 17.9% of Queenslanders, or just less than 1 in every 5 people, have a disability. Over 150,000 Queenslanders have a severe disability and require help or assistance with self-care, mobility or communication needs. There are 8 disability advocacy services in Queensland, and approximately 3 Full Time Employed systemic disability advocacy positions in the State of Queensland funded by the Commonwealth. That works out to about 5 individual advocates and one systems advocate for every 50,000 Queenslanders with a severe disability.

The 2006 Report on the National Disability Advocacy Program for DFSCIA by Social Options asserted that existing advocacy services do not provide adequate coverage for the disability sector, noted that there are large geographic areas of Australia without advocacy services, and that ‘there are insufficient advocacy services for those most vulnerable, including people with reduced mental capacity and those with communication difficulties’. (From the QAI Position paper – “Advocacy and the NDIS” attached.)

There are about 4,230,000 people with disability in Australia and it is estimated only 400,000 will receive individual packages under the NDIS.

ILC Framework This leads to the notion that under the ILC, Local Area Coordinators (LACs) will perform advocacy for those people ineligible for funded supports. It is not envisaged that LACs will be advocates yet QAI is concerned that there will be an over-reliance on the role of LAC’s to perform the kind of relationship building required and for which there will not be sufficient funding, time or capacity. We consider that there are significant limitations associated with the ILC Framework’s vision of the likely role and impact of LACs. Even within the ILC, we do not consider it possible for the LAC role to be as all-encompassing as that proposed by the NDIA. Accordingly, we consider that some of the information and referrals are best provided through individual advocacy organisations, as LACs will not have the same experience or skills. Please refer to the QAI submission on the ILC Framework for further discussion on this point.

The funding of decision supports through advocacy is essential and therefore should be as free from conflicts of interests as possible and can be provided through individual advocacy agencies – not other service provider types.

Funding this vital role and other advocacy efforts within the NDIS gives rise to potential conflicts of interest and conceivably jeopardises the continued funding of advocacy organisations should their actions conflict with the interests of the NDIA. QAI supports the separation of advocacy from all and any other forms of service provision.

Response to specific questions raised in the Review of the National Disability Advocacy Framework As noted earlier, QAI objects to the decision to fund advocacy from the NDIS pool of resources.

1.

Do you believe the current Framework encompasses your vision of advocacy in the NDIS environment? If not, what changes are required?

The current Framework certainly supports the QAI vision of advocacy within the context of the NDIS as it provides clear guidance and principles aligned with advocacy that is partisan, free from conflict of interest, works to advance the human rights and lives of people with disability, promotes the inclusion of all people with disability while recognising the diversity within the cohort of people with disability, and acknowledges the continuous improvement in law, policy and practice reform to enable this to occur.

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QAI stresses that the definition or description of advocacy outlined in the Department of Social Service Discussion paper is completely inadequate and inaccurate. Unfortunately what is described in the discussion paper will confuse advocacy for service provision, provide misinformation to any person or group wishing to comment on the paper, and perhaps mislead people with disabilities and their families regarding the kinds of activities which are not advocacy.

2.

Are the principles of the Framework appropriate for guiding the delivery of advocacy for people with disability in a changing disability environment, including in the context of the NDIS? If not, what changes are required?

QAI endorses the current NDAF principles as they encompass our vision of advocacy even within the NDIS context, provided that they are not diluted or diminished in order to fit the illogical model of service provision under the NDIS. The NDAF fulfils the aim of the NDIS in supporting autonomy and control for people with disability, yet does not seek to subsume the promotion and protection of rights of people with disability into the world of service provision.

3.

Are the outcomes of the Framework still relevant or should different ones be included? If so, what should be included?

The outcomes of the Framework are an articulation of the aims and efforts of advocacy organisations for all people with disability including people who will not be funded under the NDIS.

4.

Are the outputs of the Framework still relevant or should different outputs be included?

While individual advocates already provide support for decision making for people that would otherwise have no other informal supports such as family or friends, the outputs of the Framework should include this important role.

5.

Does the Framework identify what is needed in the current and future disability environment? If not, what changes are required?

It is not the role or scope of the National Disability Advocacy Framework to identify what is needed in the current or future disability environment. The role and purpose of the Framework is to guide advocacy and inform the sector about the structure of advocacy and how it pertains to people with disability whether within or out of the NDIS context.

If the NDIS provides funding to advocacy there will be a need to articulate in the Framework the areas of advocacy support that funded advocacy agencies are likely to perform.

