Mildura Rural City Council, in partnership with Amaze, will host a series of information sessions in July and August to help Sunraysia residents connect with the support they need under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).
Councillor for Community Development and Gender Equality Helen Healy said the introduction of the NDIS earlier this year brought with it a host of changes to the way people access disability services, particularly for those on the Autism Spectrum.
Cr Healy said the upcoming information sessions were the perfect opportunity to learn more about these changes.
There will be three morning sessions, which will run from 9.30am to 12.30pm and three afternoon sessions from 5pm to 8pm on the following days:
Mornings
Monday 22 July. Council's Deakin Avenue Service Centre
Monday 5 August. Benetook Room of the Alfred Deakin Centre
Monday 26 August. Council's Deakin Avenue Service Centre
Afternoons (all session at Council's Deakin Avenue Service Centre)
Tuesday 23 July.
Tuesday 6 August.
Tuesday 27 August
Cr Healy said some of the key information to be presented at the information sessions is the importance of pre-planning.
"Since the NDIS came into effect in the Mallee at the start of the year, it's been pleasing to see that many residents have adapted well," she said.
"Unfortunately, there have also been many individuals and families who have found the new system difficult to navigate, particularly in relation to residents on the Autism Spectrum.
"The six information sessions over the coming two months are a valuable opportunity for these residents to learn more and ask any questions they may have."
The information session will cover the following areas:
- overview of the NDIS
- pre-planning
- writing a carer and participant statement
- setting and writing goals
- effective communication
- advocacy
- community connections and peer support
Once the sessions have concluded there will be opportunities for one-on-one discussions with Amaze representatives to discuss their specific circumstances.
