Link Disability Magazine April-May 2022 by The Intermedia Group

April/May 2022 | Volume 32 Issue 2 linkonline.com.au $9.95AUD / $11.50NZ

Therapy dogs like Bazza... lead to independence in children with autism

In this issue:

ATSA Expos full program guide / Tom Gleisner reflects on ASD / The latest developments in autism research / New offerings in mobility / Browse our book list / Events calendar

Australia’s foremost assistive technology event

BRISBANE

MORE THAN 120 EXHIBITORS

11-12 MAY 2022

ROYAL INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION CENTRE RNA Showgrounds, Brisbane

SYDNEY

25-26 MAY 2022

SYDNEY SHOWGROUND Sydney Olympic Park Halls 5 & 6

NOW

FREE Entry, Seminar Program &

1300 789 845 www.atsaindependentlivingexpo.com.au Organised by

Media Partners

Inside

From the Editor

06-07

Cover Story The power of puppy love

16-17

TV Presenter Tom Gleisner – Learning Without Difficulties

20-44

Autism Feature

45-51

ATSA Program Guide

76-79

Employment

Happenings – Fun at FARA Gala Night

81 linkonline.com.au

Publisher

Simon Cooper

Editor

Kymberly Martin kymberly@intermedia.com.au

Contributor

Caitlin Maynard maynardcaitlin@gmail.com

Advertising

Michelle Stevens mstevens@intermedia.com.au 0419 822 717

Design

Sarah Vella

Prepress

Tony Willson

Production Manager Jacqui Cooper

To subscribe visit www.intermedia.com.au P: 1800 651 422 or E: subscriptions@intermedia.com.au www.linkonline.com.au Link is published six times a year by Interpoint Events Pty Ltd. ABN: 9810 451 2469 A: 41 Bridge Road, Glebe NSW 2037 P: +61 2 9660 2113 F: +61 2 9660 4419 Reprints from Link are permitted only with the permission of the publisher. In all cases, reprints must be acknowledged as follows: ‘Reprinted with permission from Link Magazine’, and must include the author’s byline. The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of the publisher. The Intermedia Group takes its Corporate and Social Responsibilities seriously and is committed to reducing its impact on the environment. We continuously strive to improve our environmental performance and to initiate additional CSR based projects and activities. As part of our company policy we ensure that the products and services used in the manufacture of this magazine are sourced from environmentally responsible suppliers. This magazine has been printed on paper produced from sustainably sourced wood and pulp fibre and is accredited under PEFC chain of custody. PEFC certified wood and paper products come from environmentally appropriate, socially beneficial and economically viable management of forests. The wrapping used in the delivery process of this magazine is 100% biodegradable.

From the Editor

ust as we were beginning to emerge from the Covid ‘experience’ many parts of NSW and Queensland were hit by rainfall of biblical proportions and then the crisis in Ukraine. As a friend said to me recently…“one does not know what is going to happen next… but we must hold onto our sense of humour and try to keep smiling.” Our Cover Story I hope will make you smile. Willa and Bazza make delightful and inspiring reading. There is also our autism feature with articles from researchers around the country contributing information and updates on ASD, starting on page 20. TV presenter Tom Gleisner reflects on his autism journey with the Learning to Life autism centre he and his wife have established. Read more on pages 16-17. By the time this issue is released the date for the Federal Election in May will hopefully have been announced. In the lead up to this, the Australian Autism Alliance is calling on all major political parties to make a commitment to the ‘Shifting the Dial on Autism’ to improve the lives and outcomes for all people with autism and their families. This includes the development and funding of a National Autism Strategy, convening an ‘Autism and Covid Summit’ in 2022, developing a national roadmap to improve the health and mental health outcomes for autistic people and ensure an enduring and effective NDIS. The full version of ‘Shifting the Dial on Autism’ is available for download at https://tinyurl.com/2p82pub2. Visit the ‘Federal Election 2022 – Shifting the Dial on autism Social Media Resources’ at https://tinyurl.com/2ka5ke48 to access the social media resources. Kymberly Martin | Editor kymberly@intermedia.com.au

Like us on Facebook /linkdisabilitymagazine

April/May 2022

linkonline.com.au

FOCUS ON ABILITY

www .focusonability.com .a u

Link to...Cover Story

Paws for thought

How Dog-Assisted Therapy helped Willa, who has autism, become more independent.

OT Kate Veryard with Willa and Bazza

id you know that Australia has one of the highest dog ownership rates worldwide? Perhaps it’s no surprise that Australians are embracing Dog-Assisted Therapy and this type of therapy has surged in popularity, especially among autistic children. Children such as eight-year-old Willa is receiving Dog-Assisted Therapy through Kites Children’s Therapy based in WA. It's a sister brand to Guide Dogs WA, so all the dogs in the program are raised and trained to an exceptionally high standard. Highly accredited dog instructors ensure every therapy dog meets strict training standards, including the right temperament and working style. The

April/May 2022

dogs have certain qualities to make them suitable for this therapy. All of them are highly affectionate and enjoy human interaction.

independently. It was nature’s nuances that gave her the most joy, just as seeing how she could reflect the sun on sequins to create fairy lights.

NDIS therapy provider, Kites Children’s Therapy, started Dog-Assisted Therapy in 2020 with just one dog, a black Labrador called Bazza. Two new therapy dogs, Melba and Ernie, have since entered the program and a fourth dog Onyx, is now in training because the program is so much in demand.

“It has always been very important to me that Willa receives play-based therapy that draws on her strengths, preserves her autonomy and engages her passions. Willa loves animals and is an avid Pound Puppy toy collector, so Dog-Assisted Therapy seemed like the perfect marriage of fun and support.”

Willa’s mother, Emma, was keen to explore Dog-Assisted Therapy after learning it was available in WA.

Occupational therapists incorporate the therapy dog to help children reach their own goals. These can vary and often include improving social skills, learning about emotional regulation, turn taking, pretend play and developing motor skills.

“It was clear from early on that Willa was as unique (and as beautiful) as her name. She would happily play

COVER STORY

“Each session was a beautiful balance of predictability and novelty. The autistic side of Willa loves predictability, yet her highly imaginative side craves novelty. Predictability was ensured in that there was a visual schedule for Willa to follow and each session followed a similar script. Yet each week there was a new theme, so every session had huge novelty factor for her.” Willa’s confidence grew so much that she started writing a book called ‘The Adventures of Bazza’. She had always disliked writing and this was one of her goals at the start of DogAssisted Therapy. “I love coming here, dressing him up, and snuggling up close to him. He can do cool tricks, give me his paw and sit. Since we have been playing together, I can write stories easily. It was great writing the book with Bazza, snuggling up to him, made it easier,” Willa said. The program is ideal for children and teenagers with disabilities and developmental challenges. The therapy sessions are more engaging and entertaining than traditional therapies as occupational therapist Kate Veryard, who works with Bazza said.

talk about holidays and explore how Bazza would prepare for it. Willa would pack a suitcase for him. On another occasion, Bazza would go to school, so we would dress him in a mortarboard and talk about what he’d be doing at school.”

“Having Bazza in the sessions provides a fun, relaxed and supportive environment while also helping to build rapport between therapist and child. Bazza’s beautiful nature, his fun and occasionally cheeky behaviour creates a shared experience and services as a great ice breaker and conversation starter.”

The play sessions and activities encouraged Willa to practice her fine motor skills and build upon her confidence.

Kate’s colleague, fellow OT Nat O’Neill said it’s beneficial in many ways. “The human-animal bond is unique. This dynamic is amazing to watch in the therapy sessions and has to be seen to be believed.” Kate said the therapy sessions with Bazza provided an opportunity for improved social interaction and play. “We wanted to follow Willa’s lead, so we would develop scenarios to draw on her fantastic imagination and creativity,” she said. “For example, we

One of the most beneficial sessions centred on Willa, her sister, and her parents moving house, an event that happened in real life. Willa had become anxious ahead of the move, so to alleviate her fears, Kate introduced the concept of Bazza moving house into one of her sessions. As a result of the sessions, Emma has seen her daughter become more independent. “Bazza was so calm and gentle that she could let her guard down and really engage with him. Willa has a very nurturing soul, so she loved the activities where she had to cue into Bazza’s needs and help care for him,” she said.

Emma has been so pleased with the results from Dog-Assisted Therapy that Willa is continuing with this therapy. “Sometimes when you’re taking your child from therapy to therapy, you can feel like you’re depriving them of a childhood. Dog-Assisted Therapy seemed less like therapy and more like genuine fun. I think it also focused on helping Willa to be successful rather than trying to change her behaviour which is what it’s all about because we don’t want to change Willa. She is a creative wunderkind, a sensitive soul and a little rascal. What more could a Mum ask for?” Kites Dog-Assisted Therapy program is one of very few offered in Western Australia and the only one offered in Tasmania. It helps children build their social participation and communication skills, emotional, and sensory regulation. It also promotes fine and gross motor and coordination skills. Each session lasts an hour and involves the child, therapist, therapy dog, and parent or caregiver. For more information about this type of therapy, go to www.kitestherapy.org.au/DAT linkonline.com.au

Link to...News

Creative approaches in research: Puppets show the way By Dr Olivia Karaolis

wo recent studies demonstrate how the creative arts can be useful in designing research with children and young people with autism. The Yale Child Center explored the potential of puppets as a tool to increase the attention of young children with autism in social interactions. According to Sydney University Faculty of Education and Social Work teacher, Dr Olivia Karaolis many children with autism show a significant decrease in their attention to the faces of other people, that impacts the quality or meaningfulness of their social experiences as well as their learning. “This study is exciting as it suggests that a puppet may be an effective intervention to promote and

April/May 2022

increase social interactions that can support relationships that suit the communicative preferences of children with autism and of course other children too,” she said. Another study is Playing A/Part. An interdisciplinary project from the universities of Kent and Surrey in the UK, used a range of approaches drawn from drama, music, media arts and psychology. Girls between the ages of 11 to 16 were invited to take part in a range of creative activities that also included puppetry as well as improvisation, music, storytelling and collaborative media production. Due to the pandemic the research was moved online.

“The participatory nature of this project is beautiful and one that recognises and values the views of the young people in the study,” Karaolis said. Through these processes, the researchers hope to learn more about the lived experience of girls and young women with autism and address the lack of research and awareness impacting this population. “Studies like these can influence the practice of teachers and other professionals and make our society more inclusive of all.” Read more on Autism in our feature starting on Page 20. Dr Olivia Karaolis teaches at Sydney University Faculty of Education & Social Work.

Mable is a website where people living with disability can find and connect directly with independent support workers. By joining Mable, you’re able to: Choose your independent support worker from over 10,000 people offering care and support services.

Choose which services you need from the wide range people offer through the website.

Choose when you receive those services so you can fit the support to your schedule.

Choose with confidence knowing all workers have the relevant Police and reference checks.

www.mable.com.a u Scan the QR code to learn more, or visit mable.com.au

Link to...News

Your right to an inclusive education One of the key human rights issues facing the autism community is equal access to education.

ccessing education can look relatively simple on the face of it. You enrol in an “educational institution” such as a preschool, school, university or tertiary education provider and off you go! But equal access to education is about being included and able to participate in lessons and social activities. Autistic students have the right to receive the same quality learning everyone else does. The equal participation of autistic students in Australian schools is of great concern. There are two significant barriers that, in 2022, substantially lower any opportunity autistic students have to be treated equally. Without these barriers becoming overcome, it is impossible to see how

April/May 2022

autistic students can be included in Australian schools. The first concern is differentiating the delivery of curricula so that it is accessible to autistic students. For example, providing low sensory classrooms or using visual cues. This is crucial in moving away from removing autistic students from classrooms to learn separately or from seeing them excluded entirely. The second concern is effective and positive behaviour support in schools. Some of the most infamous legal cases regarding autistic students are where the student has been expelled due to “behaviour concerns”. Disproportionately, autistic students are indefinitely suspended or expelled

on this basis. It is incredibly difficult for families and autistic people to know where they can go to get a safe education when they are expelled or suspended. It can also have lifelong impacts on their educational journey, reducing their life chances to social and economic participation. We need to see our education systems reformed immediately to anticipate, rather than simply “accommodate” or fail to, the participation of autistic students in our classrooms and provide environments where they can flourish and learn equally with their peers. Natalie Wade. Founder and principal lawyer - Equality Lawyers PH: (08) 7084 1190 | E: natalie@equalitylawyers.com.au

Becoming an integral part of the team

NEWS

Wade finds a fresh start after pandemic redundancy.

ade loved his job as an administration assistant with the procurement team at a top university where he had worked for three years. Then Covid hit and Wade, like so many others, was made redundant. With glowing references in hand and a positive attitude, the Geelong job seeker kicked-off the job search in April 2020 supported by MatchWorks Disability Employment consultant, Ebony. Yet job opportunities were hard to come by as the pandemic continued to play havoc with the economy. Wade’s dedication was impressive, and the resilient job seeker undertook

several measures to improve his employability. He participated in three specialist MatchWorks programs for mentoring and tailored support, completed genU Training’s CAFÉ Hospitality course, and worked on improving his health with support from a MatchWorks health and wellbeing professional.

Culture Business Partner, Stephanie Bartley said.

Then the ideal employer partnered with MatchWorks for recruitment and disability training for their team.

“Suddenly I had a job and a new daily routine,” Wade said. “I was meeting new people which was great after the lockdowns as they were socially isolating. I feel more calm and stable now.”

“After watching a program on SBS, I learned that one in five people have some type of disability in the community and realised that the workforce needed to reflect this,” Integral Diagnostics People and

MatchWorks supported Stephanie to create the right role and find the best person for the job. Wade was the perfect match and in September 2021, he was offered an ongoing position as administrative assistant.

The employer is equally as happy, describing Wade as a ‘godsend’ and a delight to work with. He has now become an integral part of the team.

Connect today, change tomorrow. LET’S WORK TOGETHER TO FIND A JOB Is a health condition, injury or disability impacting your ability to work? At MatchWorks, we believe you can overcome any obstacle. When you choose MatchWorks as your Disability Employment Services provider, we work with you to find and reach your job goals. Together, we’ll get you working. P: 1300 13 23 63 wwmatchworks.com.au w.matchworks.com.au W: E: info@matchworks.com.au

linkonline.com.au

Link to...News

All Abilities Entertainment At the Just Live! Hunter Disability Expo

Connor Wink

he Hunter Disability Expo, a Covid-safe event is taking place on Friday and Saturday May 13-14 at the Newcastle Racecourse Broadmeadow. There are over 150 exhibitors with products and services that will greatly enrich your life, harmonise with your interests and requirements and maximise your personal wellbeing.

and optimism about writing your own story again. “Expo allows us to get access to really quality information and services so people can lead their life in whatever shape they choose,” the parent of one attendee said.

All in one place, the Just Live! Hunter Disability Expo provides opportunities to window shop for ideas, gather information and get a feel for the latest innovative programs, services, aids, disability equipment and technologies designed to enhance your life.

“When NDIS was first launched, people used to come to the expo feeling understandably nervous about how to utilise their funding to enhance their lives in meaningful and practical ways,” Hunter Disability Expo, spokesperson Kathryn Carey said. “Now, they understand how it works and take full advantage of the event to take charge of their future.”