There is no means to predict who will need advocacy in the areas of abuse, neglect or support needs to transition from prison or indefinite forensic detention. There is no way to predict how many students will need advocacy to fight discrimination, or how many people will seek advocacy for safe and accessible transport.

Have Your Say Review of the Australian National Disability Advocacy Framework The Australian Government has announced a review of the National Disability Advocacy Framework. The framework underpins disability advocacy services across Australia and is designed to provide a way for government to support people with disability protect their rights.

The review, facilitated by the Department of Social Services (DSS) will look at how the framework might operate within or alongside the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).

In a recent joint submission to the NDIS quality and safeguards framework consultation, WWDA and People With Disability Australia (PWDA) encouraged Government to ensure that disability advocacy

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is sufficiently funded and accessible to all people with disability, as a fundamental human rights safeguard.

You can contribute your thoughts to the review of the national advocacy framework through the Department of Social Services engage.dss.gov.au portal. Feedback from the review, together with insights from recent NDIS consultations, will be used to develop the new framework, which will be released in early 2016.

You can make a submission at engage.dss.gov.au/ndaf/ before 24 July 2015.

To assist with making a submission, you can download or listen to the discussion paper: 

National Disability Advocacy Framework discussion paper (PDF)



Listen to PDF



National Disability Advocacy Framework discussion paper (DOCX)

Easy English version of the discussion paper: 

National Disability Advocacy Framework discussion pa per – Easy English (PDF)



Listen to PDF



National Disability Advocacy Framework discussion paper – Easy English (DOCX)

IAT - A Brief History IAT has been incorporated for over two decades, providing advocacy support and high quality services to people with disabilities in the Townsville and surrounding districts. Covering rural and regional areas from the Cassowary Coast in the north, east to Palm Island, south to the Burdekin, and west to Hughenden.

IAT is located opposite the Cathedral School, in Mundingburra. We have two Advocates and continue to offer advocacy support to vulnerable individuals. We also provide information to family, friends and other community members. We continue to stand for people’s rights and freedoms.

We also provide information sessions and presentations to answer any queries and welcome any questions relating to providing an information session about Independent Advocacy Townsville.

As economic and political situations change we are maintaining a positive outlook and continue to support people with disabilities during the introductory phase of new schemes and other changes within the sector.

IAT’s advocacy speaks, acts and writes with minimum conflict of interest by standing with, and for people with disability to promote, protect and defend their welfare, rights and justice by: being on their side and no-one else’s, without jeopardy to the most vulnerable being primarily concerned with their fundamental needs: and remaining loyal and accountable to them in a way which is emphatic and vigorous and which requires the bearing of costs by the advocate or advocacy group.

Support IAT You can make a real difference to the lives of vulnerable people with disability by financially supporting IAT to make sure our advocacy efforts continue in the future.

All donations over $2.00 are tax deductible. All gifts are also welcome.

You can choose to make a one off donation or a recurrent donation.

Alternatively, for further details about supporting IAT contact us on (07) 4725 2505.

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General News New World Conference: Disability in the 21st Century The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) is proud to host the New World Conference: Disability in the 21st Century and trade show to be held at the Brisbane Conference and Exhibition Centre on 27-29 October 2015.

This groundbreaking international conference will welcome more than 1500 people with disabilities, service providers, IT professionals and companies all wanting to be part of the technology revolution in disability services in the 21st century. Our conference will showcase innovative technology designed to enhance the lives of people with disability and enable choice and control and full participation in life.

The New World Conference: Disability in the 21st Century will start the conversation about disability in Australia in the 21st Century.

The conference program will feature leading Australian and international experts s howcasing how innovative and effective technology will transform the lives of people with disability, their families and carers. The extensive conference program includes plenary sessions, workshops and master classes for CEOs and executives, NDIS immersion sessions, user experience case studies and a trade and exhibition show.

People with disability will present their digital aspirations to Australia’s leading IT professionals, who will have the opportunity to share their products and services. Be part of the technology revolution in disability services and register your interest today.

Subscribe regular updates: http://www.ndis.gov.au/NDIS-new-world-conference-2015#subscribe Find out more about presenting at the Conference: http://www.ndis.gov.au/form/conference-paperspwd-disability-services-support-organisations

Cowboys player supports Multicap’s work in Rockhampton Jake Granville is stoked about the opportunity to back an initiative offering purpose -built accommodation to people with disabilities in Rockhampton. The North Queensland Cowboys player said the opportunities provided to people with disabilities are extremely important, particularly the Homes4Life initiative.

