WhatsUp in Disability January/February 2020 Magazine by BigDog Support

Australia on Fire YB Central Opens 2019 the Big Stories Disability Information Services by People with Disability Toowoomba and Southern Queensland

Volume 1, Issue 92

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Proudly supported and printed by ToowoombaWhatsUp Region in Disability

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WhatsUp

Highlights January/February 2020

04 05 10 19 23 28

Human Rights in Queensland

Workability QLD NDIS Forum

NDIS Updates

Community Radio 102.7 FM

Autism Training for Police

My Community

Cover Page Graphic image of the raging bushfire with an SES officer in the foreground. Picture through Facebook

Liz Schneidewin Editor

Steven Paull JP (Qual) President Page 2

Australia on Fire Record low rainfall has contributed to a continent-scale emergency that has burned through more than 5 million hectares and alarmed scientists, doctors and firefighters.

Hats off to these Heroes

In November dry and windy conditions brought on the start of an early and particularly devastating bushfire season in NSW and Queensland. In NSW, an unprecedented 17 emergency level fires were burning at the same time on the Mid -North and North Coasts where hundreds of homes have been destroyed.

But I’ve gotta tell ya mate, I like it better when it rains.

Homes were also lost in Queensland where fires ravaged the Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast hinterland and Darling Downs. Soil moisture is at historic lows in some areas, and rainfall in the first eight months of the year was the lowest on record in the northern tablelands and Queensland’s southern downs. Bushfires in NSW dominated the lead into Christmas. With more than 100 fires burning across the state, it was three fires - Gospers Mountain mega-fire northwest of Sydney, the Green Wattle Creek blaze southwest of Sydney, and the Grose Valley fire in the Blue Mountains - that caused the most concern. Damage to the Gondwana rainforests in 40 reserves between Brisbane and Newcastle prompted the Unesco world heritage centre to last month express their concern to Australian authorities. The reserves include the largest areas of subtropical rainforest on the planet, some warm temperate rainforest and nearly all the world’s Antarctic beech cool temperate rainforest. They are considered a living link to the vegetation that covered the southern supercontinent Gondwana before it broke up about 180m years ago.

“I love a Sunburnt country, a land of sweeping plains.

The countryside is dying and there’s just no end in sight, And just to rub salt in the wounds, the bush has caught alight. The landscape is on fire from Brisbane to the Gong, And everybody’s asking “where the hell did we go wrong? But we can get through this one if we help each other out. Take care of your neighbour, that’s what Aussies are about. The rain is going to fall again, the good times will return. But living in Australia means at times it’s going to burn. So if you need a helping hand, just give a mate a call. We’re all hear to help you out and catch you when you fall. The RFS, the SES, the Firey’s, and Police,

All put their lives upon the line to help to keep the peace.

PM Scott Morrison was criticised for taking a family vacation in Hawaii during the crisis.

So hats off to these heroes and thanks for all you do

Everyone at WhatsUp extend our deepest sorrow for those who have lost family members, particularly those who were volunteering as firefighters, to those who have lost their homes and pets or livestock. Please let it rain soon.

And I hope when this is over we can make it up to you!” Troy Gerdes

WhatsUp in Disability

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Human Rights in Queensland The aim of the Queensland Human Rights Act 2019 is to consolidate and establish legal protections for certain human rights recognised under international law. Queensland is the third jurisdiction in Australia to introduce human rights legislation, behind the ACT and Victoria. Before the creation of the Queensland Human Rights Act 2019, Queensland lacked blanket legislative protection of basic human rights. However, in Australia, some rights are protected by anti-discrimination legislation. For example, In Queensland, some human rights are reflected in legislation such as the AntiDiscrimination Act 1991, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of grounds including race, sex, age and impairment. Human rights are essential in a democratic and inclusive society that respects the rule of law. The Act recognises that human rights must be exercised in a way that respects the human rights of others and should be limited only after careful consideration and only in a way that can be justified. An important consideration is: who has human rights? Section 11 of the Act states:

• All individuals in Queensland have human rights.

• Only individuals have human rights. Note – This means that a corporation does not have human rights. The aim of human rights instruments is the protection of those vulnerable to violations of their fundamental human rights.

There are some groups who, for various reasons may be particularly vulnerable to human rights issues, or who may have traditionally had their rights limited or not protected at all and as a result, require special protection for the equal and effective enjoyment of their human rights. Examples of groups in Australia who may be particularly vulnerable to human rights issues include:

• Aboriginal

peoples Islander peoples

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and

Torres

Strait

• people seeking asylum • culturally and linguistically diverse people • people living in poverty • people with a disability • people with mental health concerns • children in out of home care “A Human Rights Act for Queensland gives you a voice if you are marginalised, vulnerable, and reliant on government services, encountering bad practices.” – Stephen Keim, Queensland Bar Association.