Once again, you can ask questions in a face-to-face, unhurried environment, and enjoy the vibrant, friendly atmosphere and all-abilities entertainment over the two-day event. We guarantee that you will leave excited and feeling greater clarity

Expo emcee Mel Harrison, Founder of Sitting Low; Reaching High and ambassador Connor Wink are just two of the faces you will see at the Expo. Between 2014 - 2019 Connor has featured regularly on the Starstruck entertainment event in Newcastle and

April/May 2022

raised tens of thousands of dollars for Variety children’s charity with busking and fundraising activities. He had found his place as an artist and in 2020 was a finalist in Newcastle Live (Newcastle’s Got Talent program) and has been busy recording new songs for release. Come and see, feel, touch, and roadtest equipment, products and aids. Speak to the service providers and advocates so that you get a complete understanding of the possibilities. Are you hungry to choose your own adventure this year? If so, we will see you soon. Contact us to register and jump the entry queue at the Hunter Disability Expo, a FREE, COVID-safe event. Check out our list of exhibitors, parking and access information and download the free Whova app for stress-free event navigation. Available at www.hunterdisabilityexpo.com.au

ALL THE LITTLE THINGS THAT MAKE LIFE BIG

EXPO CALENDER 2022 13 & 14 MAY

17 & 18 JUN

hunterdisabilityexpo.com.au

goldcoastdisabilityexpo.com.au

5 & 6 AUG

2 & 3 SEP

sydneydisabilityexpo.com.au

canberradisabilityexpo.com.au

14 & 15 OCT

25 & 26 NOV

brisbanedisabilityexpo.com.au

melbournedisabilityexpo.com.au

My Future, My Choice 2022 Expo Program, presented by Impact Institute As restrictions lift and we get our first taste of real freedom, everyone is excited about the possibilities. The My Future, My Choice Expo’s are happening down the East Coast of Australia until the end of the year, with our Hunter Disability Expo up next on Friday 13 and Saturday 14 May at the Newcastle Racecourse Broadmeadow. It’s a great place to choose your next adventure and get back on the path to living life to the max. Entry is FREE for all attendees! Register via the Expo websites an initiative of

call us 02 9025 9380

events@impactinstitute.com.au

FRI 13TH & SAT 14TH MAY 2022 9AM - 3PM

FEATURING singer & songwriter

FREE ENTRY

CONNOR

WINK

NEWCASTLE ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE

www.hunterdisabilityexpo.com.au| All abilities, all inclusive Pre-Register Now | hunterdisabilityexpo.com.au HUNDREDS OF EXHIBITORS

GUEST SPEAKERS

LIVE PERFORMANCES

ALL AGES ENTERTAINMENT

Link to...News

A “passion for people and art” at work here Danielle is an independent support worker at Mable, specialising in supporting clients with autism. "There's a little boy with autism I'm currently working with through Mable, and it makes my day to see how happy he is every time I walk through the door. He will always run with excitement to show me new drawings and paintings he's done. Showcasing the skills and techniques I taught him, he then tells me about the artworks and why he made those creative decisions." With ongoing support, connections between Danielle and her clients can strengthen, bringing even more advantages for those receiving support. "Having organic relationships with clients and their families makes the support experience even more meaningful," she said. "Without those genuine connections, it isn't easy to understand the best ways to encourage positivity, growth and understanding.”

fter graduating with a Bachelor of Fine Arts, Danielle has blended her artistic practice into her work, to provide clients with a long-lasting positive impact. This creative mindset has helped inspire Danielle's journey to become a support worker as she looked for a way to give back to her community. "Support work allows me to connect my passions for people and art. It's a wholesome experience and means I start every day with a purpose," she said. "My goal is to help clients express themselves and have creative activities to learn from while having fun." Mable is an online platform that helps connect People with Disability to independent support workers like Danielle.

April/May 2022

"Mable's platform allows clients to express their needs clearly, and it's super-flexible," she said. "It's so easy to use Mable, and it means as a support worker I’m directly connecting with my clients or their caregivers." Using artistic flair in her work means clients continuously find new ways to self-express and create. "Art can help encourage clients with autism to express themselves healthily. I also believe art combined with creativity can significantly improve quality of life and happiness," Danielle said. After connecting with clients on the platform, Danielle prides herself on teaching skills, and the joy she takes in clients showcasing their abilities is evident.

Danielle also shared the most fulfilling element of her work on Mable with clients with autism. "It makes my day when my clients continue practising the skills and techniques I taught them in their spare time," she said. "They are always excited to show me new artworks and abilities they've developed independently. Seeing the impact of my work on not just the client, but also their family and loved ones, is the most priceless feeling." By connecting with independent support workers via Mable, selfmanaging and plan-managing NDIS participants could benefit from greater value, more choice and better control than traditional providers. To join Mable and start your search for an independent support worker visit: https://mable.com.au/

Your current to your new ordering experience

New

Plain to deliciously toasty

Direct It’s the little things we do that make all the difference. Order your Coloplast continence products direct through us and discover all the little things we do to make you all round better off.

To order your Coloplast continence products: www. coloplastcaredirect.com.au coloplastcaredirect.com.au 1800 316 651

Coloplast Pty Ltd, PO Box 240, Mount Waverley, VIC 3149 Australia www.coloplast.com.au The Coloplast logo is a registered trademark of Coloplast A/S. ©2021-10 CEX116a. All rights reserved Coloplast A/S

Link to...Profile

Learning without difficulties TV presenter and film maker Tom Gleisner and his wife Mary established the Learning for Life Autism Centre in 2004 to help children with autism access support. He spoke to Kymberly Martin about the difficulties those with ASD face, what motivates him, and one of his next goals that will come as no surprise for a Melbourne AFL fan!

April/May 2022

PROFILE

ackground to Learning For Life My wife Mary and I were moved to do something after seeing some very good friends negotiate the complex world of disability services for their son. What most struck us was the inequity. There were good autism programs out there, but they were very expensive. This was, of course, years before the NDIS so families were really left to fend for themselves. We heard of parents who sold the family home so that they could pay for early intervention therapies. One of the driving factors behind Learning For Life was trying to support as many kids as we could, regardless of financial circumstances. Challenges facing people with autism? As anyone on the spectrum will tell you, autism impacts people in different ways. Some struggle with speech, others might experience significant social anxieties. Every person faces their own unique challenges (and, of course, has their own unique strengths). This means that any support services need to be highly individualised and tailored to the individual and that doesn’t always happen. On the plus side, one of the great changes I have witnessed over the past decade or so is the growing awareness of autism. When we first started Learning For Life most people knew almost nothing about ASD. The best you could expect was for someone to make reference to the Tom Cruise character in Rain Man. Nowadays autism is far more mainstream and TV shows like Love on the Spectrum have had a lot to do with that. The NDIS? On some levels the NDIS has been amazing. When we first started Learning For Life there was no such broad funding available. Depending on where you lived, some families got a few thousand dollars a year. If they were lucky.

However, since the NDIS started we have been able to provide support for many new families who would have seriously struggled to access even the most basic of services. But. (There’s always a “but”!) Many families have not been able to access the level of funding their child requires.

We began by running home-based therapy for pre-school kids. I think in that first year we had about three or four families.

Some NDIS case workers do not fully understand the importance of early, intensive intervention. And there is obviously a ‘political’ push to reduce the percentage of NDIS funds going towards autism. Which is crazy.

Social-skills programs, we go into schools and teach the teachers on how to best support kids with autism, we advocate for better opportunities, hold parent support sessions, conduct research. I could go on. But it’s not a bad achievement for what started as a few parents and friends sitting round a table in 2004 trying to help out.

Any economist will show you that a dollar spent supporting someone when they are young will save hundreds of dollars over their lifetime. Any research, developments on the horizon for autism that look interesting? I think the biggest development for service providers such as Learning For Life is the importance we place on listening to people with autism. I love that phrase “nothing about us, without us”. In the distant past there was a tendency to paint autism as a “disease” that needed to be “cured”.

Nowadays thankfully we are a lot better informed. Yes, many people with ASD need targeted support, some more than others, but the real focus is on getting society to accept neuro-diversity and to celebrate different ways of seeing the world. Your greatest achievement? Seeing Learning For Life grow over the decades has certainly been a major source of pride.

Now, in addition to providing home therapy for dozens of kids, we run a huge range of other services.

On a professional level, I have been fortunate enough to be part of creating many memorable film and TV projects. Movies like The Castle and The Dish, TV series such as Frontline, Russell Coight, Thank God You’re Here, Utopia and Have You Been Paying Attention? I am very privileged that I get to work with friends across such a wide range of productions - something I will never take for granted. What motivates you? We love seeing the progress of the kids in our program. Whether that’s learning to communicate, mastering anxieties, developing social skills. There’s no actual “target”. We just want every child to be given the chance to reach their full potential. Your next goal? To help create a world where everyone is celebrated for their differences. And to see St Kilda win an AFL Grand Final. Is that asking too much? What do you do in your spare time? I took up golf a few years ago so a lot of my time is now taken up with looking for lost balls. I also love fly fishing and still head off with my colleague Rob Sitch whenever we get the chance. We made a TV series about fly fishing for the ABC once called A River Somewhere. I must say, it’s a lot easier fishing when you don’t have a camera crew following your every move. linkonline.com.au

Link to...News

Strategies to attract support funding for young adults living with autism By Dr Rachael Elliott Schmidt for young people living with autism. Stakeholders are the consumers of support programs, service providers and funding agents and all measure success differently.

oung adults who live with autism require dedicated support, skill training and time to acquire essential skills to contribute productively. Many require ongoing intervention offered by support programs (home and community-based programs) targeting essential workreadiness aptitude (work-skills and interpersonal behaviours). Measuring support intervention outcomes are often difficult to measure. By contrast, funded powered wheelchair outcome can be quantified by reduced care support expenditure and qualified by improved personal wheeled mobility and independent community participation. Convincing funding agencies to invest in support programs for those living with autism is fraught when success is measured by costefficiency parameters. Understanding who are the stakeholders and what motivates them assists justifying intervention funding

April/May 2022

1. Program consumers include the young person and their advocate families living with autism. Clarifying who’s deciding upon setting aims and goals for, or on behalf of, the young person is crucial, as they’ll define success. 2. Support service providers target intervention for personal growth, skill attainment and/or work-readiness, as prescribed. A consultant-prescriber such as an occupational therapist, advocates for individualised program funding aligned to specified outcomes. Both need defined intervention goals and program outcomes for funding application transparency. 3. Funding agencies oversee revenue management for widest resource distribution. Revenue source, via multiple members’ premiums or single government coffers, determines recipient distribution protocol and instructs funding application approach. Targeting funding applications across multiple stakeholder/group agendas requires strategic planning: •

•

Identification of stakeholder issues and needs: comprehensive assessment analysis exposures young person/family capabilities (strengths, abilities and weaknesses) to refine specific skill, needs, aims and goals as well as defining family goals to match best-fit program aims. Qualify young person and family essential requirements and goals within a timeframe. Define clear aims and goals: catalogue target skills accordingly

to young person aims (e.g., volunteer work) and family goals (e.g., greater communitybased engagement) along with progressive success markers. A collaborative approach to program evaluation might look like: Skill-personal independence using public transport Need-support training 2 hours x 2 days weekly for two months Aim-develop personal bus rider confidence Goal-reduce busy-parent daily driving reliance within two months Collaborative team approach: transparent working partnerships with consumers, service providers and funders help specify aims and goals to exact appropriate program/ intervention choices. Funding applications that depict co-operative teamwork expedite funding success and optimise outcome experiences. Smart outcome measurement process: an outcome-focussed funding application defines who and why this young person needs assistance and how intervention is evaluated. Smart funding applications propose comprehensive outcomes as: •

•

bottom-up outcome measure: e.g., consistent work-readiness program attendance 4/7 days by young person top-down outcome measure: e.g., reduce family reliance AND decrease home-based care support budget within six months.

Programmed review enables program adjustments and validates funding investment. Outcome measures that qualify young person/worker success (skills developed) and/or quantify goal attainment (successful work trial) with strategies to manage potential hindrances (increased skill-time ratio) assist funding decision approval.

Adelaide’s largest Disability & Ageing Expo is back in 2022!

he 2021 Disability, Ageing & Lifestyle Expo (DAL Expo) lived up to up to its name as Adelaide’s largest, most iconic disability and ageing community event. Over 190 businesses and organisations took the opportunity to have face-to-face interaction with an estimated 3700 prospective customers and supporters. The 2022 DAL Expo will be bigger and better. Feedback from visitors and exhibitors has been considered in the planning of the 2022 event: • A two-day event it allows more South Australians to gain access to up-to-date information and with the opportunity to connect with, and hear directly, from more than 200 businesses and organisations. • Larger pavilion: The Jubilee Pavilion at the Adelaide Showground is 8000sqm with more space for exhibitors. • Activities: Rolling stage performances and zones within the event, inspiring engagement with expo visitors. • New exhibitor networking sessions and exhibitor’s lounge allows participants to take a break and build industry connections throughout the event. • Sponsorship opportunities: New Event and Expo Partnership packages offer visitor/exhibitor activation opportunities to maximise exposure. Make the most of your participation at the expo and explore these options.

EXHIBITORS WANTED Exhibitor bookings are open for SA’s largest and most iconic disability and ageing expo in 2022

An exhibitors’ networking breakfast opens the DAL Expo on the first morning of the event, offering the perfect opportunity for the industry to get together prior to the expo opening in the neighbouring pavilion. The 2021 breakfast attendance broke records with 280 industry representatives joining the event (up from 180 in 2019), taking an opportunity to network, develop business opportunities and insights from other industry professionals. Exhibitors will be offered an extended opportunity to network post-breakfast in 2022. This FREE two-day event will be held at the Jubilee Pavilion, Adelaide Showgrounds, October 28-29- From 10am to 4pm Join us in exhibiting at South Australia’s largest and most iconic Disability & Ageing community event. Call the expo office now on: (08) 8168 8776. The DAL Expo is hosted by Catalyst Foundation.

Photo Credit: Cammie Besselaar & Belinda Shiell (via Wellness Gallery), Cliff Booth (via Pexels)

View the Expo floorplan on the DALEXPO website, pick your booth & call us to book

(08) 8168 8776 www.dalexpo.com.au

Link to...Autism-Pediatrics-Child Care

Gamified therapy for ASD How XRHealth is helping children and adults develop key skills using fun and engaging technology. Sessions are a fun way to get participants moving, while promoting social interaction, team bonding, listening and instruction following. Each participant selects an avatar and creates a name upon entering the group, ensuring privacy is maintained. One headset - many therapy options Additionally, participants can use the headset for one-to-one physiotherapy and psychology.

or autistic people, allied health therapies often play a vital role in supporting them to develop physical, social and communication skills. XRHealth are helping participants of ages 10+ access physiotherapy and psychology and achieve their goals using fun, highly engaging virtual reality (VR) tools. Virtual reality therapy and ASD VR therapy involves using VR technology to provide healthcare by creating a simulated interactive and immersive environment. Early studies exploring VR-based treatments in ASD have shown some promising results. A 2018 review found moderate evidence for its effectiveness, with the authors noting VR ‘can add many advantages to the treatment of ASD symptomatology’. At XRHealth, some things our patients said they liked about it include: • •

Ease of doing therapy because they enjoy gaming. Convenience of home-based therapy - no need to take kids out, April/May 2022

•

• • •

• •

limiting meltdowns, eliminating travel costs and providing therapy access in locations without services. Sessions are less confronting - for participants who dislike eye contact, the VR headset allows them to participate by just listening to the therapist. Another therapy option to increase engagement and combat boredom. Pricing below NDIS price guide recommendations, allowing more sessions within budget. Progress tracking - each patient has a data portal where they can track metrics relevant to their goals, such as reaction speed to track information processing or time spent in the game to monitor endurance. You can also download detailed reports with graphs. After school and weekend sessions available. Participants can use the headset to practise between sessions.

A safe space to develop physical and social skills In our Connect Group sessions, run by an experienced physiotherapist, participants use a VR headset to participate in group activities with others of similar ages, interests and physical abilities.

Where appropriate, physiotherapy sessions use it to improve physical endurance, flexibility and postural alignment in an enjoyable way. Our psychologists use VR technology alongside best practice theories aimed at reducing and healing the impacts of ASD and any associated mental health issues. For autistic people, VR can be especially helpful in combination with talk therapy as it allows breaks from verbal interaction, reducing the risk of anxiety and overstimulation, while facilitating movement and mindfulness. XRHealth - how therapy works in three simple steps 1. Initial assessment - one of our healthcare professionals will discuss your needs and determine your suitability for VR therapy in a livevideo appointment. 2. Your VR headset gets sent out for use throughout your treatment program. 3. Use your headset between sessions, with periodic guidance from your healthcare professional. To learn more or get started, call XRHealth on: 1300 907 815, or visit: xrhealth.com.au and schedule an intro call.

Gamified therapy for ages 10+ Physiotherapy and psychology services delivered via telehealth incorporating TGA registered virtual reality applications. Physiotherapy applications for improved balance, coordination, strength and cognitive function including memory recall, processing speeds and information processing. Psychology applications for building social skills, emotional regulation and for the management of stress and anxiety. Conditions treated include ASD, neurological disorders, chronic pain, stress and anxiety. Virtual reality headset supplied for the duration of treatment program.

wwXRHealth.com.au w.xrhealth.com.au

Call today 1300 907 815

Link to...Autism-Pediatrics-Child Care

Early Intervention Guideline scheduled for late 2022 release Developed according to the National Health and Medical Research Council’s recommended process. survey for anyone to complete about what people feel might be important to include in a clinical guideline.” He said the depth and breadth of the consultation has never been done before in Australia and represented an element for excitement and great optimism. The new guideline will be easier for clinicians to understand how they can adapt their practice to work within the clinical framework, for families so they know what to expect, and for policy makers to create policy settings that will interact and facilitate ethical practice in Australia. The guideline is being developed according to the National Health and Medical Research Council’s recommended process.

wide in scope and highly variable in terms of quality within the Australian community, ” he told Link.

According to Professor Whitehouse the guideline will be submitted for endorsement to the NHMRC at the end of 2022. If the guideline is approved, it will be valid for five years and then updated based on any research advances. “We hope the lead we are showing in developing this guideline can influence practice in other countries too.

Clinical guidelines are not just about reviewing the evidence in published research literature. Trying to understand what that evidence is, but how it can be applied in the context in which clinical practice is occurring. An equal element in developing clinical guidelines is understanding the views of clinicians and the context of children and families receiving community services, Whitehouse said.