"It's a fantastic program and as an ambassador I'm r eally happy to support something that provides a home for Multicap people," said Jake.

Originally from Rockhampton, Jake is excited to get behind a home -grown project and help raise awareness for the work that Multicap does in the community.

"As a Rocky boy, it gives me great pleasure to be able to give back to a program that benefits the community," he said.

"The work they do in making available practical accommodation and high level care is so important and I'm proud to spread the word on the great work t hey do."

To help open doors to people who need it most was a key motivation behind Jake becoming an ambassador.

When asked if he saw a parallel between a game of footy and the work of Multicap, Jake said "there are some similarities like dedication, determination and working together to achieve a common goal, but to be honest the work Multicap people do each day and what I do shouldn't be compared. I play a sport and they make a huge difference in people's lives".

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Jake is humbled by the work done for people with disabilities and often visits the Townsville Community Learning Centre where children with disabilities get a fantastic confidence boost from 'hanging out' with one of the famous Cowboy players. Multicap is a high needs disability support organisation providing individual, respite, family support networks, opportunities, and programs throughout Queensland for over 50 years.

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Enrolment Form Advanced Negotiation Skills Public Interest Advocacy Centre Ltd Senior Trainer Friday 18th September 2015 9:00AM – 4:30PM Advanced Negotiation Skills Having the skills and confidence to negotiate is an essential part of advocacy. You will learn to strengthen your bargaining position through thoughtful planning, develop effective skills, strategies and techniques, and discover how you can identify your own value and power, in any negotiation. This practical one-day workshop includes the ‘principled’ or ‘interest-based’ negotiation approach from the work of the Harvard Negotiation Project.

This workshop covers: •

How to understand the core concerns of your opposition prior to a meeting

•

How to create opportunity for both yourself and the party you are negotiating with

•

Dealing with power imbalance during negotiations, Planning and negotiations and Managing impasse as well as Creative solutions.

managing

At this workshop you will develop skills that will be immediately relevant and useful in all aspects of work. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Name:

_____________________________________________

Organisation:

___________________________________________________

Contact Number:

___________________________________________________

Dietary Requirements:

___________________________________________________

Cost: $240 Payment must be made by August 30th 2015 to secure your place. However, once 20 places have been confirmed and paid for, the opportunity will be closed.

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NDIS Update The following information has been retrieved from Department of Communities, Child Safety and Disability Services Queensland NDIS update.

Queensland welcomes the National Disability Insurance Agency

Participant Portal User Guide The Participant Portal has been improved. We welcome feedback: NDIA will keep improving our Participant Portal information. If you have any comments or suggestions, please tell us via the feedback form.

What is the Participant Portal and who is it for?

It is a secure website for participants, nominees and contacts who are approved to view and direct NDIS plans and, where applicable, to make self-managed claims online.

How do I get access to the Participant Portal?

To access the Participant Portal, you need to be a NDIS participant, nominee or a contact for a participant. Once you are a participant or listed as a nominee/contact, the NDIA will work with you to choose who has access to the Participant Portal. You may wish to have several people viewing, directing and self-managing the plan or just one person.

Your planner will provide each portal user a unique activation code. Access the Participant Portal here. Listen to the website page here How do I access the Participant Portal?

The Participant Portal is a secure member service on the Australian Government's MyGov website.

You can take a tour of myGov or see how to create your myGov account.

If you need assistance with logging into MyGOV please call the MyGOV helpline on 132 307 and select option 1 (Operating Hours 7am - 10pm Moday to Friday and 10am - 5pm Saturdays and Sundays AEST or you can go to the help section on the MyGOV website.

Fact Sheets and Resources NDIS Participant Readiness Fact Sheet: https://www.communities.qld.gov.au/resources/reform-renewal/ndis-qld/factsheet-ndis-participantreadiness.pdf NDIS Provider Readiness Fact Sheet: https://www.communities.qld.gov.au/resources/reform-renewal/ndis-qld/factsheet-ndis-providerreadiness.pdf NDIS Workforce Readiness Fact Sheet: https://www.communities.qld.gov.au/resources/reform-renewal/ndis-qld/factsheet-ndis-workforcereadiness.pdf NDIS Frequently Ask Questions Page: https://www.communities.qld.gov.au/gateway/reform-and-renewal/disability-services/nationaldisability-insurance-scheme-in-queensland/frequently-asked-questions NDIS Events Calendar Page: https://www.communities.qld.gov.au/gateway/reform-and-renewal/disability-services/nationaldisability-insurance-scheme-in-queensland/ndis-calendar?view=month&date=2015-0713&region=North%20Queensland&audience

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QCOSS eNews The following information has been retrieved from the QCOSS eNews.