Did you know... The United Nations was founded in 1945 after World War 2 with the aim of nations working together to maintain worldwide peace, develop relations amongst nations, and to solve international economic, social, cultural and humanitarian problems. The modern idea of human rights is based on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights drafted by the United Nations. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) is a milestone document in the history of human rights. Drafted by representatives with different legal and cultural backgrounds from all regions of the world, the Declaration was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in Paris on 10 December 1948 as a common standard of achievements for all peoples and all nations. It sets out, for the first time, fundamental human rights to be universally protected. It is in the Guinness Book of World Records as the most translated document, having been written in over 500 languages. However, many people are still unaware of their rights. Being a declaration, it is not legally binding. However, it implores states to aspire towards moral obligations. The Declaration details all rights that are the basic minimum necessary to enjoy a dignified human life.

NDIS Forum Toowoomba NDIS Regional Workforce Research Findings This project seeks to assess the impact of the NDIS on labour market/skills supply gaps, occupations difficult to fill, and employment growth opportunities in different regional locations where the NDIS has already been rolled out across Queensland.

The project team includes researchers from CQUniversity, CSIRO’s Data61 and Global Community Resourcing in collaboration with the Community Services Industry Alliance and WorkAbility Queensland. Growth in the number of NDIS participants has been slower than predicted in Queensland and Toowoomba NDIS region, but growth continues.

• Predicted number 6,600 by 30th June 2017

• Actual number 4,172 as at 30th June 2019

As at 30th September 2019 there were 848 active registered providers in the Toowoomba region. Of those providers:

• 548 provided capacity building services (327 active in the last quarter)

• 410 provided core services (260 in the last quarter)

• 198 provided capital services (80 in the last quarter)

While transition has been difficult for participants, providers and workers, the benefits of the scheme are recognised and strong commitment to make it work. However, stakeholders voiced several concerns about the impact of the changes on the quality assurance of non-registered providers and services. Review The rollout is occurring more slowly than expected so demand for workers should continue to increase NDIS job ads have been increasing over time and offer a range of roles The supply of new workers has been increasing rapidly but VET student enrolments look less healthy Many existing workers report skills gaps especially for technical skills Support coordination in demand region requiring new sets of skills.

in the

Highest growth is in individual support, which includes a variety of roles from assistance with daily living and household support to assisting with social and community participation and help in getting and keeping a job. Most providers prefer workers to complete a minimum of a Certificate III in a relevant field, but this is secondary to their focus on the right fit with the values of the organisation, the person-centred focus of the NDIS, and the employability skills required to work with people with disability. Sharon Boyce was one of the speakers at the Workability Conference

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WhatsUp

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YB Central

Penny Hamilton, Carolyn Brown and Des Orr

Welcome to YB Central YellowBridge QLD CEO Penny Hamilton welcomed a large crowd of guests to the grand opening of their new administration offices YB Central. “Thank you to everyone who helped us celebrate the grand opening of our new administration centre.” Penny opened. We are thrilled to finally call YB Central our new home and we love everything about it.“ “Most of all, we love how we finally have one place for all our staff so we can provide more efficient services for our valued clients.“ “We are so proud to breathe new life into one of Toowoomba's iconic landmarks. It was an old skating rink but is now our new home, YB Central. It has taken the efforts of 50 local contractors to realise our dream of one home for our 130 staff.”

Mayor Paul Antonio and Toyota’s Brett Motton

“Our sincere thanks to architects Aspect - Architects and Project Managers, builder Lavish Constructions Pty Ltd and all the tradies and suppliers who were part of this journey.” Yellow Bucket Appeal We are over the moon! This year, we smashed our 300 target and filled 407 buckets with gourmet Christmas food for our 5th Yellow Bucket Appeal. THANK YOU to the amazing people and businesses who made it possible...our staff, friends, family, local businesses and of course, our major sponsor McConachie Stedman who filled an amazing 60 buckets of their own. Christmas should be a time of love and celebration and we are honoured to help spread a little bit of kindness and joy through our humble yellow buckets.

YellowBridge staff in their new office

Crowd of guests listen to the official opening

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WhatsUp in Disability

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Providing a Safe Environment NDIS Commission Report Review of causes and contributors to deaths of people with disability Current research is being undertaken on behalf of the NDIS Commission to review the causes and contributors to deaths of people with disability, and to identify population mortality trends and risks concerning the deaths of people with disability. Providing NDIS participants with quality supports and services in a safe and competent environment with care and skill is an important obligation for all NDIS providers and is fundamental to the rights of people with disability. In this context, it is especially important that both the NDIS Commission in its regulatory role, and NDIS providers delivering supports and services, address the causes and contributors to deaths of people with disability to prevent avoidable deaths.

Under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (Provider Registration and Practice Standards) Rules 2018 all registered NDIS providers are required to notify the NDIS Commission of reportable incidents. Reportable incidents include any death of a person with disability that occurred in connection with their services. As a result, the commencement of the NDIS Commission in each state and territory by 1st July 2020 establishes for the first time consistent national arrangements for reporting the deaths of people with disability who receive funded NDIS services across Australia.