“If we get autism practice right, we get a lot right in terms of disability support in Australia, and it will be a genuine landmark project for the country. One-third of all participants in the NDIS have been diagnosed with autism. The current NDIS reforms are a genuine game changer in the way it provides support to kids and adults with disabilities and the promise of it is enormous.

“To do that we carried out a consultation process that included surveys with clinicians and focus groups with family members, as well as people on the spectrum along with an open

“Clearly we are going through major teething troubles at the moment but that promise absolutely remains and if we get it right the country is going to be all the richer for it,” he said.

Professor Andrew Whitehouse

he first Early Intervention Guideline will be a “landmark moment”, project co-chair Professor Andrew Whitehouse said. Whitehouse, Professor of Autism Research at the Telethon Kids Institute and University of Western Australia, said Australia has never had a clinical guideline that provided a framework that defines evidencebased practice as it relates to autism early intervention.. “The guideline will provide a very clear line in the sand about what we define as good practice and what sits outside of that. It is an important moment in the history of autism practice in Australia. We need this guideline because autism clinical practice is incredibly

April/May 2022

AUTISM-PEDIATRICS -CHILD CARE

I loved Aspect’s adult program so much, I asked if I could work there! By Tom Broadley

en years ago, my mum enrolled me in an Aspect’s Adult Community Services (ACS) program in Hawthorn, Victoria. I was diagnosed on the autism spectrum at age 14 and didn’t do well at school. I was hesitant to join the community program because I didn’t feel like I needed it and my first day was stressful. But, after the initial first weeks I got to know people here. Everyone is so smart and friendly, and I realised how much I loved it here and all the fun activities. During Covid lockdowns, I thought a lot about what I would like to do

for employment, but I didn’t want a job where I couldn’t be a part of Aspect ACS.

give feedback on the types of programs we run. I also run trivia and co-run other activities.

There has been a joke that when new people or staff joined most thought that I was staff because I am supportive and like getting to know everyone. So, I asked if I could work at the centre, and they hired me as an autism liaison officer.

I think there were some positives from Covid, not just for myself but for participants attending Aspect too. It made us realise what we were missing and how much we like coming to the centre and seeing our friends.

Now, I support new participants when they join. I am able to guide them, especially if they feel nervous or anxious, so they feel comfortable. I get to know the participants and what activities they might like and

I love getting to know everyone so that I can understand what they are going through and can help. I fit in. Doing the job at Aspect feels quite easy to me. The staff have helped me to improve myself in every way and Aspect means a lot to me.

Join us in celebrating

World Autism Understanding Day on 2 April!

50+ years experience

Working in partnership with people of all ages on the autism spectrum and their families, we deliver individualised, evidence-informed services. Our staff are trained in both active support and autismspecific practices, and are focused on providing quality supports that fosters a positive and fun learning environment. Learn more about all of our services and job opportunities w.autismspectrum at ww autismspectrum.org.au .org.au

linkonline.com.au

How can Astris PME help you? As market leaders in special needs equipment in Australia, Astris PME can provide solutions that match the needs of people with a disability, and help therapists achieve the best outcomes for every client, in every age bracket. We have a huge range of trial equipment available so if you would like to make a COVID-safe appointment with one of our Specialist Consultants, trial equipment or enquire about any of the products and services we offer, please call us. We will be happy to help! PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

Manual Wheelchairs

Tilt-In-Space Wheelchairs

Powered Wheelchairs

Power Assist

Wheelchair Seating Systems

Alternate Seating

Positioning & Sleep Systems

Shower & Toileting

Exercise

Gait Training

1300 131 884

wastris-pme.com.au ww.astris-pme.com .au

Madita-fun Therapy Chair

Australia’s largest range of specialised Assistive Technology equipment and supports for 24hr positioning, mobility and care. DEALERS AUSTRALIA-WIDE

TIMO ODE High-low Activity & Feeding Chair

SCHUCHMANN TILL Height Adjustable Standing Frame

SCHUCHMANN Madita Fun High Low Indoor Seating

TIMO ELLA 3-in-1 & 4-in-1 Standing Frame

KLAXON KLICK Power Add-Ons

STABILObed Sleep & Positioning System

1300 212 192 www.apexmobility .com.au apexmobility.com.au

Link to...Autism-Pediatrics-Child Care

Nearly 60 years of knowledge now available online … thanks to Autism SA Autism SA is excited to bring to the community the Spectrum of Autism Resources website www.spectrumresources.com.au. This website content is based on a breadth and depth of knowledge, resources and trainings developed by educators, allied health professionals and autistic individuals. “This digital platform was developed also with our regional and remote communities in mind. The Spectrum of Autism Resources enables everyone to access the same training and resources so all have access to the same opportunities for learning,” she said. “The added bonus for being a subscriber to the website is that you have access to multiple workshops and resources all year round, instead of picking just one or two to attend each year.” SOAR is home to an extensive number of workshops and resources that can be immediately viewed and/ or printed as relevant and put to use in the home, the school or the clinic setting after subscribing to the platform and will continue to be expanded upon.

s the first organisation of its kind in Australia, Autism SA has a long history of providing autism specific training and resources to the autistic community, including holding the first National Conference on autism in 1967, operating the first autism-specific school in South Australia in 1974 and publishing the first autism journal in 1979. Today, its research and training arm continues to grow and remain contemporary. This includes research projects, annual autism international conference series and face-to-face workshops and live

April/May 2022

webinars, with a firm focus on inclusion in the community and the classroom. The Spectrum of Autism Resources (SOAR) compliments its research, trainings and workshops by offering additional information and the ability to access printable tools of the trade. Autism SA CEO, Jenny Karavolos said the vision for this resource was to make accessible to the community trusted knowledge and expertise via one single digital platform, building competency and capacity when you want it from anywhere.

The platform is available as a subscription, with different payment options for individuals and organisations – so you can find the best option to suit your needs. The resource can also be purchased with NDIS funding. At the completion of each module the user is also awarded with a certificate that can be used for recognition of Professional Development for teachers and allied health professionals alike. The Spectrum of Autism Resources website can be viewed via this link: www.spectrumresources.com.au. More information on Autism SA, including history, training options and other services and supports available can be viewed at our website: www.autismsa.org.au

Link to...Autism-Pediatrics-Child Care

Simply Helping People of All Abilities Around one per cent of people in Australia are autistic, and as our ability to efficiently diagnose autism spectrum disorder (ASD) develops, that number is likely to increase. We always aim to have the same support worker arriving to each visit at a consistent and scheduled time. We’ve found that this approach can help,” Feery-Richards said. Simply Helping also has a unique approach to supporting children living with disability, including ASD. “Many of the people with autism we support, especially younger ones, might struggle with separation anxiety or uneasiness about a support worker coming into their home. We take the time to match each person with a support worker who best suits their needs and personality. In the case of someone with separation anxiety, we might gradually introduce a new support worker into their lives, so they have time to adjust.”

SD affects many people in a range of different ways, and causes a profound impact for some, while being barely detectable for others. As we continue to expand our understanding of the autism spectrum and how it presents itself, it’s clear we should assess the way we support people with autism, too. One of Australia’s leading disability support providers, Simply Helping, spoke about their approach to supporting people with autism. Simply Helping, director and founder, Angela Feery-Richards, said: “Every person is unique, with their own feelings, goals, desires and needs.

April/May 2022

This is sometimes overlooked, but for us, it’s always been important that our support is as unique as the people we provide it to. We take a diagnosis like autism into account when developing a support plan, but it’s more about their personal needs and desires, as it should be.” Autism is a condition that can affect how people interact with others and understand the world around them. People with autism might have sensitivities or concerns that are not as apparent in someone who is neurotypical. “Often, routine can be very valuable for people with autism, helping them understand and anticipate what’s coming up in their lives.

But above all else, she said that a caring and compassionate support worker can make the most difference. “When we hire support staff, one of the most important things we look for is a kind, compassionate and caring demeanour, and it really does pay off. We know that some people with autism may be highly focused on hobbies or topics, and because our support workers are so caring, they love to get involved. Enjoying these hobbies together can have a big impact on the confidence of a person with autism,” she said. As a registered NDIS provider with locations in Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland, and Perth, Simply Helping is committed to providing flexible support to Australians of all abilities.

Simply helping you & your family

www.simplyhelping.com.au

Link to...Autism-Pediatrics-Child Care

The ‘great divide’ between disability and mental health Autistic people have unique challenges when it comes to their mental and there is a critical need for more professional training according to La Trobe University researcher, Dr Darren Hedley. He spoke to Kymberly Martin.

here is a “great divide” between disability and mental health and wellbeing services when it comes to autistic adults, Suicide Prevention Australia research fellow and La Trobe University senior researcher Dr Darren Hedley said. “The rates of suicide among autistic and the LGBTIQA+ communities is higher than in the general population, making these communities priority groups for suicide prevention,” he told Link. Globally we have estimated approximately 12,500 (possible range 5,000-24,500) autistic people lost their lives to suicide in 2019 and the risk seems to be higher in autistic females. “Along with Dr Damian Santomauro from the University of Queensland, we examined Global Burden of Disease data finding as much as a seven-fold increased risk of death by suicide in autistic people compared to the general population,” Dr Hedley said. And while there is no reliable data available on the suicide rates of autistic people in Australia, the researchers expect the numbers to be similar here.,” he said. “At the public health level, Australia is behind many other countries when

April/May 2022

it comes to improving knowledge and awareness of mental health, as well as suicide risk among the autistic population. We know that people with autism have gone to mental health services and been turned away or told to seek help from disability support,” he said. “The NDIS is a grey area and although it is possible to get some psychological services through the scheme people tend to get directed back to mental health clinics for support. There needs to be collaboration between mental health and disability services. Importantly, the mental health sector needs to see the mental health of people with disabilities, including autism, as core business.” A world-first website Dr Hedley and his colleagues from La Trobe University recently launched a world-first website with animated videos, information and tools on how to respond to suicide risk in others. The 12-step Suicide Response Project (www.suicideresponseproject.com) is freely accessible and was designed with, and can be used by people with autism, ADHD and intellectual disability. Next, the team plans to develop a professional portal for professionals working in the mental health sector, so that they may become more confident in working with autistic people who have mental health concerns. According to Dr Hedley, autistic communities have unique challenges when it comes to their mental health, often from lack of understanding, prejudice or bullying. He said very few professionals understand these challenges, and there is a critical need for more professional training. This also makes knowledgeable and supportive family and friends more critical in their

lives and the suicideresponseproject. com is aimed at giving these people the tools and skills to know what to do if someone is expressing suicidal thoughts or behaviour, or where there is some concern for their wellbeing. “The new website will help people better identify the warning signs and give them confidence to intervene in a safe and supportive way.” The website was launched at a recent Australasian Society for Autism research (ASfAR) Mental Wellbeing and Suicide Prevention in Autism conference, a world’s first conferment that focused specifically on autism and suicide prevention. The resources were designed by people with autism LGBTIGA+ people and their families as well as by people with lived experience of past suicidal behaviours. The website has 12 modules with different topics relating to suicide from identifying signs of psychological distress to how to make a plan to support someone who is at risk of suicide. The website also has downloadable fact sheets. Dr Hedley and colleagues have also developed two instruments for screening people with autism to help identity those who may be suicidal, comprising a screening tool and a clinical interview. These tools, similar to what is already being used in drug and alcohol sectors, is currently undergoing peer review and will become available for use in 2022. Professional organisations that are interested in participating in a trial of the tools can contact Dr Hedley by email at d.hedley@latrobe.edu.au

How “The Shift” helps me get through the day

auren is a model and regular writer for inclusive brand EveryHuman and lives with both visible and invisible disabilities. As a vocal disability and mental health advocate, Lauren hopes sharing her journey can help others going through a difficult time. Experiencing both generalised anxiety disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder, she explains how simple breathing techniques and tools such as The Shift have helped her. “I have been an anxiety sufferer for as long as I can remember. Generalised anxiety disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder for me has often meant that out of nowhere, I can have anxiety attacks and find it hard to breathe and ground myself during those moments. “The Shift necklace has been a great assist to me and many other anxiety sufferers. It is used to assist with

breathing techniques which can help reduce stress and anxiety symptoms. “You simply grab the necklace, breathe into it (making sure the end you have to breathe into is facing you) and that is all. It is recommended to treat this technique five times, but I found breathing in and out on counts of three to be most beneficial and then breathing out again. You can repeat this as many times as you like to alter it to your own needs and rhythm. When you feel like you need just a little bit of time out, The Shift provides a sigh of relief by focusing your attention on breathing and relaxing,” she said.

AUTISM-PEDIATRICS -CHILD CARE

tool that is discrete in design but high in impact. “Overall, I found the necklace to be a great tool to ease anxiety symptoms that is also very effective and easy to use.” The Shift necklace is available exclusively at everyhuman.com.au. Visit us for NDIS eligible sensoryfriendly finds. Contact us at info@everyhuman.com.au or call: 02 8437 1799.

According to Lauren you can take the necklace everywhere which is a real bonus, simply put it on and you’re ready to go. “It’s a great sensoryfriendly tool that is fantastic for anyone looking for an emotional regulation

Zip up and go! Easy on and easy off shoes for all abilities. Available now for kids and adults!

wweveryhuman.com.au w.everyhuman.com.au

linkonline.com.au

Link to...Autism-Pediatrics-Child Care

An Australian owned and run family business Helping people with a disability to achieve their goals. day-to-day rigours of life and meets the measurements from its rehabilitation technicians who work closely with the clients and its professional support team. This is to ensure that the chair is built with the preferred benefits of weight, manoeuvrability, postural support, comfort and the most important factor for so many, and not just the kids…colour. Over the decades of Dejay Medical’s service to the industry it has accumulated the highest quality of employees who care deeply about their jobs. One is factory manager, Mark an experienced fabricator and father of a child with disability who knows the importance of manufacturing accuracy and design from the client’s perspective and leads the team at the Smik factory. Mark’s new 3D printer has already created new and custom parts that quickly and easily overcome challenges that otherwise may take months to solve.

‘E

verybody is unique’. At Dejay Medical, for two generations and for over 35 years the Mason family have focused on this and channelled all its efforts into finding and supplying equipment that conforms to the lifestyle and requirements of its clients. Having access to equipment that grows and adjusts to the ever-changing needs of people of all ages with a disability gives the company the flexibility to truly support their client’s lifestyle. Equipment to sit in, allows you to stand, equipment to support your specific range of gait, equipment to hold your head up high, equipment to allow you to ride, or run like the wind, are all products it is proud to supply. This vast range of products that Dejay Medical supply only tell a part of its story. Being a local Australian

April/May 2022

manufacturer of custom wheelchairs and components in today’s multi conglomerate owned society is testament to the dedication that the company has to this industry. Dejay Medical imports the latest in mobility technology in the fields of gait training, standing, postural comfort and support, head control, disability tricycles, frame running and wheelchairs from the highest quality of suppliers from all over the world. However, when a solution is not available to clients then it strives to custom make something to suit their needs. ‘Smik’ by Dejay Medical is its local Aussie wheelchair brand that is 100 per cent custom made. Each chair starts as a length of steel and is hand bent, welded and reinforced in areas that really matter when it comes to the

No two wheelchairs are the same as no two clients are the same. Seeing a completed chair go out the door of the workshop and be fitted successfully always gives the team a feeling of joy that its clients life may be made a little bit easier. For Dejay, every custom job at the Sydney factory is the chance to improve a person’s life. The Dejay team have a wide range of solutions to help your family. Let our family see if we can help you. www.dejay.com.au Everybody is unique and Dejay Medical is here to help with Every Step, Every Stride, Every Movement, Every Stand, Every Action taken. At Dejay Medical, we embrace your uniqueness! Visit Dejay at the Brisbane (May 11-12) and Sydney (May 25-26) ATSA Expos.

we can get you rolling World leading brands in one place Custom Handmade Wheelchairs

HELPING YOU ACHIEVE YOUR GOALS 02 9838 8869 www.dejay.com.au therapy@dejay.com.au

Link to...Autism-Pediatrics-Child Care

Ambassadors For Autism Autism Awareness Australia is inviting people with autism to contribute to their Australian#AmbassadorsforAutism promotion for Autism Awareness Month. Launching on April 2, it carries with it the opportunity to be showcased across Autism Awareness Australia social media platforms throughout April and be part of the 2022 celebration of our autism community.

ach day in April Autism Awareness Australia will introduce a new ‘face of autism’ sharing a little about who they are, what they love and what makes them…well, them! This will be user generated content via a picture and story submission. It will be promoted across its social media platforms to give people the opportunity to meet these proud, diverse and impressive individuals. We’ve got some pretty great people to introduce but we want to meet and celebrate many more. What does autism mean in your life? Who are your #AmbassadorsForAutism? Send us your photo, tell us your story! What we would need from you is to tell us your story or your child’s story by submitting the following by April 20, 2022: Name: Age: What they love: What makes them…them: City they live in: Upload photo: Submit to: www.autismawareness.com.au

April/May 2022

AUTISM-PEDIATRICS -CHILD CARE

Etac have rebranded A new company name with the same high-quality products.

id you know that R82 have rebranded to Etac? In line with our global strategy of making it easier for customers to recognise and interact with us, we are rebranding our company from R82 to Etac.

our lightweight, posterior walking frame which originally came in three sizes.