Carer Support – National Carer Gateway Following the May 2015 Budget announcement regarding the establishment of the national carer gateway commencing from December 2015, the Department is undertaking an important first step to ensure that the gateway will be a valuable resource for carers.

Commencing in June 2015, consumer research will be undertaken by Australian Market Research and will involve important input from over 1000 participants across Australia. Research participants will be involved in a number of different ways including mini focus groups, phone interviews, in home interviews and on online survey. The people contributing to the research will come from a mix of socio economic backgrounds and will include both employed and unemployed carers, as well as organisations supporting carers.

The outcomes of the research activities, will underpin the development of the carer gateway and will ensure that needs of carers are central to the development of the gateway and to the broader Integrated Plan for Carer Support Services.

Specifically, the purpose of the consumer research is to: 

identify and understand the different types of carers (characteristics, demographics, attitudes and behaviour) and their experiences accessing information and support services;



assist in understanding the ‘hidden carer’ population, who they are, and how they can be reached;



scope existing information available for carers;



understand and capture carer information and support wants, needs and expectations;



identify services that carers are currently accessing and services that are needed but not currently available;



determine the most effective communication channels for reaching our target market; and



inform website content development, information structure, service channel preferences, as well as branding and communication considerations.

The Department will also engage the sector through a co-design process to guide the design of both the gateway and the broader future carer service system. This process has already commenced with the Department visiting a range of organisations that currently support carers.

A series of co-design workshops will also start in early July 2015. Further information on the codesign workshops and further details about participating in the online survey will be made available on the DSS website at: www.dss.gov.au/our-responsibilities/disability-and-carers.

Department of Social Services E: supportingcarers@dss.gov.au W: https://www.dss.gov.au/disability-and-carers/news/2015/carer-support-services-nationalcarer-gateway

Tenant Advice Services Expanded As of June 2015, tenants seeking advice should find it easier to get through to Tenants Queensland’s advice service. The service is now open daily from 9:00am until 4:00pm with extended hours to 7pm on Tuesday and Wednesday. Additionally, there are multiple advice workers available to assist tenants at during these times.

To contact the service, tenants call 1300 744263 from anywhere in the state. Callers using a landline are charged a standard local call cost whilst callers on mobiles will pay their usual mobile rates.

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The expanded service was been made possible after the Minister for Housing and Public Works, the Hon. Leeanne Enoch, announced an interim telephone based tenant advice service to operate until the end of September, during which time a new Statewide Tenant Advisory Program will be procured.

The interim service is being delivered by Tenants Queensland in coordination with Enhance Care using the single access point for clients. Enhance Care is delivering advice to renters in the areas around north Brisbane and Caboolture whilst Tenants Queensland is servicing the rest of the state.

The organisations are working together to ensure high service standards and quality management.

Reports Inequality in Australia: A nation divided https://www.qcoss.org.au/inequality-australia-nation-divided. Read the report and watch the video on the ACOSS website

Queensland Accessing Interpreters Working Group annual report 2014-15 Read the QAIWG annual report 2014-15 (PDF) (Word)

Useful Resources The National Disability Abuse and Neglect Hotline (The Hotline) – a telephone service for reporting cases of neglect and abuse of disabled members of the community.

Hotline: 1800 880 052 TIS: 13 14 50 TTY: 1800 301 130 NRS: 1800 555 677 Email: hotline@workfocus.com For more information visit the Website: http://www.disabilityhotline.net.au/

Welcome to the Disability Lawyer The goal of this site is to provide a searchable, indexed resource of information about disability and the law. http://www.thedisabilitylawyer.net.au/

NDIS Updates Queensland Government’s disability website Phone: 13 QGOV (13 74 68) www.qld.gov.au/disability Department of Communities, Child Safety and Disability Services (Disability Services) Phone: 13 QGOV (13 74 68) Email: disability@communities.qld.gov.au www.communities.qld.gov.au/disability National Disability Insurance Agency Phone: 1800 800 110 Sign up to receive regular email updates at: www.ndis.gov.au/sign-updates www.ndis.gov.au

Newsletter: June 2015

Management Committee Chairperson and Public Officer:.......................... Pam Spelling Secretary: ............................................................ Elise Whebell Treasurer: ............................................................ Erion Haxhiraj Associate Member: .............................................. Linda Anderson Ordinary Member: ................................................ Karene Gravener

Staff Advocacy Manager:.............................................. Kylie-maree Beller Advocates: ........................................................... Anne Hansen ............................................................................... Tania Brown Administrator: ...................................................... Beverly Smith

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Nothing about us without us!