Professor Julian Trollor, Chair, Intellectual Disability Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Developmental Disability Neuropsychiatry University of NSW has been commissioned to undertake a major research project to obtain an Australia-wide perspective on the prevalence of, and factors contributing to, the deaths of people with disability. When completed, this research project will provide a comprehensive scoping review of

the causes and contributors to deaths of people with disability. It will also provide a national baseline picture of death trends and related factors drawing on published state and territory level disability death review data. The NDIS Commission is now considering the project’s report and findings, and will publish the report in early 2020, along with a number of immediate actions they plan to undertake in response, including issuing Provider Practice Alerts and Practice Reviews. The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) will also undertake a complementary project to identify population mortality trends and risks concerning the deaths of people with disability. This project will be informed by the work undertaken by Professor Trollor and is expected to be finished in early 2020. These two projects will commence a longerterm program of work to further assist in responding to and mitigating systemic risks of harm to people with disability, and to prevent avoidable deaths. This program of work will include:

• Establishing a national baseline against

which the NDIS Commission can review the data they collect on the deaths of NDIS participants

• Improving measures for monitoring NDIS provider responses to risk factors contributing to preventable deaths

• Developing new strategies that support NDIS providers deaths.

prevent

avoidable

The NDIS Commission will also approach other regulatory bodies and sector representatives to work with them to develop appropriate guidance, procedures and tools to assist in preventing avoidable deaths. Further information will be published next year on the NDIS Commission website at www.ndiscommission.gov.au

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WhatsUp NDIS

Updates

Red Tape Slashed Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), Stuart Robert, announced the Board of the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) from 1st January 2020, with nine reappointments and one new member. Minister Robert said the appointments are a result of wide consultation and careful consideration to specialist skills and will ensure continuity of governance for the NDIS as it moves towards maturity. ‘As we move into the next phase of the NDIS, it is vital we have a strong, experienced and capable Board to lead the delivery of this world-leading scheme,’ Minister Robert said. ‘Helen Nugent will be returning for a second two-year term as Chair of the NDIA Board, from 1st January 2020 to 31st December 2021. Mr Paul O’Sullivan, Ms Robyn Kruk AO, Mr John Langoulant AO, Ms Estelle Pearson, Ms Sandra Birkensleigh, Mr James Minto, Mr Glenn Keys AO and Mr John Walsh AM will be reappointed for further terms. Two of the Board members reappointed today have been with the Board since the scheme’s inception and have a strong track record in steering the NDIS, which is already benefiting over 310,000 Australians with disability and will grow to 500,000 participants over the next five years. Professor Jane Burns, currently Mental Health and Wellbeing Innovator at Bupa and Professor of Innovation and Chair of the Centre for Mental Health at Swinburne University, has also been newly appointed to the NDIA Board.

‘The addition of Professor Burns strengthens the research capability of the Board to further improve the long-term outcomes for Australians with disability, in particular, young people with psychosocial disability. Andrea Staines OAM and Dr Martin Laverty will depart the Board at the conclusion of their current terms. Minister Robert thanked them for their service on the Board. Renewed and newly appointed members will serve on the Board for terms to July or December 2021. Page 10

In a big win for small businesses seeking to deliver disability services the Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), Stuart Robert, announced changes to the NDIS Provider Registration Rules to simplify registration, all whilst not reducing safeguards for NDIS participants. The changes, made in response to feedback from across the disability sector, will address the disproportionate regulatory burden on some NDIS providers, particularly small businesses delivering lower risk supports such as therapies, home modifications and specialist equipment. Currently, the Rules push all providers that are incorporated into a certification audit process, irrespective of the types of supports delivered. This has the effect of placing different regulatory requirements on providers delivering lower risk supports, based on whether they are incorporated or not. From 1st January 2020 there will no longer be a need for all incorporated providers to undertake a certification audit based solely on the fact on whether or not they are incorporated. Instead, audit requirements will be based solely on the level of risk associated with the supports provided to participants. Minister Robert said the change would streamline the registration process for the many small businesses seeking to become NDIS providers, whilst not reducing the responsibilities of registered providers or the full range of compliance and enforcement actions the NDIS Commission can take to safeguard people with disability. ‘The rule changes announced today are a win for the vast majority of NDIS providers that are small businesses, such as speech pathologists, occupational therapists and assistive technology providers.’ ‘As we deliver the final 20% of the NDIS, we will continue to listen to participants, industry and advocates and prudently make changes to ensure the NDIS is functioning as it should.’ ‘I know this is a welcome change which will ensure more businesses can continue to provide much needed support for NDIS participants right across the country.’

Every Australian Counts Help with reviews and appeals

NDIS Tune Review

If you are not happy with a decision made by the NDIA, you can apply for an internal review of the decision. When you apply, you need to explain why you think the decision was wrong. You can find a copy of the application form on the NDIS website.

There have been so many reviews into the NDIS over the past 12 months it’s all been a bit confusing and exhausting. And more than a bit frustrating – how many times do we have to say the same thing?

If you are not happy with the outcome of the internal review, you can appeal to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal for an external review. The AAT is independent of the NDIA and will review the decision. There are disability advocacy organisations that have been funded to help you through the process. They will help you free of charge. You can find a list of those organisations on the Department of Social Services website. The Department of Social Services website has more information about the whole process, including how to get legal support.