You still have the same dedicated and knowledgeable sales representatives and customer service. Our priority remains the promotion of independent and safe participation in daily activities for all children and young adults who utilise our seating, standing, walking and toilet/bath products. As Etac we still provide our highly reputable paediatric product brands of R82 and Convaid with the products such as the R82 Crocodile, R82 x:panda and Convaid Cruiser. The R82 Crocodile is

Before

Etac now offer a unique R82 Crocodile Starter Kit, as modelled by Oscar, which allows the frame to be adjusted even smaller to suit little ones. It includes a height adjustable front brace, where the handles are placed closer to the body, a set of anti-tips for safety and a set of bolts to shorten the frame. With the help of our Stater Kit, Oscar instantly figured out how to walk forward using the support from the Crocodile. When the anti-reverse stop was unlocked, Oscar was able to use the Crocodile to walk in both directions. We will be at the Melbourne Source Kids Expo on Saturday the 18th and Sunday the 19th of June, and the

Brisbane Source Kids Expo on Saturday the 30th and Sunday the 31st of July. We hope to see you all there!

After

New company name Same high quality products We have rebranded our company from R82 to Etac. As Etac we still provide our highly reputable paediatric product brands of R82 and Convaid. You still have the same dedicated sales representatives and customer service team who will provide the best assistive devices for children and teenage independence and participation.

www.etac-au.com

linkonline.com.au

Link to...Autism-Pediatrics-Child Care

Coloplast Care Direct: A better way to order your Coloplast continence products Our new service, Coloplast Care Direct, was designed with you in mind, to provide you with an experience that makes ordering and receiving your Coloplast continence products as smooth and simple as possible, and with Care advisors available to provide personal support.

oloplast develops products and services to make life easier for people managing continence issues. We know that managing your continence is personal and can distract you from living your life to the fullest. Listening and responding to people’s needs is what drives our work. The valuable feedback we receive is used in the development and testing of new products and services. We spoke to users of Coloplast continence products and found that your current purchasing experience needed improving. Many of you were left frustrated with the level of service and support provided to you from the organisations where you purchased your continence products. “I’m often on hold between 15-45 minutes...” “It takes 7-10 days for my products to arrive” “They missed many things off my funding plan” “I email them to order my products, receive an invoice and then I need to send to my plan manager to upload… the process is a bit clumsy” Long wait times on the phone, slow delivery of products and a lack of product and personal support were affecting your experiences.

April/May 2022

Many that have already ordered through us have found that ease of use, level of support and speed of delivery are key improvements on what they previously experienced. “Everything - ease of purchase feedback regarding status of the delivery is excellent. Fast delivery and beautifully packed” “The person I spoke with had a broad knowledge of Coloplast products and how to match my needs with the right product” “I liked being able to have verbal contact with your pleasant staff, and not having to wait online. My delivery came quickly that gives me confidence for future orders” “We needed catheters ASAP, and they delivered them quickly and then followed up to make sure we had received them that day” With the addition of our Coloplast Care Direct service to our Care programs for catheter users and ostomates, and Care Clinical services, we now provide our customers with a holistic service offering with Coloplast Care. Enjoy the little things we do to make life better. You’re better off direct with us. Click here and start ordering your Coloplast continence products today: http://coloplast.to/care-direct

What can you expect when you order through Coloplast Care Direct? Easy Ordering: Your own personal Continence Care Advisor who has supported hundreds of people with continence needs, and free express delivery on all orders. NDIS Advice and Safety Net: Individualised NDIS support, product estimates, free access to clinicians and a product safety net* if your funds fall short. Supply Guarantee: Free alternative Coloplast product* if your Coloplast choice is temporarily unavailable. Insider Access: Exclusive access to Coloplast's latest product innovations, free product samples, product offers and complimentary gifts. One Tree Planted: Supporting reforestation and reducing your carbon footprint with One Tree Planted. *Terms and conditions apply

It’s easy to use According to 9 out of 10 users, caregivers and healthcare professionals who tried Peristeen® Plus1

Easy Connections New connectors that are easy to twist and lock

Easy Control Unit Design Knob raised for better grip and easy turning

Water temperature indicator Helps you to identify the correct water temperature for irrigating

Get back to the life you love with Peristeen® Plus If you’ve ever experienced bowel dysfunction, such as constipation or faecal incontinence, you’ll know that worrying about accidents can damage your confidence. That’s why Peristeen Plus is designed to help you stay continent for up to two days, so you can feel confident and in control again.

Get started with Peristeen Plus today: 1800 316 650

hthttp://coloplast.to/try-peristeen-plus tp://coloplast.to/try-perist een-plus Individuals will be assessed by a qualified Health Care Professional to ensure this method is appropriate for them.

Want to find out more about Peristeen Plus? Call our team on 1800 316 650 Our dedicated Care team have already helped many Peristeen users, so don’t hesitate to get in contact. 1. Coloplast, Peristeen Plus User, HCP Product evaluation usage (n=60), 2020.

TGA: ALWAYS READ THE LABEL AND FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE

Link to...Autism-Pediatrics-Child Care

Programs for when you need them most Curtin Autism Research Group (CARG) is one of Australia’s largest autism research groups, offering a broad range of programs that cross all diversities for children, adolescents and adults. A recent program developed by the team is autism/neurodiversity Mass Open Online Course (MOOC) is designed to support parents and caregivers develop skills to advocate for their child’s needs: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=80H7VNo4As4 https://www.edx.org/course/autismand-neurodiversity-building-yourchilds-strengths Another recent MOOC developed by the team was ‘talk to me’ with key topics such as understanding contributing factors to poor mental health and strategies to increase mental fitness (trigger warning clip talks about suicide): https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=5FgGps8n6aY https://www.edx.org/course/talk-tome-improving-mental-health The ‘talk to me’ program was rolled out last year with over 50,000 enrolled users enrolling internationally.

Milbourn has an eight-year-old son who is autistic and believes in the power of the social environment and the strengths and interests of the individual.

“In recent years, the number of people diagnosed with autism in the Australian community has increased and subsequently significant investment is required to deliver the best evidencebased information and services available for autistic individuals,” senior lecturer, Dr Ben Milbourn told Link.

“Whether you are a parent, a carer, or an employer, you have to tap into those strengths and interests. Using those strengths and interests may help make the most of the opportunities that are available to prepare for transitions in life including kindergarten to school, or from school to university and then to the workplace,” he said.

here possible, all research has a co-production element that includes employing autistic individuals with lived experience from the start of each project.

April/May 2022

“The program demonstrated the huge need for online mental health programs and skill development, especially in the given context of Covid-19,” Dr Milbourn said. CARG is currently recruiting for several research programs including an online autism-specific adult transition program: https://curtin.au1.qualtrics.com/jfe/ form/SV_3z6nSrOhjFI1d4i For more details on any of the studies or participating: ben.milbourn@curtin.edu

Wonsie - an Aussie bodysuit for kids and adults Happy, affectionate and fun-loving Caelus (aka Squishy) loves music, dancing and colourful lights, but also loves Wonsie, which is his go-to everyday piece of clothing. which specialises in bodysuits for kids and adults. “We initially bought them to prevent Caelus from taking his nappy off, but they quickly became his primary clothing items after seeing how comfortable he was in them,” his mother Kimmi said. “We love them for how easy they are to get on and off and the snap button access to change his nappies. They are durable, easy to use and most importantly, comfortable for Caelus,” she said. Caelus wears one throughout the day then changes into a fresh one for bedtime and they are great all year round. “He can wear them under other clothing in winter for extra warmth, and in summer the short sleeveless Wonsie suits are perfect for keeping cool.” Wonsie cotton bodysuits come in various styles suitable for all seasons. These include back zip jumpsuits to prevent unwanted undressing, tummy access styles for feeding tube access and the everyday basic styles, which are the ones which Caelus especially loves.

everal years ago, in order to find a solution to help him from removing his nappy, his therapist at Cerebral Palsy Alliance suggested the now 8-year-old Caelus, try wearing a bodysuit from Wonsie, an Aussie brand

& swimm

ers

Large bodysuits to assist everyday living • unisex onesies to help keep wandering hands out of nappies & pants • deters inappropriate undressing & other challenging behaviour • range includes back-zips, tummy access for tube feeding & swimwear • available in sizes for kids & adults

NEIMW R WEA SW

The Wonsie range are in hard-to-find sizes from 4 toddler to a large adult, so Caelus can rest assured that they will be available for him as long as he needs them. Wonsie have also recently expanded their range to include back zip swimsuits to ensure that no unwanted undressing or nappy access occurs at the pool or beach. Wonsie offers worldwide shipping and is a registered NDIS provider. And you can follow Caelus’s adventures on Facebook@SquishyCaelus

www.wonsie.com.au

Link to...Autism-Pediatrics-Child Care

Bridging the gap Journalist David Murphy who has autism, works as a Media Officer for the Victoria State Emergency Services. He produced panelist interviews and content for the recent ASfAR conference, and reflected on the event with Kymberly Martin.

his world-first conference brought health professionals, academics from the UK, US and Australia and contributors with lived experience of autism to discuss Mental Wellbeing & Suicide Prevention in Autism. The intention of the conference was to highlight the connection between autism and suicide. “The autistic person often relives their bad experiences through perseveration. This is compounded by the fact that a lot of people with autism have vivid memories of their worst experiences, which can contribute to suicidality.” Murphy said. “You can talk yourself into a suicidal state of mind, tormented by what you could have done differently. This can be compounded by comorbidities like intrusive thoughts, in which you relive your past over and over. If you are autistic and this sounds familiar, you are not alone."

April/May 2022

New research revealed at the conference showed that the risk of suicide to autistic people is at times seven-fold when compared to the general population, he said. “This can be attributed in part to ineffective intervention by healthcare professionals, who can be unaware that the outward signs of suicidal ideation in autistic people aren’t the same.

gender, because it’s about the nature of reality. To understand reality is to understand that, like beauty, it is in the eye of the beholder. For example, my eye is drawn to words. A vivid metaphor can mean a lot to me.”

“According to panelists at the conference, the autistic person might seem totally fine. But there are ways to discern that they are not, if they know what they’re looking for. This is why this conference was so important, because it brought together researchers who have discovered this with healthcare professionals, and people with lived experience of autism, to drive the conversation.”

A standout speaker at the conference was Lisa Morgan, author, researcher and co-chair of the American Association of Suicidality.

He said learning about neurodiversity can be a profound experience, and helps you to understand the human condition. “Perhaps more than race or

“Some people find a picture is worth a thousand words,” Murphy said. “For me, a thousand words can be worth more than a picture.”

She spoke about her experience of grieving for her autistic husband, when he committed suicide. Morgan then had a late diagnosis of autism. Her discussion of being on both sides of the issue was “incredibly revealing”, Murphy said. Catch up with all the panelists here: https://tinyurl.com/yu64n88k

AUTISM-PEDIATRICS -CHILD CARE

Barney Miller’s story Meet Barney Miller, a promising young surfer, with hopes and dreams of potentially going pro. possibly upgrade to a Klaxon Monster, for extreme off-road use. He has met some incredible people, enjoyed a variety of magic experiences, and been rewarded with a lifetime of memories.

Barney and Kada

his all changed one rainy Easter in 1999 when the 20-year-old was involved in a car accident that left him paralysed from the chest down. Diagnosed with C6 Quadriplegia, Barney’s life completely changed. The specialists told him he would never breath on his own, use his right arm or walk, run, and surf again. Despite this diagnosis, Barney was determined to get back to an active life. Over the past 10 years Barney has been on a journey of healing and reconnection to defy all odds. He has learnt to stand, can hold his breath for three minutes and has strength in both his arms. In 2017, Barney won gold in the ISA World Adaptive Surf Championships, and in 2021 set out on a soul-fulfilling journey across Australia. Barney knew it was not going to be an easy task unless he found something that could assist his mobility. He sought advice from the team at Astris PME who showed him the full range of power-assist devices for manual wheelchairs. Barney settled on the device that was the perfect solution for his needs, a Klaxon Klick.

The Klick became a game changer and an essential part of his travels across outback Australia. Barney and his wife Kada travelled through Victoria, crossed the South Australian border, spending seven months exploring Western Australia. Barney drove about 22,500kms across Australia, before handing the last 1000kms over to Kada. Along the way he was able to enjoy the outdoors, sight-seeing, and socialising, supported by Klaxon Klick. The ability to Klick the power attachment on and off gave him the freedom to explore over rough terrain, outback trails and enjoy the stunning Australian landscapes with Kada. Barney said, “My Klaxon Klick was perfect. Adding power to my wheelchair helped take the pressure off my body and reduce wear and tear on my shoulders, and I loved how easy it was to use, its tight turning circle and long battery life. The manoeuvrability and power that Klick gave me meant I could go to places that a regular wheelchair simply could not go”. Barney can’t wait to keep travelling and

Klaxon’s range of power assists have been created to meet the needs and requirements of people who want to improve their everyday life by getting out and about independently. Klaxon’s cutting-edge technology has developed through continual innovation supported by Klaxon’s senior founders, Andrea Stella and Enrico Boaretto, both wheelchair users. Klaxon strives to ‘empower the world with the art of moving’ and are unique in their design, include patented attachment design. Australian owned distributor of assistive technology, APEX Mobility, supplies the Klaxon power assist range across Australia and New Zealand. You can secure your Klaxon Klick through any of their dealers such as Astris PME. Company spokesman Michael Gage told Link that the Klaxon power assist devices are a fantastic mid-cost power option to improve a person’s mobility for many reasons, including that they come in under $15,000.00. “This means NDIS participants with power assist’s pre-approved in their plan, will gain immediate approval for a Klaxon under NDIS’s new funding procedures, and fast supply via their local APEX Mobility dealer,” he said. Contact details: APEX Mobility is an importer and distributor of quality Assistive Technology from around the world. With warehouses in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, and a dealer network across Australia and New Zealand, they are well positioned to connect you with an advisor that can assist you with your mobility needs. They can be contacted on: 1300 212 192 enquiry@apexmobility.com linkonline.com.au

Link to...News

Disability Gateway - a support service when you need it “I could get maybe 20 calls a day all about different things about different people. Some callers only want a quick answer while there are others who need to chat.” One of the first calls Piper received was from a distressed woman in her 60s, concerned about the future of herself and her husband after both experienced falls within weeks of each other. Her husband had also sustained permanent physical disability from accidents in the last couple of years. “She called us crying and it can be hard to answer the phone to someone who’s obviously already so upset,” Piper said. “We were their first call, which can be good because you know there will be some resources they haven’t tried that you can suggest.” Piper connected her to the Victorian Aids and Equipment Program and was able to facilitate the woman to secure a walking frame for her husband, convert two steps at the front of their home to a ramp for easier access and arrange personal alert devices for them both. According to Piper it was a great outcome. “She contacts me quite often just to let me know how they are going.” To contact the Disability Gateway visit: disabilitygateway.gov.au or call: 1800 643 787.

he Disability Gateway is a website and phone line that connects people with information, support and services such as employment, education, aids and equipment and money. And if there is a need to ring the Gateway, Piper is the person you would want to be on the other end of the phone.

April/May 2022

Always ready to help, Piper is a Community Services consultant with the Gateway. “I like being able to connect to so many different people in a day,” Piper said. “There’s something to be said for long lasting relationships with clients but I think what the Gateway does is give is a lot of connections in a short amount of time.

For information in a language other than English, call the Translating and Interpreting Service on: 131 450 and ask to be connected to the Disability Gateway. If you are deaf or have a hearing or speech impairment, call the National Relay Service on: 1800 555 677 and ask to be connected to the Disability Gateway.

Find COVID-19 support with the Disability Gateway

The Disability Gateway can assist people with disability to find trusted information, support and services.

Call 1800 643 787 or www.disabilitygatew visit disabilitygateway.gov.au ay.gov.au Monday to Friday 8am to 8pm AEST/AEDT Authorised by the Australian Government, Canberra

Link to...ATSA

COGY Pedal Wheelchair - 100 % pedal power What if your wheelchair gave you an opportunity to be more active?

he COGY helps improve leg function, strength and fitness, all while allowing increased mobility.

COGY is the world’s first wheelchair that moves by pedalling. For many wheelchair users, opportunities for being active can be limited. COGY allows for lifestyle change by combining mobility with activity, allowing regular use as well as sports and recreational use. COGY is built on the principle that even the slightest movement of one leg creates a reflect reaction where the opposing paralysed limb will move. Maneuvering and brakes can be applied by using one hand: the use of hands, legs, eyes and ears in sync allow for the perfect rehabilitation effect.