This was the theme of the United Nations Assembly to ratify the Convention on the Rights of People with Disability.

IAT works on the same principle – we are run by, and for, people with disability.

This ensures that the agency is driven by people with a lived experience of disability and how societal values around disability impact on people’s lives.

We are therefore able to remain relevant and focussed.

Organisations like IAT can only survive with the involvement of community. We know there are many people with skills and experience that would be an asset to our organisation.

Membership is open to anybody who supports the values, mission, and work of this agency. It is from the membership that we draw our management committee, which is the governing body of our organisation.

Therefore, we are especially interested in people who want to become involved, who could contribute to the agency by supporting the work we do and the values we hold.

In return, IAT offers the opportunity to be involved expand on and develop skills and experience relating to the governance of an organisation, and to be involved with like-minded people in a supportive environment.

Mission Statement “To stand with and for vulnerable people with a disability through vigorous independent advocacy.”

What we believe IAT believes all people have the right to:  Be treated with respect and dignity  Be valued as individuals  Participate in the decisions and choices that effect their lives  Be involved in and contribute to their community  Safety and protection from abuse, neglect and exploitation  Live the life they choose

Key Elements of Advocacy      

Functioning by speaking out, acting and writing Minimal conflict of interest Sincerely perceived interests Promotion of the persons welfare, well being and justice Vigor of Action Costs

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Membership is free for both ordinary and associate members.

Ordinary Membership   

Ordinary Membership is open only to people with disability.

Ordinary members have voting rights and can nominate for positions on the management committee.

Ordinary members make up the majority of positions on the management committee.

Associate Membership  

Associate membership is available to any person concerned with issues affecting people with disability.

Positions on the management committee (other than that of chairperson) are available to associate members; they have voting rights only for the period of their inclusion on the committee.

What membership does not include:  

Automatic or preferential approval for advocacy support – all members, should they require advocacy, would be subject to the same entry criteria and referral process as any other person requesting advocacy support Automatic approval for membership of the management committee – any person nominating for membership of the management committee must nominate and address a set of selection criteria. This is to ensure that members are able to support the values of the organisation, and assists us to determine how we can assist the management committee members to increase their skills and knowledge in relation to the management of this agency

If you would like to become a member of IAT, please complete one of the membership application forms at the back of this newsletter and return to the office for processing.

If you would like to discuss membership or joining the management committee please call us on (07) 4725 2505 or toll free on 1800 887 688.

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ASSOCIATE MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION FORM I would like to apply for Associate Membership of

Independent Advocacy Townsville Name: ........................................................................................................................

Signed: ..............................................

Address: .................................................................................................................... .................................................................................................................................... ....................................................................................................................................

Postal Address: ......................................................................................................... .................................................................................................................................... ....................................................................................................................................

Phone Number: .................................

Date: ..................................................

On completion, please return to Independent Advocacy Townsville 2/179-181 Ross River Road MUNDINGBURRA QLD 4812 PO Box 3067 HERMIT PARK QLD 4812

Phone: 1800 887 688 07) 47 252 505 Fax: 07) 47 256 106 E-mail: admin@iat.org.au

OFFICIAL USE ONLY Proposed by:

........................................................

Signed: ..........................................

Seconded by:

........................................................

Signed: ..........................................

Accepted by Meeting of the Management Committee.

Date of Meeting: .....................................................

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ORDINARY MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION FORM I would like to apply for Ordinary Membership of

Independent Advocacy Townsville Name: ........................................................................................................................

Signed: ..............................................

Address: .................................................................................................................... .................................................................................................................................... ....................................................................................................................................

Postal Address: ......................................................................................................... .................................................................................................................................... ....................................................................................................................................

Phone Number: .................................

Date: ..................................................

On completion, please return to Independent Advocacy Townsville 2/179-181 Ross River Road MUNDINGBURRA QLD 4812 PO Box 3067 HERMIT PARK QLD 4812

Phone: Fax: E-mail:

1800 887 688 07) 47 252 505 07) 47 256 106 admin@iat.org.au

OFFICIAL USE ONLY Proposed by:

........................................................

Signed: ..........................................

Seconded by:

........................................................

Signed: ..........................................

Accepted by Meeting of the Management Committee.

Date of Meeting: .....................................................