Disability Loop has good summary of how to appeal an NDIS decision, which includes a detailed list of organisations that can help you through the process (although it hasn’t been updated for a while). https://www.disabilityloop.org.au/

But the Tune Review is the biggie. It’s an independent review, which means the government won’t be able to ignore its recommendations. And whatever happens, the government has already promised the NDIS legislation WILL change next year. That’s why it was SO important we all had our say – because it’s us, people with disability, families and carers, who know what’s really going on and what needs to change. The good news is that the Joint Standing Committee have heard you. They have taken on board everything you told them. So their recommendations pretty much mirror all your feedback and ideas. But even more than that, they have made it clear they share your frustration that things aren’t changing fast enough. The Committee have done some incredibly thorough work over the years. And they have made good, practical, sensible recommendations that have not always been heeded.

Every Australian Counts is the original grassroots campaign responsible for bringing the dream of the NDIS to life. They fought to get the scheme started and they are continuing the fight to get it working the way it was intended. www.everyaustraliancounts.com.au/

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Committee Recommendations Tune Review Committee Continued from page 11

Fully costed, detailed draft plans be made available to participants at least one week prior to their meeting with the official with the authority to approve the plan, and that at the meeting the participant have the opportunity to rectify the plan.

The committee recommends that the National Disability Insurance Agency (The Agency) ensure that participants are given the opportunity to meet faceto-face with an official with authority to approve a plan before the plan is approved. The National Disability Insurance Scheme Act 2013 (The Act) be amended to enable participants to review only part of a plan, or to vary a plan, in appropriate circumstances. The Act be amended to require the Agency to complete an unscheduled plan review within 45 days of receiving a request from the participant.

The Act 2013 be amended to require the Agency to complete internal reviews of decisions within 45 days of receiving a request to conduct the internal review.

The Agency publish settlement outcomes relating to external review by the Administrative Appeals Tribunal, in de-identified form.

The Agency standardise the terminology it uses to refer to persons, processes and other matters associated with the NDIS.

The Agency clearly define key terms associated with the NDIS, and with the planning process in particular. Where a term refers to a person, organisation or other body, the committee recommends that the Agency clearly define that entity’s role, functions, responsibilities, limitations and accountability. The Agency ensure that additional training and skills development is provided to all persons involved in the planning process (particularly NDIA officers and LACs), to ensure that all

such persons: □

are familiar with a range of disabilities experienced by participants, and develop specialisation in particular disability areas;

□

are familiar expertise;

□

understand the specific needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander participants, and participants from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, to ensure that they are able to deliver culturally appropriate services; and

□

receive training in domestic violence awareness.

with

allied

health

10. In circumstances where a new plan has not been approved at the plan review date that: □

the Agency continue to provide funding under the existing plan until the new plan is approved; and

□

ensure that a plan review is carried out within 45 days of the review date set out in the existing plan.

11. The committee recommends, where a plan is not approved within 45 days of receipt by an Agency delegate, that: □

the Agency immediately approve a typical supports package (TSP) for the participant as an interim measure; and

□

the Agency replace the TSP with an individualised plan no later than 45 days after the TSP is approved.

12. All participants with complex support needs be immediately streamed to an Agency delegate to develop their plan and appropriate funding package. The Agency develop and implement a mechanism to prioritise access decisions, plan meetings and plan approvals for children with complex needs and/or an acquired disability. The Agency immediately implement a mechanism to allow participants to pay for transport out of core funding.

www.everyaustraliancounts.com.au WhatsUp in Disability

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The Big Stories January

August

Canada granted asylum to 18yo Saudi refugee Rahaf al-Qunun. Now known as Rahaf Mohammed, she said she feared being killed by her family for renouncing Islam and had barricaded herself in a Thai hotel room after her passport was confiscated in an attempt to flee to Australia.

After the biggest manhunt in Canadian history, the bodies of Canadian fugitives Kam McLeod (19yo) and Bryer Schmegelsky (18yo) were found in remote Canadian bushland. The pair were charged with the murders of Aussie Lucas Fowler (23yo), his American girlfriend Chynna Deese (24yo) and 64yo Canadian university lecturer Leonard Dyck.

February Days of torrential rain saw parts of droughtravaged Northern Queensland inundated by a one-in-500-years flood which destroyed homes and killed more than 500,000 head of cattle, causing up to $2 billion in damages. March In New Zealand’s worst-ever mass killing in peacetime, 28yo Australian man Brenton Tarrant allegedly murdered 51 people and injured 50 more in an attack on two mosques in Christchurch. April After spending seven years inside the Ecuadorian embassy in London, WikiLeaks cofounder Julian Assange was arrested was removed from the premises. The Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris went up in flames, destroying its wooden spire and roof, valuable art and other treasures inside. May The Morrison Government was re-elected. It didn’t all go the Coalition’s way with former PM Tony Abbott losing his seat. With Labor leader Bill Shorten making way for someone else to have a go, Anthony Albanese became the new federal Labor leader.