Cycling in a seated position, the legs are less burdened and free from upper body weight, providing users with light aerobic exercise and cardio benefits.

To book a free trial email: info@cogy. com.au or visit: www.cogy.com.au

COGY claims it can help children and adults recover from cerebral palsy, stroke, muscle degeneration, arthritis, etc. COGY is said to be unmatched in recreational and rehabilitative activities offering 100 per cent pedal power. Fun, safe and light, suitable for indoor and outdoor spaces…the possibilities are endless. COGY will be on display at ATSA Expo, Sydney Olympic Park on May 25-26.

If you can move your legs, even just a little, you can glide along at a fast walking pace.

Cogy is a pedal-powered wheelchair that allows for exercise, exploration and mobility—all in one. Even in small spaces, it’s maneuverered by steering with your hand and powering with your legs, for a 360˚ pivot turn. The Cogy is designed for people with walking disabilities: spinal cord injuries, stroke, arthritis patients, brain injuries, cerebral palsy and spina bifida. It can improve quality of life for people with walking disabilities, their caretakers and family.

www.cogy.c cogy.com.au om.au • info@cogy.com.au • 0402 228 363

April/May 2022

Australia’s foremost assistive technology event

MORE THAN 120 EXHIBITORS

BRISBANE 11-12 MAY 2022

ROYAL INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION CENTRE RNA Showgrounds, Brisbane

SYDNEY

25-26 MAY 2022 SYDNEY SHOWGROUND Sydney Olympic Park Halls 5 & 6

PROGRAM GUIDES

1300 789 845 www.atsaindependentlivingexpo.com.au Organised by

Media Partners

Brisbane Seminar Program 11-12 May, 2022 www.atsaindependentlivingexpo.com.au REGISTER NOW

WEDNESDAY 11 MAY ROOM 1

ROOM 2

NDIS - presenter and topic TBC

LET’S FACE IT TOGETHER! The 5 most common mistakes made during wheelchair seating evaluations

9.15AM 45MINS

JOANA SANTIAGO Medifab 10.30AM 30MINS

11.30AM 30MINS

How to Make Custom Moulded Seating Work

Employment for people who are blind or vision impaired

KATE PAIN GTK Rehab

SALLY AUSRISCH Blind Citizens Australia

The Why, When, and How of Night-time Positioning

Assistive Technology (AT) in Australia: Current Opportunities and Challenges for the AT Sector

JOANA SANTIAGO Medifab

LIBBY CALLAWAY Australian Rehabilitation & Assistive Technology Association (ARATA)

ROOM 3 How Personal Safety & Tele-Health Come Together in a Wristwatch LANCE STRACKE Guardian Safety Pendants Breaking down barriers between disability and health: Victorian Disability Liaison Officer Program KRISTEN MORRIS Austin Health Wheelchair Vehicle Transport and Injury Prevention AMIN AKBARIAN Mobility Engineering

LUNCH 12.00PM - 1.00PM A New Way of Living 1.00PM 45MINS

2.15PM 30MINS

LAURA O’REILLY Hireup

Managing Behaviours of Concern Through Wheelchair Interventions That Allow for Sensory Expression and Enhance Participation

“Removing Barriers” so all Australians have access to Aquatic Activities CRAIG SLATTERY Para Mobility Bikes and Trikes - Fitness, Family, Fun and Therapy ANDREA ESPEI Schuchmann GmbH & Co

LAUREN HUNTER Linds Rehabilitation Equipment

3.15PM 45MINS

Clinical Reasoning, Outcome Measures and Equipment Justification in Complex Seating and Mobility Assessment LOIS BROWN ILS Rehab

April/May 2022

Where do I start? How do I predict the future? ROB NORMAN Sunrise Medical

Occupational Therapists and Assistive Technology - Assessment, Prescription, Process and Funding Occupational Therapy Australia - Panel Session Supporting children safely for travel, addressing postural support needs in available special purpose car restraints JAMIE COCKLE Medifab Next generation tech is here: How its already facilitating therapy for upper motor neurone syndromes EDWARD LEVY Otto Bock

Royal International Convention Centre, RNA Showgrounds

THURSDAY 12 MAY ROOM 1

9.15AM 45MINS

10.15AM 30MINS

11.00AM 45MINS

Powered Wheelchair Suspension - Pretty Coloured Coils or Essential Component for Best Functional Outcomes TRACEE-LEE MAGINNITY Permobil

Presentation from the TGA - details and speaker TBC

ROOM 2 How to Handle the Pressures” of the Day! LOIS BROWN ILS Rehab

Electric wheelchairs and mobility scooters: the good, the bad and the ugly DR. THERESA HARADA University of Wollongong

Contra-indication or precaution? When should we be nervous about use of power standing? RACHEL MAHER Permobil New Zealand

ROOM 3 Paediatric Panel PANELIST: JAMIE COCKLE Medifab KATE PAIN GTK Rehab RACHEL MAHER Perimobil New Zealand VANESHA MOODLEY APEX Mobility Can you fix my headrest? PRITHY SIVARAMAN National, Sunrise Medical

Segmental Assessment of Trunk Control (SATCo)

Evidenced support of powerseat features for functional outcomes

ROBERT NORMAN National, Sunrise Medical

TRACEE-LEE MAGINNITY Permobil

LUNCH 12.00PM - 1.00PM

1.00PM 30MINS

2.00PM 45MINS

Improving quality in care and service delivery using the Australian Community Industry Standard Framework

Adaptive Clothing Presentation

NDIS Quality and Safeguard Commission

Taking a Closer Look at Considerations for Power Assist Devices

How active airflow, integrated in a wheelchair, can help improve quality of life and avoid overheating and over sweating

NICOLE BROOKE Australian Community Industry Alliance Outcome Measures: The Why, What, When and How RACHEL FABINIAK Permobil

VENESHA MOODLEY APEX Mobility

RYAN BESSO Aidacare

Correct at time of print; please check website for latest program. linkonline.com.au

Sydney Seminar Program 25-26 May, 2022 WEDNESDAY 25 MAY ROOM 1 NDIS - presenter and topic TBC 9.15AM 45MINS

10.30AM 30MINS

11.30AM 30MINS

Wheelchair Vehicle Transport and Injury Prevention AMIN AKBARIAN Mobility Engineering

Supporting children safely for travel, addressing postural support needs in available special purpose car restraints JAMIE COCKLE Medifab

ROOM 2

ROOM 3

Breaking down barriers between disability and health; Victorian Disability Liaison Officer Program

Wheel Story - The Impact of Wheels and Tires on Manual Wheelchair Propulsion Efficiency

KRISTEN MORRIS Austin Health

DAVID FAGAN Paragon Mobility

ROOM 4 Employment for people who are blind or vision impaired SALLY AUSRISCH Blind Citizens Australia

Bespoke Chairs and How Participation through To Measure Them Activity: Let the Fun Begin MITCHELL STONE Sunrise Medical LIZ NADE Polyspine

Contra-indication or precaution? When should we be nervous about use of power standing?

Power or Manual Wheelchair? How do we decide what is best for our client?

Taking a Closer Look at Considerations for Power Assist Devices

A new way of living LAURA O’REILLY Hireup

RACHEL FABINIAK Permobil

RACHEL MAHER Permobil New Zealand

VENESHA MOODLEY APEX Mobility

LUNCH 12.00PM - 1.00PM

1.00PM 45MINS

Occupational Therapists and Assistive Technology - Assessment, Prescription, Process and Funding OT AUSTRALIA Panel Session

2.15PM 30MINS

The Why, When, and How of Night-time Positioning JOANA SANTIAGO Medifab

How to Handle the “Pressures” of the Day! 3.15PM 45MINS

LOIS BROWN ILS Rehab

Where do I start? How do I predict future growth? ROB NORMAN National, Sunrise Medical

Next generation tech is here: How its already facilitating therapy for upper motor neurone syndromes

“Removing Barriers” so all Australians have access to Aquatic Activities

Upcoming changes to the building code and the impact on home mods

CRAIG SLATTERY Para Mobility

JANE BRINGOLF Centre For Universal Design Australia

GMFCS 4: What are the specials needs in seating and standing?

Managing Behaviours of Concern Through Wheelchair Interventions That Allow for Sensory Expression and Enhance Participation

ANDREA ESPEI Shuchmann GmbH & Co

EDWARD LEVY Otto Bock

LAUREN HUNTER Linds Rehabilitation Equipment

April/May 2022

Optimising a Wheelchair - Using the Technology to Ensure Ongoing Success DAVID FAGAN Paragon Mobility Improving quality in care and service delivery using the Australian Community Industry Standard Framework DR NICOLE BROOKE Australian Community Industry Alliance How to Make Custom Moulded Seating Work KATE PAIN GTK Rehab

Sydney Olympic Park, Halls 5 & 6 THURSDAY 26 MAY ROOM 1

9.15AM 45MINS

10.15AM 30MINS

Clinical Reasoning, Outcome Measures and Equipment Justification in Complex Seating and Mobility Assessment LOIS BROWN ILS Rehab NDIS Quality and Safeguard Commission presentation

Evidenced support of powerseat features for functional outcomes TRACEE-LEE MAGINNITY Permobil

TGA presentation

ROOM 3

ROOM 4

Prescribing Manual How can the NDIS Wheelchairs for Function support your desire to and Independence travel? - Overcoming static sitting postures LAUREN HUNTER Linds Rehabilitation Equipment Electric wheelchairs and mobility scooters: the good, the bad and the ugly DR. THERESA HARADA University of Wollongong

Outcome Measures: The Why, What, When and How 11.00AM 45MINS

ROOM 2

RACHEL FABINIAK Permobil

Paediatric Panel PANELIST: JAMIE COCKLE Medifab KATE PAIN GTK Rehab RACHEL MAHER Perimobil New Zealand VANESHA MOODLEY APEX Mobility

How active airflow, integrated in a wheelchair, can help improve quality of life and avoid overheating and over sweating

Travelling with confidence and discovering the world

RYAN BESSO Aidacare

LUNCH 12.00PM - 1.00PM Adaptive Clothing presentation 1.00PM 45MINS

2.00PM 45MINS

Bikes and Trikes Fitness, Family, Fun and Therapy ANDREA ESPEI GmbH & Co

LET’S FACE IT TOGETHER! The 5 most common mistakes made during wheelchair seating evaluations

Does my client have a pressure injury or could it be something else? RACHEL FABINIAK Permobil

Multisensorial stimulation in a vertical standing for visually impaired kids MARTINO AVELLIS Ormesa Srl

12.00PM - 2.45PM Broadcast of The Accessible & Inclusive Tourism Conference in Asia-Pacific

Segmental Assessment of Trunk Control (SATCo) AMY BJORNSON National, Sunrise Medical

JOANA SANTIAGO Medifab

Correct at time of print; please check website for latest program. linkonline.com.au

Link to...ATSA

ATSA - 20 years of giving assistive technology suppliers a powerful voice Remember the year 2000? We escaped Y2K tech disasters and hosted the best Olympic games in history. A global audience of 3.7 billion people from 220 countries watched how much Australians could achieve when they set their minds to it. This was a time of confidence, collaboration and innovation that came from showing the world we could do incredible things down under.

Join Lisa Cox, Master of Ceremonies, at the ATSA Gala Dinner

Celebrating 20 years 2007 2011 2021 How do I find out more about ATSA? • Visit www.atsa.org.au • Contact the ATSA team on info@atsa.org.au • Follow ATSA on Linkedin Want to know about the expo’s? • Visit www.atsaindependentlivingexpo.com.au • Follow #ATSAexpo on Facebook or Instagram

6489 ATSA Link Magazine 20 Years IMAGE 198x172.61.indd 1

April/May 2022

23/3/22 12:02 pm

ATSA

t was during this time a small group of suppliers in the assistive technology (AT) sector were also doing great things, innovating together to begin to transform their sector. A challenging industry 20 years ago Twenty years ago, the assistive technology industry was very different. Product ranges were limited varied in quality. Suppliers were fiercely independent and competitive. They didn't communicate for the common good of all, partly because there was no collective body to provide a single voice for suppliers or to set objectives for the industry. A voice was desperately needed because government policies were made without consulting our industry. Disability funding was lower than necessary. It took an average of 12 months for an order to come in after a quote, but it could take two years. And when the order came, suppliers often had to wait months for government payments. That made managing profit margins incredibly difficult, especially for the small businesses serving the community. At the same time, the industry needed a place to come together to show the public what was possible. There had been an industry expo in 2000, but it had been expensive for exhibitors and brought in few visitors. The need for change A handful of suppliers felt that they could work together from inside the sector to create a bigger, better expo, one that was more affordable for exhibitors. This seemed the perfect catalyst to establish an industry association to bring together suppliers to speak with a single voice to government and other audiences. An association, they believed, could benefit customers by persuading the government to fund equipment appropriately.

A new expo successfully launched in 2001 The newly formed Independent Suppliers Technology Rehabilitation Association held its first industry expo, The Daily Living Expo, in 2001 at Rosehill Racecourse. Out of the gate, the expo was a success, thanks to some hard yards from founders Tony Mason, Peter Matlock, Iain Hogg and Greg Kline. The four sent personal invitations to companies — there was no database or automation then. With no shortage of vision, the founders established an education program within the expo to attract occupational therapists and people from the rehabilitation industry to the event. And they opened the event to the general public on a weekend so they could come and see the products. The obvious benefits of membership led to growth, but the challenge was bringing the industry together for the common good. Seven years later, the association was IRSA, the Independent Rehabilitation Suppliers Association. The association employed Chris Sparks, as chief executive officer to manage operations and a government consultant to investigate issues and make recommendations. An industry that works together 20 years later 20 years later, we’re ATSA, Assistive Technology Suppliers Australia, proudly continuing the work our founders started. We promote and support the vital role AT plays, giving the industry a strong, united voice.

Recently, ATSA spoke to our founders Greg, Iain, Tony and Peter. They look today at the incredible range of life-changing products available, remembering how little was on offer in 2000. Our founders discussed the achievements they're most proud of. They talked about how much it means to have brought a fragmented industry together, especially because it gave our industry a seat at the table with the decision-makers in government. This has had a huge benefit for our members, the industry as a whole, and consumers. Today, in no small part thanks to them, suppliers work together and communicate for the benefit of consumers, who are more likely to be matched with the right products and to have any problems fixed quickly. In Greg Kline’s words, “Doing what we do, as an industry, it’s a fantastic place to be. We’re blessed to work in the industry. It’s given me so much joy every day to help the people who need us.”

Master of Ceremonies for ATSA Gala Dinner - May 25 ATSA is pleased to announce Lisa Cox as the master of ceremonies for the ATSA Gala Dinner. Lisa Cox is a multi-awarded writer, presenter and consultant based in Australia. She is also the author of two books, an advocate and ambassador.

What an incredible time to reflect on how far we've come thanks to those early visionary efforts. Today, ATSA is a respected voice to government and allied health providers. We advocate for the highest standards for the customers our members serve, the people who use their products. To consumers, ATSA membership stands for trustworthiness and high standards.

Lisa is on a mission to muse, educate and challenge. Her work has been published nationally and internally for publications like Huff Post and The Sydney Morning Herald.

To celebrate, we’re holding a gala dinner and awards night in Sydney on May 25.

To book: Email: allison.miller@atsa.org.au or call: 02 4646 1453

Join colleagues and peers for a night to remember at Accor Stadium in Olympic Park. Tickets are selling fast (table and single ticket options are available).

linkonline.com.au

Link to...ATSA

Pride Mobility and Quantum Rehab can’t wait to see you at the ATSA Independent Living Expo in 2022 With the ATSA Independent Living Expo just around the corner, Pride Mobility and Quantum Rehab will be using the event to showcase two of their newest products that industry professionals and consumers are going to love. with Smooth Ride Suspension (SRS), provide stability for smooth obstacle transitions and unmatched driving performance. Additional new features include 4-pole motors and redesigned castor arms for improved durability and reduced weight. “Riding in the 4Front 2 is unlike any chair I’ve ever used,” said Cameron Irwin, a Quantum brand ambassador. “The 4Front 2 pushes the limit set by its predecessor beyond my expectations. The new suspension allows me to conquer terrain that I never thought possible as a wheelchair user.” According to Quantum national business development manager, Andrew Gannan the design of the 4Front 2 incorporates feedback received from consumers and industry professionals. “Innovation always begins with listening and a significant amount of time was spent carefully developing this ground-breaking front-wheel drive power chair,” he said.

ravelling has never been easier with the Go-Go Endurance Li. This lightweight 4-wheel scooter has everything you need for a safe and convenient trip. With an efficient 16Ah MAXX lithium battery, clever feathertouch disassembly, advanced ComfortTrac Suspension, and an optional 8Ah airline-safe lithium-ion battery pack available, the Endurance Li is the ideal mobility aid when adventure calls.

sets the Endurance Li apart from other scooters.

Pride Mobility sales and marketing director, Matthew Herbert, believes the inclusion of lithium-ion technology

The 4Front 2 is the next generation of the 4Front power wheelchair. New Smart Traction Control (STC), along

April/May 2022

“Whether exploring a city, discovering trails at a park, or spending the day shopping, the Endurance Li is up to the task,” he said. The innovation doesn’t stop there. The new 4Front 2 from Quantum Rehab is sure to turn heads.

The 4Front 2 is latest addition to the Quantum Rehab product range, which includes the Q6 Series of power bases, Q-Logic 3 Advanced Drive Control System, and the soon-to-be-released TRU-Balance 4 Power Positioning System, as well as Stealth Products, the foremost manufacturer of positioning components. To learn more about the latest product offerings from Pride Mobility and Quantum Rehab, be sure to visit their ATSA Independent Living Expo stand in Sydney (#122) and Brisbane (#106).

2 FRCNT

QUANTUM

www.quantumreh ww.lifeatilevel.c 61 3 8770-9600 • quantumrehab.com ab.com • wlifeatilevel.com om

Link to...Mobility

Wheelchairs that assist with sensory exploration. A wheelchair should conform to the person who relies on it for mobility and engagement in activities of daily living.

or those wheelchair users who have a diagnosed or undiagnosed sensory processing disorder, the wheelchair can become a place of restriction and frustration. Thankfully, through advances in design and technology, it does not have to be this way. Often the end users experience the world around them through either sensory seeking movements (rhythmic rocking) or sensory avoiding postures (tucking and grounding). Every individual experiences different patterns of sensory behaviors, which can be easily triggered by the heightened or lack of stimuli going on around them. As such, the prescription process of the wheelchair must take a client centered and multidisciplinary approach to ensure the wheelchair and the supports it provides, does not end up adding to unwanted and aggravating stimuli for the individual. The consequences can often lead to wheelchair damage and sustained injuries to the end-user. Features prescribed must marry to the individual, allowing for sensory exploration in a safe manner that ensures durability of equipment and protects the person from negative forces imposed on the body in a ridged seating system, when all the person wants to do is move! Seating Dynamics has designed and manufactured unique wheelchair components to solve serious issues. Dynamic hardware and their

April/May 2022

components allow coordinated movement to occur within the seat and/ or wheelchair frame in response to force from the client. Dynamic components absorb force which, in turn, assists the client back to a starting position. Dynamic seating is used in three main clinical scenarios. First, it is used to diffuse force, for example with clients who have increased muscle tone. Dynamic components absorb extensor forces that could otherwise lead to client injury, equipment breakage, decreased sitting tolerance, increased agitation, decreased function, further increases in extension and energy consumption. Secondly, it is used to allow movement, for example with clients who seek out movement. Dynamic components allow movement that provides vestibular input, increases alertness and decreases agitation. Thirdly, dynamic seating can improve postural control and stability, as well as function. Seating Dynamics is a family owned, Colorado company that prides itself in providing the highest quality wheelchair components made for durability and reliability. Dynamic hardware from Seating Dynamics is made to order to fit a variety of wheelchair models, making it the perfect retrofit option to add movement to an existing seating system. The PDG wheelchair ranges boast a variety of features that increases the durability and reliability of manual wheelchairs for this demographic of users. The high pivot point pendulum tilt mechanics of the T50 manual tilt-inspace wheelchair, offers a tilt release

that is never under load and perfectly balances in line with the end-user’s anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS) of the pelvis to offer smooth transitions through tilt. This reduces the incidence of triggering a startle response, commonly known to trigger tone response and sensory stimuli behaviors. It also provides a more durable solution with a high positioned tilt site that is impossible to contaminate with food and other fluids known to interfere with competitive tilt mechanisms on the market. PDG have also recognised the need to absorb forces created by high tone and sensory seeking movements. The Stellar Impact was designed for the most demanding wheelchair users. It offers up to 45-degreee tilt, and its ultra-tough steel construction provides maximum durability for high tone, highly agitated, and/or continuously rocking occupants. PDG label it “the toughest tilt chair in the world”. Linds Rehabilitation Equipment will exhibit at the Brisbane (May 11-12) and Sydney (May 25-26) ATSA Independent Living Expos. Visit our stands to learn about these products and more. Join our clinical educator and occupational therapist, Lauren Hunter for her scheduled talk on ‘Managing Behaviours of Concern Through Wheelchair Interventions that Allow for Sensory Expression and Enhanced Participation’ to explore the Seating Dynamic and PDG range in greater detail.

www.lindsrehab.co m.au

Link to...Mobility

Grumble Guts is happy! Our readers may recall Pete and Dud, the friends who purchased a Kris II battery operated chair lift to help Dud up and down the stairs at Pete’s apartment to watch soccer.

hey told Stair Climbers recently how a friend of theirs- Morris, who lived in another secondfloor apartment was seriously inconvenienced when the lift was out of order. Morris had done his knees working as a carpet installer and struggled with stairs. Pete and Dud lent Morris the Kris II to help him out. Another friend, Simon was happy to operate it. After a quick demonstration, Simon was soon transporting Morris up to his apartment and back down to ground level. Simon said it was easy to use and was surprised by how manoeuvrable it was.

www.stairclimbers.com.au

info@stairclimbers.com.au

April/May 2022

Morris, aka “Grumble Guts” was uncharacteristically flattering of the Kris II and felt quite safe with the vest style seat belts. “It was comfortably smooth”, he said. The lift was repaired within a couple of weeks, but Grumble Guts was so impressed by Kris II, he purchased one for himself just in case the lifts played up again. We asked for a picture of him on his new Kris II, but his two-word response is not print-friendly! So here is another picture of Pete and Dud. Kris II is available from Stair Climbers for delivery Australia wide. Phone: 03 8899 6615 or 0411 458 887 or visit: www.stairclimbers.com.au

MOBILITY

Driving Assessments made easy

At Freedom Motors Australia we have always been asked, do you have a demonstration vehicle that has all your 'other' products in it?

e have listened and we now welcome to our ever-growing fleet our Ford Mondeo Driving Assessment Vehicle. This vehicle opens so many opportunities for demonstrations and assessments of other mobility equipment. This vehicle has a multitude of options in it including several different types of Fadiel hand controls which are customisable for specific use for those learning or relearning to drive and this also includes driving instructor pedals in the passenger position. We didn't stop there. We also included our range of Freedom products such as the turn out seat, wheelchair roof box and 4-way boot hoist. That still wasn't all. We then proceeded to include a Fiorella Turbo Slide, a Bruno Chariot is pulling up the rear and we also have plans to include an Abiloader in the next few weeks. We will be offering this vehicle for hire to driver assessing

occupational therapists and we will also be offering free in-home demonstrations for one or many of these vehicles included options. Why not give Freedom Motors Australia a call on: 1800 672 437 for more information on this exciting new vehicle with its awesome options, or one of our other amazing modifications. We deliver Freedom you choose the destination.

WE DELIVER FREEDOM

YOU CHOOSE THE DESTINATION

NEW

INTRODUCING OUR

K I A K A4 DROP-FLOOR CONVERSION!

OVER 600 CONVERTED KIA CARNIVAL YP s T A K I N G ON THE ROAD & COUNTING! 4TH GEN

ORDERS NOW!

FREE CALL 1800 672 437 OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE WWW.FREEDOMMOTORSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

linkonline.com.au

Link to...NDIS

NDSP Plan Managers, helping increase Plan Utilisation Starting as a small, family-owned business based out of Adelaide in 2018, NDSP Plan Managers have since grown to support participants throughout Australia. NDSP has a client-focused approach to ensure participants get the most out of their plans and receive dedicated support. Signing up to NDSP also gives you access to their custom budget portal, Nappa, designed to help clients track their plan spending, breaking down your NDIS plan by category and showing all processed invoices. You can choose to add someone else to your portal as an extra contact too, so a family or support coordinator can also help with your plan. NDSP’s team of NDIS experts use Nappa to make sure invoices are paid, but also to help clients know how they can best use their NDIS funds. This includes plan utilisation conversations, where one of their experts will talk a client through their plan and what each NDIS category can be used for. To help clients and all NDIS participants find providers to support them, NDSP also have a free provider directory, that has been live since 2019, with plans to expand on the existing directory with a new pilot project, ProviderLink.

ith representatives in each state and territory, many with lived experience with the NDIS, NDSP understands how tricky the NDIS can be and are passionate about improving every participant’s NDIS journey. You’ll often see them attending disability expos, organising workshops, or in meetings sharing the ways NDSP can help NDIS participants manage their NDIS budgets. This team is supported by NDIS experts out of their two offices in Adelaide and Perth to answer any questions a client may have about their plan. This can range from invoicing questions to breaking down their plan

April/May 2022

in conversations to get the most out of their plan. When asked about the most common questions they get from participants when looking for a plan manager, NDSP client services manager, Melissa Sayer said many people don’t know that they can change plan manager mid-plan and how easy it is to switch. For clients joining mid-plan NDSP will waive the setup fee, as well as all previous months’ fees and the most important thing is, they reopen your plan from its start date. This helps the previous plan manager and all your providers to ensure any outstanding invoices can still be paid.

The ProviderLink rolled out in Tasmania in February this year and will be rolled out across the country over the next 12-18 months. It aims to help increase plan utilisation for all NDIS participants, whether or not they have plan management. If you have funding included in your NDIS Plan for plan management (called “Improved Life Choices”), you can get in touch with the NDSP Plan Managers team on: 1800 63 63 77. You can come onboard at the start of your first NDIS plan, at the end of your tenth plan or even right in the middle of one. Visit ndsp.com.au for more information.

Jessy gets work ready

NDIS

Finishing school and transitioning into the ‘real world’ can be an exciting yet intimidating experience for anyone, but for Jessy and many people with disability, this major life change can feel even harder.

essy is a much-loved character at Endeavour Foundation’s Business Solutions site in Toowoomba, Queensland. He is well-known for his care, compassion and larrikinism, always having fun and willing to have a laugh with anyone. Recently, Jessy has been working hard to prepare for open employment with Endeavour Foundation’s Get Work Ready program. “I’m doing the Get Work Ready program because I want to be a support worker to help people with disability like me,” Jessy said. Jessy is so keen to put his new skills to use, he has already started assisting at the local Endeavour Foundation Learning and Lifestyle hub.

“I’ve started helping the staff with activities, and it helps me understand what skills I need to also be a support worker like them,” Jessy said. “I am passionate [about] helping people with disabilities and helping them achieve their goals and be treated like everyone else.” “I want to show everyone that people with disability can do anything that they put their mind to.” What is Get Work Ready? Endeavour Foundation’s Get Work Ready program is designed to equip young adults (17-35) with intellectual disability with the skills they need to become ready for the workplace. The program offers practical skill-building, social connection, and personal

development, in a safe, engaging, and supported environment. What funding do I need? The program course costs will need to be covered by NDIS funding supports Finding and Keeping a Job and Core Support. Interested in Getting Work Ready? Register you interest in enrolling at: endeavour.com.au/work-ready.

Are you looking to find your place in the workplace? Get Work Ready is an Endeavour Foundation learning program designed to support and enable young adults (17-35) with intellectual disability to transition from school or other activities, to their chosen employment pathway. • 5 key subject areas including administration, technology, retail, packaging & manufacturing, and logistics & warehousing. • Practical hands on experience in workplace settings • Flexible program days and times to suit your needs • Program course costs are covered by NDIS funding supports Finding and Keeping a Job and Core Support.

For more information, or to register you interest in w.e ndeavour.com.au/work-ready enrolling,ww visit endeavour.com.au/work-ready EF2710.LM.0322

linkonline.com.au

Link to...Accommodation & Home Support

What’s changed with the way the NDIS fund assistive technology Over recent months the NDIS have been working with their providers and participants to explore ways to simplify the funding application and approval process, and to speed up supply of assistive technology (AT). personal circumstances the best. This is great for choice and control, and in most cases will strip out unnecessary red-tape and delays in participants securing their life-changing equipment”.

ccording to Astris PME managing director, Steve Joyce, part of their review identified two interesting facts: over 80 per cent of NDIS participants have AT in their plans, and most (95 per cent) of this equipment costs less than $15,000. “The question was, how could NDIS improve their processes, to speed up the supply without opening themselves up to fraud or abuse?” On February 28, 2022, NDIS made the announcement that they were making two major changes to their procedures. They lifted the maximum of midcost AT purchases from $5,000 to $15,000, effectively moving thousands of applications from the complexity of high-cost reviews into the more amenable mid-cost range. NDIS have also increased the training for their team that help participants secure funding in their NDIS Plan and given the green-light to participants to purchase equipment that meets the objectives of their plan

April/May 2022

– up to $15,000 – without going back to NDIS with quotes and further AT Application Forms. “This means that for most AT users, once equipment is in their NDIS plan and budget structure, they will be able to liaise with a NDIS registered provider and AT advisor, pick their equipment and purchase it immediately. They will still need written evidence that the equipment they have selected meets the stated needs as outlined in their plan,” Joyce said. “We to this to ensure that any recommendation is made with the correct insights into the participant’s condition and goals. This move towards pre-approval is an excellent step forward for our clients, and for thousands of Australians looking for AT funding up to $15,000”, he said. “Once they have the funding allocated to their plan, they can go out and review the different providers, and trial a range of equipment, until they find the solution that suits them and their

To help clients make the right selection of their equipment, Astris PME have built Experience Centres, where participants can meet with their therapist and a highly trained AT advisor and different equipment can be trialled. Independently owned, Astris PME carry a wide range of different brands, and can provide impartial advice as to the benefits and restraints as to each model, when taken in context with every client’s individual needs. About Astris PME Astris PME are registered NDIS providers with showrooms in Sydney, Newcastle, Canberra, Young, Brisbane and Melbourne, and offer free trials to long term users of AT as long as their therapist is involved. They also offer service and growth-adjustments and trials at their showrooms, or at your home, clinic, school, etc. As part of their 70th anniversary celebrations this year, they are offering all clients that purchase and receive their equipment during 2022 a free Lifetime Back to Base Service package. You can see their range, or make a booking, at www.astris-pme.com.au or via: 1300 131 884. Helpful links: www.astris-pme.com.au/news/astrispme-ndis-update NDIS media release: https://tinyurl.com/4cke9dbx

Your free portal to the wide world of AT

ACCOMMODATION & HOME SUPPORT

ith an abundance of assistive technology (AT) products and information available, it can be difficult for people to find impartial information and the right AT solutions for their needs. To assist with this, AT Chat has launched a free AT Portal designed to help people across Australia navigate the complex world of AT. AT Chat is a co-designed initiative that delivers peer-led information and peer support to help increase people’s confidence to make AT decisions. Designed with members of the disability community, the AT Portal offers a place for people to store their AT information, get specialised peer support, and build their knowledge. It is central hub where people can search through more than 15,000 products and store the information about the make and model, as well as access a library of peer-led videos and articles. AT user Nerine is excited to be able to store all her AT information in one place. “The AT Portal will open, broaden and expand my AT world, increase my independence and help me choose and find the right AT fit for me,” she said.

People can also connect with AT navigators who will answer their questions, research information, and provide a solution guide to help them reach their goals. The navigators are expert AT users with specialised training from a health professional. They are dedicated to utilising their lived experience with disability to support their peers. Access your free AT Portal today to journey, navigate, and discover the world of AT: portal.atchat.com.au

linkonline.com.au

Link to...Accommodation & Home Support

Taking control of services that matter most People with disability are giving direct feedback on service delivery to implement change to the services they receive from their disability service provider. With the first round completed, real and tangible benefits for clients participating in the program are evident. “It's about looking at service delivery through the eyes of our clients and having a better understanding of what is important to them. It's improvements that sit outside the regular compliance,” Achieve Australia, operations performance manager, Ainsley Carpenter said. Along with improving outcomes for clients, the Quality Champions program provides meaningful, open employment for people with disability. “It's definitely a worthwhile project... and hopefully for me will be a long-time job,” Quality Champion, Anthony said.

Quality Champions program manager Tarryn Ballard

n 2021, Achieve Australia launched an innovative program called Quality Champions where people with disability evaluate services delivered to people with disability. Co-designed with people with disability, their voices are included every step of the way. The program involves a discussion between the client, the Quality Champion, who has a lived experience of disability, and a supportive Quality Champion partner. The pair then write a report of what the client has requested, for the service manager to then implement. Once this is agreed and actioned, they re-interview the client to review the changes. “The discussions we have with clients feeds directly back into improving

April/May 2022

the services for them, so they feel empowered as part of the process of improving services.” Quality Champion partner, Ross said. Having completed the first round of this process, changes have already been made to help Achieve clients live extraordinary lives. During one Quality Champions discussion, a person with disability, Louisa, said that she loves to swim and doing that regularly would improve her social participation. Since then, Louisa has gone swimming once a week. With her support worker, she is now exploring different swimming pools to decide which one she will continue to regularly go to.