June Aussie tennis champion Ash Barty became world’s number 1 ranked player. It’s a position she ended the year with. July Billionaire hedge fund manager Jeffrey Epstein - whose social circle included Prince Andrew, Donald Trump and Bill Clinton - was charged with assaulting and trafficking girls as young as 14yo.

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September Ahead of the UN Climate Change Summit in New York, an estimated four million people across 185 countries (including around 300,000 Australians) participated in climate strikes. October Uluru was closed to climbers. The traditional owners, the Anangu people, closed the sacred site on 26th October. The months preceding the rock’s closure to climbers saw an influx of tourists including One Nation’s Pauline Hanson. November The Aged Care Royal Commission’s interim report was released, and it didn’t pull its punches. “This cruel and harmful system must be changed…. Older people deserve so much more,” is the starting point. The Morrison Government provided another $500 million for priority areas, but more is needed, pretty much everyone says. The inquiry continues into 2020. December A volcanic eruption on New Zealand’s White Island killed 18 people (two people have not been found), including 16 Australians. A popular tourist spot located almost 50km from the east coast of the North Island in the Bay of Plenty, there were 47 people near the volcano at the time of the eruption. US President Donald Trump was impeached on two counts - abuse of office and obstructing the House of Representatives' investigations. A trial into Trump's "perfect" phone call with Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky will take place in the Senate... at some point.

Science

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Flexible Respite Options * Breakaway Guesthouse- Highfields. Offers short term respite to children and adults with a disability in a comfortable and relaxed environment which is fully staffed. * In-home and/or Community Access Support that is flexible and focused on meeting individual family needs. * Rural and Remote Offers respite support to people with disabilities and their families in rural and remote South West Queensland. * Vacation Care Respite support for children with disabilities and their families during school holidays.

27 Mort Street Toowoomba Telephone: (07) 4639 5100 Fax: (07) 4639 5079 Email: info@breakawaytmba.org

SLOW STARTERS TEN PIN BOWLING LEAGUE for Disabled

SUNSET SUPERBOWL 07 4634 0233

South & Greenwattle Toowoomba

10.00 am every Saturday $18 per session 3 games Sports Registration $50 (membership) Glenda (07) 4614 1136 Kathy (07) 4630 5221 Page 16

New things in 2020 Human Rights The Human Rights Act 2019 will commence in its entirety and form part of the administrative law obligations and oversight mechanisms that hold government to account. (Full story in this edition) Mobile Phones The Queensland Government has announced harsher penalties to come for drivers who use their mobile phone illegally while driving. From 1st February the penalties for illegally using a mobile phone while driving are increasing from a $400 fine and three demerit points to a $1000 fine and four demerit points in a bid to curb dangerous behaviour.

102.7 FM new President Pat Menz and outgoing President Sara Andrews

The increased penalties mean that some licence holders, like learners and P-Platers, could lose their licence from just one offence. Help for 1st Home Buyers The Prime Minister’s $500 million First Home Loan Deposit Scheme – which was announced just before the May election – is due to be rolled out meaning 10,000 eligible borrowers will be able to get their foot in the door earlier. Buyers usually need a 20% deposit to avoid paying mortgage insurance. But under the Coalition’s scheme, participants would only need a 5% deposit, with the Government guaranteeing the rest and covering the mortgage insurance under a special loan. It will be limited to properties under $700,000 in Sydney, $600,000 in Melbourne and even less in other areas and to single Aussies with an annual income of up to $125,000 or $200,000 for couples.

Cheaper Medication There’s good news for Aussies when it comes to accessing affordable medicine on the horizon. From1st January the threshold to receive free or further discounted medicines through the Pharmaceutical Benefit Scheme will be lowered by 12 scripts for pensioners and concession card holders and the equivalent of two scripts for non-concession card holders.

Address: 108 Mort Street Toowoomba Telephone: (07) 4659 5476 Email: admin@qualitylifestylesupport.com Respite care, Community Access and In Home Care are provided to people in innovative and flexible ways working within the principles and guidelines of the Disability Services Act and NDIS guidelines Director: John Hart ABN: 43 092 474 872

We encourage client input and control over the service they request.

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WhatsUp

Community

WhatsUp in Disability Magazine Pricing Due to our increased sponsorship we are pleased to advise our readers that the price of the magazine has been reduced from $5.50 to $2.00 for the hardcopy incl postage. You can download and print a copy from our website. The Queens Park Market started as a fundraiser for St Vincentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospital. It was first hosted beneath the Laurel trees in the upper part of the park, but after its popularity grew, it moved down to Frogs Hollow to enjoy the flatter ground and to make more room for the growing number of market stalls that lined up to join the popular Sunday Markets. Now that the upper part of the park has been updated with accessible toilets, additional parking, accessible childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s playground, concrete paths and plenty of shady areas, we have applied through CR Joe Ramia and the Toowoomba Regional Council to move back to this area. Stallholder sites are available for $30 for a 3 x 3 metre site To find out more about the Queens Park Markets, visit them on their new website or Facebook sites: Facebook: @queensparkcraftmarket

Web: www.queensparkmarket.com.au Email: hello@queensparkmarket.com.au Email: queensparkmarkets@gmail.com Or call us here at WhatsUp

WhatsUp In Disability (the Magazine) First published in 1994 to give local people with disabilities and carers, information on a growing multitude of local disability services, local news and issues, with the purpose of not only supplying information to people with disabilities, but of giving choices to people and to give local services a specialist media outlet where they could give information on their services. To obtain a copy of WhatsUp in Disability magazine or to be an advertiser, please call in and see us at the WhatsUp in Disability office at 4/33 Bell Street or the Paul Myatt Community Centre 11-15 Alexander Street Toowoomba or call us on 4632 6678.