Quality Champions program manager Tarryn Ballard feels proud to work for an organisation that champions social inclusion for both clients and staff. “Giving people with lived experience of disability an opportunity to work in open employment has demonstrated what can be accomplished and that with the right supports in place, any job is possible,” she said. “Learning how to use work emails for the first time, writing up reports, communicating to a variety of different people, these are all skills that we sometimes take for granted or learn early on in our careers, so for me it is exciting to watch the team learn these skills and flourish.” The hope for the future of the program is that it will become a nation-wide model for service delivery evaluation to improve outcomes for people with disability. To learn more, go to: www.achieveaustralia.org.au/ quality-champions

Quality Champions are here to be your voice

In 2018, Achieve Australia ran a trial program based on the UK’s Quality Checkers program where people with disability evaluate services delivered to people with disability. The trial was a success and in 2021 Achieve launched the Quality Champions program. The Quality Champions program elevates the voices of people with disability to tell us about the quality of the services they receive. The Quality Champions all have lived experience of disability. Scan the QR code to learn more about how Achieve Australia is bringing inclusion to life. ht tp s

://

w. ac hi

ev ea us tra

australia

lia

.or g.a u/

qu a

lit

ch am pi

on s

Link to...Accommodation & Home Support

When a hand-up supports meaningful living Kylie is a disability support worker in regional Victoria. She spoke to Agata Zema about the challenges of looking after people with disability during Covid.

“C

ovid, to a point, has made it difficult”. With almost 30 years working as a disability support worker, Kylie has seen many changes and challenges in how people with disability are cared for through disability services and support organisations. “Covid has changed outlooks and outcomes for many people, regardless of industry and personal opinion,” she said, and part of the job is to constantly adapt and be flexible. Kylie works in a four-customer group support setting with varying care needs. Although each day is a similar routine, from domestic and personal care to teaching independent living skills, there are always situations that require a different approach or adjustment. “These may be in the form of roadblocks, Covid related or not and it’s hands-on. There is direct care, but there is administration too. Disability support workers are required to think on their feet quickly and act with respect and compassion to maintain, defuse or change the course of possible outcomes.”

affected their usual routine, leaving her to explain why they could not attend their regular outings and placements, because “people are sick or may get sick and to prevent them from getting sick.” Undoubtedly, providing direct care requires focus and a dedicated willingness to help people with disability achieve personal goals geared towards their care plan. But a good disability support worker looks beyond the hurdles and establishes a way forward for staff and clients.

Kylie shared an example of this on a sleepover shift, when a client was not in the mood to sleep but waiting with bags packed and lunch ready, all set to attend his day placement program.

“Everyone has good and bad days and people with disability are no different. Your training, professional development and ongoing upskill techniques are drawn on daily. You try and show your clients what they are capable of, rather than step in and do it for them.”

“During lockdowns, we couldn’t take anyone out. They had to stay home and that has been challenging in itself,” she said. Clients did not understand what was happening globally and why this

In general, adapting a routine during the pandemic has required staff and management to show cooperation towards each other more than ever. “Support from within your team,

April/May 2022

knowing you have each other’s back and working in a good team makes all the difference.” Yet, staff numbers remain an issue. Lack of support workers and working longer hours is demanding, and yet another challenge brought on by Covid. Also impacting work hours is the long wait for new applicants to be ‘house ready’. “A lot of people apply, but there is a long process from start to finish following the initial interview. Newcomers are required to finish an induction and pre-training before they start and some just give up and try for work elsewhere.” But she acknowledges that “some people aren’t always a good fit” and encourages those wanting to work in the industry to check their intentions before applying for support work. “Specifically, having compassion towards clients and be willing to help them achieve a better quality of life, attain personal goals and learn skills to promote independent living.”

There are disability service providers and there’s Aruma

ACCOMMODATION & HOME SUPPORT

It’s easy to see why Aruma is one of Australia’s leading disability service providers. But what makes them truly like no other is that they live by the words ‘You. First’. It’s a simple, and powerful, philosophy. No matter what, their customers always come first.

ant to know more about the services Aruma offers? Aruma is one of Australia’s leading NDIS service providers. They’re the trusted partner and mentor to over 5000 adults and children with a disability throughout the east coast of Australia. So, the first question to ask yourself is... ‘what is it that you’re after?’. Maybe it’s about finding the right support for your child? Or perhaps you want to find a new home or get a job? How about learning to cook or giving surfing a go? The staff at Aruma are all ears. The services they offer include, but are

certainly not limited to: • Children’s Services: These range from Early Childhood Intervention, Short Term Accommodation (respite), Behavioural Support, to name a few. • Home and living: Everybody wants to find a place to call home, and Aruma has a range of services such as Supported Independent Living to help you with that. • Behavioural Support: Aruma can help to understand why an adult or a child with a disability may engage in inappropriate, challenging, or unsafe behaviours, and work together with you to find a solution. • Support Coordination: Aruma’s

•

Support Coordinators are the local experts and can help you find disability services that are right for you. Daily Living Skills: Daily Living Skills are the skills we use in everyday life. Like cooking, cleaning, using money, catching public transport, the list goes on! Aruma can help you here, too. Short Term Accommodation (respite): Aruma has a number of welcoming Short Term Accommodation properties for people with a disability across New South Wales, Victoria and the ACT, for when you need a break.

www.aruma.com.au

linkonline.com.au

subscribe now

Link is Australia’s premier cross-disability publication, produced six times a year and with the key aim of disseminating disability information with news, discussion, advice, opinion and so much more on a range of issues and topics regarding disability.

Tax Invoice LINK MAGAZINE

Get in touch!

SUBSCRIPTIONS

1 YEAR

2 YEARS

INDIVIDUAL

$54

$94

CONCESSION

$30

$46

e subscriptions@intermedia.com.au p 02 8227 6486 a Link Magazine PO Box 161, HORNSBY NSW 1630

MULTI-PACK (3)

$124

$175

SUBSCRIBE ONLINE

INTERNATIONAL (AUD)

$72

$120

(six issues per year)

All prices inc. GST

April/May 2022

@ subscribe.linkonline.com.au

ACCOMMODATION & HOME SUPPORT

Helping clients achieve their goals and a degree! Rachel has been with Community Support for 14 years and recently earned her Bachelor of Arts degree at Flinders University, where she majored in drama and screen studies. This is an amazing achievement for someone who has grown up on the stage and decided to pursue further studies to help reach her goals.

ommunity Support has provided various supports for Rachel over the years, including transport to university and drama classes and some mentoring support for her university studies. It is important for Community Support to match its support workers to the client’s needs and in this case were able to find the right person to help Rachel attend university and pursue her dream. “I hope my achievement is proof that people living with a disability can pursue academic success with the appropriate supports in place,” she said. Community Support has been providing in home and in the community supports for people living with a disability, mental health, or aged care related need for over 30 years. It offers a range of professional, flexible services for children, young people and adults requiring home or community support across all SA metropolitan and key regional areas.

www.csisa.org.a u

With qualified staff supporting clients, the organisation provides individuals with everything they need to help them live their life, their way. “At Community Support we focus on putting the client’s goals and aspirations at the centre of everything we do. “We are constantly looking for ways to improve our service delivery and supports and ensuring we attract the best staff to deliver services”, Community Support CEO Gus Abimosleh said. “Community Support worked with the client to put in place strategies to help her achieve her goals.” It is rewarding to see the support we provide, have a wonderful outcome for clients like Rachel, so they can be as independent as possible and achieve their dreams whether studying, playing a musical instrument, painting or playing sport,” he said.

www.csisa.org.au

linkonline.com.au

Link to...News

Bounce Back mattress recycling project - Springs to life SA Group Enterprises is poised to recycle 100,00 mattresses by 2024, diverting over 90 per cent from landfill due to the manual separation processes undertaken. Employee, Jay Hart, is proud of the contribution he makes to the recycling process of this tricky waste product, “I have worked at SA Group Enterprises for 18 months and have moved into the Bounce Back Mattress Recycling business and I know all the different bits that go to different areas to be broken down into new products”. This includes foam that goes into carpet underlays. The wood is chipped and circulated into garden mulch and the wire is bundled for repurposing into new products. For executive manager, Andrew Wallace, it is the culmination of many years planning to see this recycling plant open. “I am excited to see Bounce Back Mattress Recycling operational and playing an important role in providing a socially inclusive workplace.

A Group Enterprises have developed some innovative and visionary solutions to some of the trickiest environmental problems currently faced. Since 1990 it has been providing work opportunities for people with disability. Initially opening as Aspitech it rebranded to Electronic Recycling Australia in 2017 and have since diverted over 15,000 tonnes of electronic waste from landfill, equivalent to the Brooklyn Bridge! Recently South Australian Minister for Environment and Water, David Speirs officially opened Bounce Back Mattress Recycling which will operate from the SA Group Enterprises recycling hub at Ottoway.

April/May 2022

Speaking at the event, the minister acknowledged that mattress waste is a tricky type of waste. “Mattresses in landfill are big, they take many decades to break down and through businesses such as Bounce Back we can solve that.” The opening of Bounce Back was a collaboration between Green Industries and the South Australian Government, Minda Incorporated and the Australian Bedding Stewardship Council (ABSC). ABSC spokesperson Tracey Pryor said the manual process undertaken by organisations such as SA Group Enterprises ensures that the maximum amount of waste is diverted from landfill. “As the only manual mattress dismantling recycler in South Australia, it is great to see this business come to fruition”.

With meaningful employment opportunities to people with disability and delivering environmentally sustainable mattress recycling options we can provide a true triple-bottomline benefit to the South Australian community”. For more information on Bounce Back Mattress Recycling, scan the QR code here.

Promoting independence, what’s it all about?

ith the introduction of the NDIS there has been a formalised push for more choice, control, and greater independence for participants. It’s a significant step towards increased independence across the board, meaning that participants are able to increase their abilities and more opportunities are being created to involve them as much as possible in their own care. With goals around health, wellbeing and independence, more autonomy for decision-making about their life is now possible. Rather than creating dependencies, the emphasis is on encouraging greater independence, through the provision of advice, supports and practical solutions to enable people to live full, satisfying, and independent lives.

So, what is promoting independence all about? It’s about working with your providers on a series of small steps and incremental changes that add up to a more empowered lifestyle and more control for yourself. Getting there requires patience and perseverance to adapt. It’s about starting slowly, by being empowered with your daily life decisions. It can be simple things like washing the dishes and doing the laundry. As you build up your decision-making confidence with everyday decisions and activities, your confidence transfers into new and more challenging situations. Take Caleb Crowden, for instance. Caleb aged 21, is from Adelaide. He was born with cerebral palsy and lives with his mother. As a permanent wheelchair user, Caleb

ACCOMMODATION & HOME SUPPORT

is focused on building his capacity and skills to eventually be able to live independently in his own space. He’s working towards that goal with incremental steps. Taking the lead from his mother, he has learned a whole range of daily living activities, such as cooking, cleaning and doing his own laundry. And with each step continues to increase in confidence. Talking about his goals he said: “Getting the right equipment to help you to do the tasks you want to be able to do yourself is important. As much as I love my mum, she knows that I’m building towards living independently in my own space as soon as I can. Which is why I’m enjoying doing housework. I know the more I can do for myself, the more confident I will be to make the move.”

www.mrspeg

gs.com.au

linkonline.com.au

Link to...News

The reality of going blind featured in new book and audio series Going blind felt like someone pulling venetian blinds down in front of Paul’s eyes. For Brittnee, it felt like her brain hadn’t registered she had opened her eyes yet. For Cheryl, her hardest day was handing in her driver’s licence.

hese stories of eight Australians living with blindness or vision loss and a carer’s experience are showcased in a book and a udio series by Vision Australia called Let’s Talk About Vision Loss.

being sent to ophthalmologists’ waiting rooms. The book also includes QR codes to each participant’s full 15minute audio story that can be listened to when the person is ready.

The storytellers cover their emotional experiences of vision loss, advice for others facing similar experiences and the services that led them to live independently again.

It also provides information on services outside of the doctor’s office, from emotional support groups, technology options and walking aids, to government services like the NDIS and the blind pension

The series is designed to help people at the point of diagnosis, with the book

Research conducted by Vision Australia revealed people with lived

www.varadio.org 70

April/May 2022

experience, including those who have a recent diagnosis of vision loss, have a profound lack of understanding of the available services. As a result, individuals are at risk of delaying getting the services they need to live independently with vision loss. Listen to the stories at www.visionaustralia.org/letstalk. You can also receive a free hard copy of the book by filling out the form online at: visionaustralia.org/letstalk/order

NEWS

Amy and Parker’s Story: “Parker was around three months old when I first noticed that something was a little bit different about his eyes. I kept that information to myself for over a month. I felt I needed time as a mother to prepare because I knew whatever was going to come was going to be quite big. It was a difficult time. We couldn't talk about it. I was numb.”

Pauls Story: “I’d be getting out of bed and it felt like someone had turned down the volume a little bit on my eyesight. I think the biggest advice I can give anyone is to be patient with yourself and not set your expectations too high. You have to learn a truckload of stuff to function as a person without vision.”

trivida® Introducing a new devidable wheelchair wheel. A triumph for freedom and independence!

Barrier-free living.

Find The outdividable more at: trivida wheel www.trivida.com.au facilitates mobility for wheelchair

trivida® plastic wheel

For more information: +61 (0) 400 533 825 info@trivida.com.au

users in everyday life. By removing the top segment of the wheel, daily Sales &between Service wheelchair and transfers Australia/New Zealand bed, toilet or shower stool, couch, +61 (0)stair 400lift 533or825 chair, car seat require lessinfo@trivida.com.au energy and are therefore easier.

linkonline.com.au

Link to...Travel & Leisure

What’s New in Books Add one of these to your must-read book list. We’ve Got This by Eliza Hull

A Fraction Stronger by Mark Berridge

This first major anthology by parents with disability was written by musician Eliza Hull when she was pregnant with her first child.

A high-powered corporate career came crashing down for Mark Berridge when his bicycle understeered through a corner with the impact wrenching him over the handlebars and catapulting him headfirst into a stormwater drain.

But as a person with a disability, there were added complexities such as: Would the pregnancy be too hard, would people judge her, and could she cope with the demands of parenting?

After nine months of rehabilitation his sustained effort to regain mobility became part of his new identity.

More than 15 per cent of Australian households have a parent with a disability, but their stories are rarely shared, or their experiences not always reflected in parenting literature. The book features 25 parents who identify as deaf, have a disability or are chronically ill, who reveal the highs and lows of their parenting journeys and that the biggest obstacles lie in other people’s attitude. Among the contributors are Jacinta Parsons, Graeme Innes, Jax Jacki Brown and Elly May Barnes. Visit: www.blackincbooks.com

In his book he shares practical lessons and insights that readers can apply to their own challenges. This is not a story about a miracle but an everyday person who reframed his demons into sources of motivation and fighting for your dream when it starts to fade. Against All Odds by Emily Korir This is a compelling book about grit and determination that developed into a newfound passion for disability support work, was launched on International Women’s Day. Refusing to be a victim of circumstances, that included a stroke followed by a year of rehabilitation, Emily Korir, and her husband Bernard, have set up what is said to be the fastest growing disability housing service provider in South Australia. An advocate for choice and control for people living in the bush she has plans to build the first accessible respite home in Kenya for children with disability. “Being raised by a single mother in Kenya, and leaving home for a foreign environment, suffering a stroke at a young age are just some of the challenges that have shaped my perspective on facing obstacles,” she said. To order visit: https://againstallodds.com.au

April/May 2022

“We all have obstacles thrown at us, but its how you choose to handle them that counts,” he said. For book details contact Hatchette Publishing on: 02 8248 0800

A holiday is high on the priority list

TRAVEL & LEISURE

Following a busy summer of emerging from lockdowns and border closures the thoughts for many have shifted to the future and holiday ideas for 2022 and beyond.

ecognising the pent-up demand for upcoming holidays the team at Supported Travel specialist Leisure Options has been busy preparing their 2022 – 2023 holiday program with over 80 small group departures on offer. We are lucky to live in such large country with an incredibly diverse range of holiday destinations available. Relaxing beach breaks, exciting outback explorations, scenic mountain getaways and vibrant city escapes are just some of the travel opportunities available in Leisure Option’s upcoming holiday program.

The team have also planned for the return of cruising and international travel with registrations open for some exciting overseas itineraries to popular destinations such as New Zealand, Disneyland and Singapore. While not everyone prefers to travel as part of a group the dedicated and experienced travel coordinators at Leisure Options are always on hand to assist you in creating a personalised 1:1 supported itinerary to a destination of your choice, if that is your preferred style of holiday. If you have a bucket list holiday or dream destination the travel team are here to help make that dream a reality.