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Down Syndrome Support Group Inc. (Toowoomba & District)

Offers people with Down Syndrome and their families an opportunity to make contact with, and to meet other people in a friendly and inviting environment. Contact: President Kara Wren Mobile: 0439 661 349

Radio 102.7 FM Community Radio 40th Year From humble beginnings in a room at the Darling Downs Institute of Advanced Education, now the University of Southern Queensland (USQ), 102.7 FM now operates from their building at 1 Scholefield Street in the Toowoomba CBD. “I started back in 1980 at the USQ doing a folk program,” remembered current President and Presenter Pat Menz. “We used to get the media students to do a 10-minute news bulletin for us each day.” “We really are like a family down here and we have a lot of fun too.” “I had a 79-year-old-teenager come in the other day to renew her membership.” “We’re always looking for new members and, of course new sponsors.”

Become a Radio Presenter Still thinking about Resolution for 2020?

your

New

Year's

Why not become a volunteer and presenter at 102.7FM! You don't need to have any prior experience. Training is provided, and we will support you to become a community broadcaster. There are lots of ways to get involved at 102.7FM. Not only you can go on air with your very own radio show, but you can also help us in other areas behind the scenes so if there's a skill you'd like to contribute to 102.7FM - let us know! To volunteer at the station and get more information, please get in touch with us via Facebook and Instagram or call us after 6th January on 4638 4171 between 9am and 12pm Monday to Friday.

Why is Community Radio Important? Community radio is important because it provides a service to the community that commercial radio doesn’t. Within our organisation we have many different organisations and community groups (health, sporting, etc).

Community radio is also a place where our politicians can come and talk to the people. One of our principles is inclusion and including as many people from different backgrounds and demographics as possible. Community radio is for everyone! WhatsUp in Disability

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Warrina Services is a specialist support agency that has been providing individual support to people of the Darling Downs since 1986. We support people with a diverse range of needs and also provide mental health services to assist personal recovery. We can help you to achieve positive outcomes in your life. These may be related to choice and independence, education or training, attending social activities, increasing skills, getting a job or contributing to your community. If you would like further information please visit our website

www.warrinaservices.org.au Or contact us Phone: 07-46 380 399 Email: warrinas@warrinas.com.au or visit our office at

172 Bridge Street Toowoomba Office hours Mon-Fri 9-5pm

Employment Services Supporting people with a disability to gain and maintain employment that is valued by the client, the employer and the community. 3 Finchley Street PO Box 1715 Toowoomba QLD 4350 P: (07) 4688 3900 F: (07) 4688 3911 employment.toowoomba@uccommunity.org.au www.uccommunity.org.au/employmentservices

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Reduce Stress: Switch Off “Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes, including you.” Anne Lamott

Take time to switch off your devices During Mental Health Week this year, one of the stops along the way on the Hop-on Hopoff Bus Tour was the Cedar Centre. While there we were reminded of the importance of taking control of the devices in our lives instead of letting them take control of us. Here are some facts and tips to help you create a healthy mental balance in this electronic world.

Switching Off The solution seems simple but it’s by no means easy. To start with there are a number of apps out there specially designed to help you limit your screen time. Some of these are:

• Offtime • Flipd

• Moment-Screen Time Control • Breakfree

• 84% of mobile phone users claim they could not go a single day without their device

• 67% of mobile phone owners check heir phone for messages, alerts and calls— even when their phone doesn’t ring or vibrate

• Studies indicate some mobile device owners check their devices every 6.5 minutes.

• Researchers discovered that one in three people felt worse after visiting Facebook and more dissatisfied with their lives.

All of these apps are designed to help you limit and manage your screen time in different ways and are available in both iOS and Android. Or better still

• Take a walk without your phone • Go ‘oldschool’ with a pencil and notebook

• Set yourself a ‘screen free time’ once a day. Start small (10-20 mins) then increase it a bit every day.

WhatsUp in Disability

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Sunflower Lanyard This is my little family on holiday to Spain back in June. The sunflower lanyard around my neck is not a new fashion trend. This is a symbol at airports to alert staff that a passenger has a hidden disability and may need adjustments made for them. For example, at Malaga airport a security guard spotted the lanyard around my neck and escorted us straight through to special assistance so that we didn’t have to queue to get through security. For children who like to line things up ironically a lot of autistic children find queuing impossible. Supermarkets are now trialling the use of sunflowers lanyards too. I hope that more places will follow suit. My message is if you see someone wearing a sunflower lanyard just be aware that they or someone with them may have a hidden disability. They may not be throwing a tantrum because they didn’t get to have a biscuit. They are likely having a complete sensory meltdown - not by choice but because they are overwhelmed. Perhaps you could do a good deed and allow them to jump ahead of you in the queue. Or allow them a little more space. I’m not saying we need preferential treatment or to bend the rules - I am saying sometimes small adjustments can and should be made and will go a long way to

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making that family’s experience a little easier that day. Please tell people about the sunflower lanyard scheme - sharing is caring. And the more people who are aware the more awareness will be raised.

Autism Training for Police Australian police are being trained to improve interactions with people with autism SBS News by Amelia Dunn

Being pulled over for a routine random breath test shouldn’t be a reason for anxiety. But for Emma Gallagher, who has autism, interactions with police can become difficult, quickly.

“The way police communicate is not exactly developed for people like me,” the 31-yearold researcher from Sydney told SBS News. Emma recounted the time police asked her if she’d had anything to drink. “To an autistic person who takes things literally, I'll say 'yes' because I've been drinking Coca-Cola, but what they actually mean is 'have you had an alcoholic drink?'” “So when that misunderstanding comes out, they think you're being a smart alec, or you're being cheeky, but actually that's just how we communicate.” According to Autism Spectrum Australia, one in 70 people in the country are on the autism spectrum, meaning police officers often come across someone who may need an extra level of understanding during interactions.

That’s why researchers at the not-for-profit organisation, including Emma, have created the nation’s first autism training module for police. They hope it will help police identify possible behaviours of someone with autism and teach strategies to minimise the likelihood of unnecessary escalation. The 30-minute video module goes through example scenarios in which a police officer may interact with someone with autism, from routine traffic stops to a "meltdown" when someone becomes overwhelmed by their current situation and temporarily loses behavioural control. After each video is played, officers must select what they believe are the right answers. The Australian Federal Police, New South Wales Police Force and ACT Policing are all currently trialling the training module and Victoria Police said it plans to make it available for all frontline officers in 2020. Autism Spectrum Australia's national research manager Vicki Gibbs said training police to recognise certain signs - including poor eye contact, repetitive body movements and sensitivity to lights and sounds - will help avoid misunderstandings. “The stories we’ve heard from people is being misunderstood as potentially drunk, potentially on drugs, being obstructive, or difficult, when that wasn't what was going on at all,” Ms Gibbs said. “It's just this opportunity for police to have another possibility in their head about someone who is acting in a way that is perhaps not what they're expecting.” Emma is one of eight adults with autism who appear in the video and said the organisation made sure people with autism were included in every part of the process. Emma showing the can of Coke

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School Leaver’s Guide

If you’re a young person who has recently left school or plan to leave school soon then the DISCO School Leaver’s Guide is a resource that can help you. The guide is complimentary if you are leaving school this year but if you didn’t get a copy and would like one, they are available from all DISCO offices. The Guide is full of information to help young

people with key areas like resumes, cover letters, preparing for interviews and what to do to be ready for work. The guide comes with a link to the school leaver website at www.schoolleaver.org.au which is loaded with additional information to help you. To obtain your copy simply call DISCO Toowoomba office on (07) 4638 3088.

Unilever closes Weis factory just 2 years after purchasing it Toowoomba Regional Council mayor Paul Antonio told WhatsUp that the news of the closure came as a shock. “That is devastating news,” he said “I just think that’s so sad”. “The loss of 93 jobs in a place like Toowoomba is significant. Our thoughts are with those who’ve lost their jobs. Given this is an iconic organisation that was really putting Toowoomba on the map, I’m a bit shocked by it.” WhatsUp in Disability

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WhatsUp

Australia Day Celebrations The free festivities are an ideal way to join fellow Aussies to celebrate our good fortune to live in this great part of Australia and reflect on our achievements.

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in January

WhatsUp

in February

Sunday 16th February 8 amâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;1 pm Queens Park Lindsay Street Toowoomba

To spread the word about your next event contact WhatsUp on (07) 4632 6678 or email admin@whatsupindisability.org

WhatsUp in Disability

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WhatsUp

mycommunity www.mycommunitydirectory.com.au

Toowoomba Regional Skills Investment Strategy Project The Toowoomba Regional Skills Investment Strategy (RSIS) project is an initiative between Toowoomba Regional Council and the Department of Employment, Small Business, and Training to identify current and emerging jobs, and to ensure there is a supply of skilled local people to meet this demand. The Toowoomba RSIS project will set up a network to provide information and assistance to businesses about training and skills funding and opportunities. Additionally, it will set up industry advisory groups to develop training and funding solutions for local employment and skills needs. Industries:

• Transport and logistics • Advanced manufacturing • Health and social assistance The Toowoomba RSIS Project can help your business if you:

• Have difficulty navigating what funding is available for training, and how to access it.

• Struggle to find training programs to meet your employees’ training needs

• Need assistance with selecting training

providers and negotiating your needs to get the best return on your training investment

• Have staff with out-of-date skills for your changing industry

• Struggle to find staff with the skills to meet your clients’ demands

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WhatsUp is a member of the Industry Advisory Group As a member we will be:

• Identify demands for skills, and where skills shortages may be in future

• Recommend industry led solutions to address these issues

• Provide recommendations to customise Queensland Government training funding.