As always, Leisure Option’s group departures are backed by a Holiday Guarantee ensuring that, once your booking is secured your holiday is guaranteed to travel. This guarantee offers you the peace of mind in knowing that your holiday will not be cancelled, and you can plan accordingly. The 2022-2023 holiday program is now available. To receive a copy, contact Leisure Options on: 03 9646 066 or: mail@leisureoptions. com.au. Digital brochures can also be downloaded by visiting leisureoptions.com.au

ww w.le isur eop tion s.co m.a u We support the

linkonline.com.au

Link to...Travel & Leisure

The Luggie makes it easy Go where the wheels take you.

etting from point A to point B isn't always simple. When point B is a table at that charming cafe by the water, or a shopping centre, or even a plaza in Milan, a car can only get you so far.

Weighing just over 20 kilograms, the Luggie folds into a flat board that is easily levered into the car boot. It is also fully airline and cruise compliant, opening up a swathe of domestic, and hopefully soon, international travel options.

Enter the Luggie mobility scooter. Lightweight, manoeuvrable, and portable, the Luggie goes where you go, and can even take you further.

Adventurous, Luggie-riding Aussies can be spotted all around the globe, even on the boardwalks of Iceland.

Luggies come in a variety of models: wide track for extra stability or narrow for extra manoeuvrability. Hard tyres can be exchanged for soft tyres and suspension. It all depends on user preference. If you someone who could do with an extra set of legs, maybe try out the Luggie. It might surprise you how simple things can be.

Unfold & Go 8 models to choose from: • Wide track versions, for greater stability. • Soft suspension, for a smoother ride. Makes travel easy.

PREMIUM FOLDING SCOOTERS

Online sales & free delivery*

1300 622 633

www.scootersAus.com.au SCA34714_Unfold-Go-Scooter_79x182mmW_Link.indd 1

April/May 2022

*Conditions apply

1/11/21 9:57 am

TRAVEL & LEISURE

Discovering sport and recreation options in Victoria is easy… with AAA Play Operated by Reclink Australia, Access for All Abilities (AAA Play) provides a dedicated referral and connection service for those with a disability to find sports and recreational opportunities in Victoria.

ach year the site helps thousands of people discover new ways to be more active through its website that contains over 600 accessible opportunities, or through its referral service. When visiting the website, you can use a range of filters to find accessible events, sport and recreation activities or leisure centres. For those wanting more help in

community clubs, local governments and disability specific sport and recreation providers, AAA Play can link each person with a suitable sport or recreation activity, in a timely manner.

finding what they want, they can easily enquire to find what suits. AAA Play works with the enquirer to identify what activity they wish to be involved in, what their disabilities are, and where they are located.

To find something near you today, visit the website at: www.aaaplay.org.au/ or contact by email at: request@aaavic.org.au

Drawing on a network of state sporting associations, Regional Sports Assemblies, active

Want to play sport? AAA Play is operated by Reclink Australia. We help people connect with accessible sport and recreation near them. Call, email or visit our website to find something near you.

P 1800 222 842 E request@aaavic.org.au

@aaaplay

@aaavic

ww w.aaaplay.org.au aaaplay.org.au linkonline.com.au

Link to...Employment

A helping hand to secure NDIS funding NOVA Transition, a division of NOVA Employment assists school leavers with NDIS funding to transition to the workforce, preparing them for work and helping them find great jobs. to become job-ready and then find a suitable job. Verina, a team leader at NOVA Employment Penrith, successfully placed Jarrod into employment. “NOVA Transition gave Jarrod the opportunity to do multiple work experience placements. Jarrod really enjoyed the work at IGA since it is extremely organised, and this played to his strengths," she said. Jarrod also comes from a very supportive family. His father, George, talks lovingly of his son. “As a young child Jarrod was a joy to be with. He’s been a great kid. He’s always interested in everything. As the years progressed, I think from about 13 years old he wanted to become an actor… my greatest fear with Jarrod joining the workforce wasn’t so much working, it was actually getting him to work.” NOVA not only offers support on-site at the workforce, but also assists with travel training. Verina is proud of the fact that Jarrod is now traveling independently to and from work.

OVA Employment supports individuals with a wide variety of disabilities and barriers. Statistics show consistently good outcomes for people with intellectual disabilities, autism, mental illness and mental health disabilities. And 90 per cent of Transition graduates gain and remain in meaningful employment. NOVA secures real jobs in the general labour market that match individual aspirations, skills and abilities, rather than congregated or sheltered employment options. NOVA helps employers on board their new

April/May 2022

worker, make adjustments to the role if necessary, and provide ongoing training to become a valued part of the team. Meet Jarrod, who thanks to NOVA is a retail assistant at SUPA IGA. Jarrod has autism. “My hobbies are playing video games and watching movies and TV shows, but now I also go out a lot. Since I’ve started working, I’ve made lots of friends,” he said. NOVA has skilled staff that take the time to make sure each young person receives the best possible support

Julie Jones is the front end controller at Jarrod’s workplace, SUPA IGA. “I think Jarrod is very good for the role. He always does what he’s asked to do. NOVA comes into the store and checks on Jarrod to make sure that he’s happy and doing his job right.” As a result of the collaboration between NOVA Transition and NOVA Employment, Jarrod is happy, his father is proud and his employer has a fantastic employee. To find out more visit www.novaemployment.com.au or www.transition.com.au

www.novaemployment.com.au

Link to...Employment

Telstra: “Including people with disability benefits everyone” Supporting and including all employees in the workplace is important for Telstra employees, its customers and the community. Telstra want to create an environment for everyone where we celebrate diversity and inclusion, and where acceptance is the norm, not the exception. Through its Interview Guarantee, all shortlisted candidates (globally) who identify as living with a disability are automatically offered an interview. This means we can maximise our opportunity to consider people living with disabilities for open roles and increase our pipeline of diverse talent.

large section of our society lives with disability, which is why Telstra is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment that treats everyone equitably. At Telstra we have a formal Action Plan that describes our commitments to inclusive employment, our responsibilities to our employees and their carers, as well as to our customers and the wider community. For our customers, Telstra offers a range of products, services and programs to improve digital inclusion outcomes for its customers and communities, addressing each of the key barriers to inclusion: Access, Affordability and Digital Ability. These activities include ensuring our products and services are accessible for people with disability. A great example of this is the My Telstra app, which is constantly reviewed for accessibility at every release ensuring that Telstra meet the needs for all people, whatever their hardware, software, language or ability.

April/May 2022

For the wider community, we focus our social investment on improving digital inclusion and enabling opportunities for access to employment prioritising disadvantaged, diverse, vulnerable communities. The Tech4Good program has supported initiatives such as: • Autism CRC’s MyWay Employability project • Expression Australia’s Auslan Anywhere project • Orygen Digital’s Mello program. Telstra is an endorsing organisation for the Department of Social Services’ Disability Employment Strategy, which focuses on ensuring barriers for entering the workforce and employment process are addressed in a supportive and inclusive way. For its employees, Telstra has been awarded the Disability Confident Recruiter Accreditation from the Australian Network on Disability (AND). Telstra work hard to create a barrier free recruitment process by providing access to recruiters and adjustments during the recruitment process.

In partnership with Specialisterne, a not-for-profit social innovation enterprise, Telstra piloted a neurodiverse recruitment program in 2020 that looked at an alternative recruitment approach that removes barriers for autistic individuals. Telstra successfully onboarded the new employees through the pilot and created autism awareness training for the hiring leaders and their teams so that they were ready to welcome new candidates. We continued our commitment to building an inclusive workplace by investing in our leaders through training, education and coaching circles for peer-to-peer support and learning. All of this work is supported and championed by our employee representative group, TelstrAbility, a team of passionate Telstra employees supporting a culture and workplace where accessibility and disability is normalised, and everyone feels they belong. Some of our TelstrAbility members have collaborated on a short video for IDPWD 2021 where they answer a series of interesting and confronting questions about some of the challenges and biases they face each day. The video (with captions) is available online here: https://exchange. telstra.com.au/including-people-withdisability-benefits-everyone/

RECYCLE YOUR MATTRESSES WITH BOUNCE BACK Bounce Back Mattress Recycling has been established to reduce the current problem of mattresses contributing to overflowing landfill issues in Australia by diverting a minimum of 75% of all mattress components to other recycling streams. We are continuing to explore new opportunities to increase recycling rates and improve outcomes for the environment.

M AT T R E DR OP- S S OFF & C OL L E C T IO S E R V IC N AVA IL A E BL E IN S A

Bounce Back Mattress Recycling is an initiative of SA Group Enterprises who employs over 600 staff, of which 350 identify with a disability, receiving supports in employment. By recycling your mattress with Bounce Back, you can be confident knowing that you are helping to maintain an environment that has a focus on ability and inclusion for all.

Scan for more information on mattress recycling wbouncebackrecycling.com.au ww.bouncebackrecy cling.com.au

Link to...Happenings

Register now for the Brain Injury Conference According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, (ABS) 730,000 Australian have an Acquired Brain Injury from motor vehicle and workplace accidents, falls and assaults. "That number surprises a lot of people, but is likely an underestimate", Brain Injury Australia executive officer Nick Rushworth told Link.

ushworth is chair of the National Brain Injury Conference that will be held at the University of Sydney Business School from June 28-30. According to Rushworth the ABS does not survey disability in jails where he said as many as 80 per cent of adult prisoners have sustained a brain injury. “Neither has it captured remote areas where just three per cent of Australians live but nearly half of them are Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, whose rates of brain injury are three times that of the rest of the population." Brain injury is often referred to as "the invisible disability" as most people make a good physical recovery, but their thinking or behaviour remains impacted. "This also applies at the population level", Rushworth said. "Brain injury hasn't received the same kind of policy attention or service development as other disabilities." This is what makes the Brain Injury Australia Annual Conference a unique learning and development event on the disability calendar. “People living with a brain injury, their families and carers not only take pride of place on the program as speakers but comprise the largest share of delegates to the conference. People with lived experience of the disability have allowed the conference to drive improvements in the supports they receive," he said.

April/May 2022

Among more than 80 presenters are PRODEO president Dr Harris Eyre who will deliver the international keynote on global brain health and reveal the

chief knowledge officer at Belvedere Health Services, New York State, will lead a workshop on positive behaviour support following brain injury. Rachel Ramirez, founder and director of The Centre on PartnerInflicted Brain Injury, in Ohio, will deliver a workshop on domestic and family violence and brain injury. Gary Browne, professor of emergency medicine at The University of Sydney will lead a workshop on best practice diagnosis, assessment and management of concussion and "mild" traumatic brain injury (TBI). The two-day conference also includes keynote addresses and concurrent sessions. Day one of the conference will be capped with a screening of “Mystify Michael Hutchence” documentary about the challenges the rock singer faced after sustaining a TBI in 1992.

neurological impact from Covid where as many as one-third of those infected sustain brain injury. Neurosurgeon Dr. Charlie Teo will also present his research into Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), the use of magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells to enhance recovery from brain injury.

Discounted registrations are available for group bookings, for delegates attending a pre-conference workshop and the two-day conference and for people with a disability, their family members and carers. Brain Injury Australia has also received funding from the Department of Social Services to support the attendance of people with a disability. Day-only registrations are available too.

For the first time, three pre-conference workshops and concurrent sessions have been added. Dr Tim Feeney,

To view the conference program and register go to; www.braininjuryconference.com.au

Michael Hutchence fencing

WHAT'S ON

Fund raiser for Friedreich’s Ataxia At the end of February Caitlin Maynard visited Melbourne to attend a charity event for the genetic condition, Friedreich’s Ataxia (FA).

t included a patient forum to hear about the latest research and a fundraising gala dinner for the Friedreich’s Ataxia Research Association of Australia (FARA). FARA Australia is a not-for-profit that raises money to fund research. Maynard who has Friedreich’s Ataxia, is a FARA ambassador. This rare, genetic, neuromuscular disease affects one in every 30,000 people in Australia.It can lead to major heart problems, vision and hearing loss and a high risk of diabetes. Most people with FA will eventually lose the ability to walk without a mobility aide. At the patient forum several experts spoke about current research projects. Among the speakers were neurologist Martin Delatycki who gave details about a new drug that is being trialed, Christina Cortez-Jugo a chemical engineer, Professor Mirella Dottori who is working on gene therapy, and scientist Nellie Geargou-Karistianis

who is conducting a neuro-imaging trial. Speech therapist Adam Vogel and cardiologist researcher Jarmon Lees also spoke at the forum.

Link publisher Simon Cooper with Caitlin Maynard

“It was encouraging to hear about so many different trials going on and from so many different angles, and hopefully all the funds raised will bring us one step closer to finding a treatment and cure,” Maynard said. The purpose of the gala was to raise money for the research presented at the forum with a silent auction that raised over $70,000. “After having to reschedule twice due to Covid it was great to finally get together on the dance floor and celebrate making it through the past two years,” she said. According to Maynard, the best part of the evening was being able to have a fun night out and be around people with the same condition. “No one stared or asked intrusive questions about my wheelchair or disability

because we all knew why we were there, all with the same disability. To attend and enjoy the night without any of the extra hassle that we might have got somewhere else.”

Biennale of Sydney Australia’s biggest event in the contemporary art calendar is open in Sydney until June 13. If offers large-scale immersive installations, site specific projects and works by local and international artists.

mong the highlights are a 365-million-year-old fish fossil on display at the Museum of Contemporary Art; Flows is one of the largest bamboo structures that swirls around the ceiling at The Cutaway site at Barangaroo; above this on the Stargazer Lawn is the Great Animal Orchestra, animal and ocean sounds presented in an immersive, visual soundscape and at the

Art Gallery of NSW is another intriguing project, One Beat, One Tree, that allows you to plant a virtual tree and encourage it to grow with a body movement. Definitely one that will appeal to children. All sites are accessible, although a couple of outdoor sites might be affected by the weather. For more details visit: www.biennaleofsydney.art linkonline.com.au

Link to...Happenings

What's On Calendar MAY

MAY/JUNE

MAY 11-12: ATSA Independent Living Expo Royal International Convention Centre – Brisbane www.atsaindependentlivingexpo.com.au

MAY 31 - JUNE 2: Disability Employment Australia 2022 Conference Four Seasons Hotel - Sydney https://dea.CW3.events

JUNE 18-19: Source Kids Disability Expo Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre www.sourcekids.com.au

MAY 13-14: Hunter Disability Expo Newcastle Entertainment Centre Showground www.hunterdisabilityexpo.com.au

JUNE

JUNE 28-30: National Brain Injury Conference University of Sydney Business School https://braininjuryconference.com.au

MAY 20-21: Perth Disability Connection Expo Perth Exhibition & Convention Centre www.eventbrite.com.au MAY 25-26: ATSA Independent Living Expo Sydney Olympic Park www.atsaindendentlivingexpo.com.au

JUNE 9-10: Occupational Therapy Exchange 2022 Centrepiece, Melbourne Park www.otausevents.com.au/ otexchange2022 JUNE 17-18: Gold Coast Disability Expo Gold Coast Convention & Exhibition Centre www.goldcoastdisabilityexpo.com.au

JUNE/JULY JUNE 30 - JULY 1: 11th National Deafblind Conference Esplanade Hotel – Fremantle, WA. chloe@icebergevents.com.au

All events were correct as this issue went to press. Refer to websites for updates.

Entries for Art Screen now open Accessible Arts video art program ArtScreen 2022 that supports video artists with disability, or who are d/Deaf to develop video artworks, is now open for applications. support is available from partnering organisations Bus Stop Films and Western Sydney community creative hub A.C.E. As part of this program, artists will undertake a professional mentorship from video artist Dr Zanny Begg.

wo artists will be selected to create new works which explore themes of identity, access and social connectedness. Each artist will receive $11,500 in grant funding toward the production of their work. An additional $9,000 of in-kind production

April/May 2022

“ArtScreen aims to broaden engagement with, and appreciation of, the distinctive insights and skills of artists with disability,” Accessible Arts CEO, Liz Martin said. “These unique and compelling works make an important contribution to the diversity of cultural expression in Sydney.”

The artworks will be screened at the Sydney Museum of Contemporary Art in celebration of International Day of People with Disability. “The MCA provides a high profile showing and creates a unique opportunity for artists with disability. Previous ArtScreen work has gone on to be further developed and selected as part of this year’s Cannes Short Film Festival,” Martin said. Applications close Tuesday 26 April. For details and to apply visit: https:// aarts.net.au/news/applications-nowopen-for-artscreen-2022/ #AccessibleArts #ApplyNow #ArtScreen #VideoArt

So everyone can thrive We want to help every Australian build a connected future, including those who have difficulty using a standard home phone. Telstra’s Disability Equipment Program offers a range of solutions to support customers who are older or have a disability.

www.telstra.com/disability

Visit telstra.com/disability, or call our Hotline 1800 068 424 (Voice), 133 677 (TTY).

linkonline.com.au

Climbing a mountain can sometimes seem easier than finding providers Our Provider Finder helps you to achieve your goals

Scan me to find your next provider

1800 63 63 77

info@ndsp.com.au

Link Disability Magazine April-May 2022

Articles inside

Cover Story: Paws for thought