• Promote local training programs and initiatives

Regional Skills Plan As part of this plan we will:

• Collect data and intelligence on local skills and employer needs

• Develop an industry focused and industry led plan to resolve local skill shortages, updated quarterly

• Identify demands for skills, and where skills shortages may be in the future These actions will help build the future workforce of Toowoomba. For more information contact: Kyle Quinlan Coordinator RSIS Project Phone: 131 872 Email: info@tr.qld.gov.au

WhatsUp

New to disability?

First Points of Contact Centrelink Payments and Services

132 468

Carers

132 717

Disability Support Pension

132 717

Health Care Card

132 490

Family Assistance

136 150

Indigenous Call Centre

1800 136 380

Emergency Crisis Payment

132 850

NDIS General Enquiries

1800 800 110

NDIA Toowoomba Office

07 4592 4057

Local Area Coordinator

07 4646 2800

Medicare General Enquiries

132 011

Pharmaceutical Benefits

132 290

MyGov Help Desk

132 307

Queensland Government

Toowoomba Disability Information Office

Child Safety

07 4699 4255

Disability Services

07 4615 3900

Toowoomba Hospital

07 4616 6000

Department Housing

07 4699 4400

Community Groups Carer Advisory Service

1800 242 636

Carer Respite

1800 059 059

Open Monday to Friday

Lifeline Darling Downs

1300 991 443

(core times 9:00am to 3.00pm)

Relationships Australia

1300 364 277

A question on disability or a service you require? Try us, most of our volunteers have a disability themselves and will be glad to assist you. If we canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t help, we will refer you elsewhere. JP services are also available 11-15 Alexander Street Toowoomba

There are a number of support groups for most disabilities available in this region. Contact WhatsUp in Disability on: Phone: 07 4632 6678 Email: admin@whatsupindisability.org

(07) 4632 6678 A volunteer disability service organisation run by people with disabilities

WhatsUp in Disability

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WhatsUp Executive Team

PUBLISHER: Disability Media Association Inc (Australia) (DMAA) TELEPHONE: (07) 4632 6678 OFFICE:

Shop 4/33 Bell St Mall Toowoomba (Bell St Mall) (open Monday to Friday 10:00am-1:00 pm)

POSTAL ADDRESS: PO Box 3621 Toowoomba Qld 4350 E-MAIL: admin@whatsupindisability.org MANAGEMENT BOARD: Steven Paull (President) Liz Schneidewin (Editor) Tasha Grundon (Secretary) Ann Paull (Treasurer) ADMINISTRATION: Tasha Grundon, Alyssa Storm and Bec McDermott CONTRIBUTORS: Liz Schneidewin, Bronwyn Herbertson, Sharon Boyce, Steven Paull and many more. PUBLISHED January/March/May/July/September/November ABN: 72 821 350 911

STEVEN PAULL President

PRINT POST APPROVED: PP 424022/ 1811 DISCLAIMER/INDEMNITY Articles and adverts reproduced on these pages are accepted and published in good faith. It is a condition of acceptance that advertisers and article writers accept full responsibility for their advertisements and articles, and will fully indemnify the producers in the event of any claims or legal proceedings against them. Articles published are not necessarily the view of the publishers. Advertisements are also accepted on the basis that they do not conflict with any discrimination laws or other laws currently in force. ADVERTISING

LIZ SCHNEIDEWIN Editor

Although we are a volunteer and non profit organisation, we are not funded in any way, and have to cover costs of this publication by charging for advertising. WWhatsUp reserves the right to adjust, resize or move advertisements when necessary to allow for editing

WhatsUp IS AVAILABLE FROM: 1) SUBSCRIPTION (In advance) $18 per year (includes postage). 2) A single edition of WhatsUp can be bought at the office and selected outlets. You may also subscribe by using the form on the outside cover. 3) Reference copies are held in the Tourist Office and Toowoomba Library. COPYRIGHT

TASHA GRUNDON Secretary

Copyright Protected. All pages are subject to copyright law and may be copied only with the permission of DMAA. Copies are not to be used commercially or for profit or for personal financial gain. Permission may be granted to copy only if the purpose is to give it away to others for their personal interest but not to any other organisation or service. DISCLAIMER

All articles are accepted in good faith and are not necessarily the view of the Editorial team or Management. Articles are accepted on the understanding that in the event of any claims against WhatsUp, the writer of the article will take full responsibility and indemnify WhatsUp in the event of legislation against it. Articles are also accepted on the understanding that the contents do not breach any Disability laws or other legislation currently in use. ENVIRONMENTAL FRIENDLY/ COPYING

ANN PAULL Treasurer

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WhatsUp In Disability is provided as a Master Copy to individuals and organisations. We are environmental friendly, we do not print any more copies than is absolutely necessary. We prefer and encourage the practice of passing the magazine from person to person or copying the whole magazine to pass on to others. Permission is needed to copy (see Copyright above) When copying the magazine we require that the pages be marked â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;copyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;.