August 28, 2024
NDIS Tips
Explore Disability Directory to find local and national support services
Finding your way through disability services can be tough, especially if you’re from a culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) background. The Disability Directory is here to help. It’s your go-to guide, offering resources to support you or a loved one with a disability. Whether you need information on the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) or are looking for local advocacy groups, this directory has you covered.
Understanding the Disability Directory
The Disability Directory is designed to bridge the gap for people with disabilities from migrant and refugee backgrounds. It addresses common barriers such as lack of information, isolation, and difficulty accessing support services. By offering a wide array of resources in multiple languages and connecting users with bilingual carers and culturally appropriate services, the directory ensures inclusivity and accessibility.
NDIS
The following organisations make it easy to help access, navigate and understand the National Insurance Disability Scheme (NDIS), including translated information.
The NDIS website is your one-stop shop for everything related to the National Disability Insurance Scheme. It provides detailed information on accessing services, understanding your rights, and finding providers.
The Disability Gateway offers information and services to help people with disabilities, their families, and carers find the support they need in Australia. It is an invaluable tool for navigating the NDIS landscape.
MiAccess is a multilingual website that gathers translated information to support access to the NDIS. This platform ensures that language barriers do not hinder access to essential services.
Key Multicultural Disability Organisations
The following organisations are specialised to assist and provide services for CALD (culturally and linguistically diverse) people with disability and the Victorian community.
ADEC supports people with disabilities from CALD backgrounds, helping them fully participate in the community. Services include resources, programs, and NDIS coordination.
AMPARO assists CALD individuals with disabilities in understanding disability within the Australian context, providing vital support and advocacy.
NEDA is a national organisation run by and for CALD individuals with disabilities, advocating for their rights and needs.
Local Services
DND – Disability and Diversity
DND is a self-advocacy program for people with disabilities from migrant and refugee backgrounds in North West Victoria, offering peer support and empowerment.
- dnd@mrcnorthwest.org.au
- (03) 9367 6044
- http://www.mrcnorthwest.org.au
Migrant Resource Centre North West
This centre provides NDIS support for participants in Brimbank, Melton, Hume, and Moreland, offering settlement and disability support services.
- 1300 676 044
- http://www.mrcnorthwest.org.au
Exploring Peak Bodies
Amaze works with individuals with autism, helping them engage with the NDIS and build community participation skills.
- info@amaze.org.au
- 1300 308 699
- https://www.amaze.org.au
BCA advocates for blind and vision-impaired Australians, promoting equality and quality services.
- bca@bca.org.au
- 1800 033 660
- https://www.bca.org.au
CV provides multicultural carers with advice, support, and resources in various languages, ensuring they receive the help they need.
- reception@carersvictoria.org.au
- 1800 242 636 | (03) 9396 9500
- https://www.carersvictoria.org.au
Inclusive Employment Opportunities
AtWork helps individuals with disabilities build skills and gain employment, supporting them through job readiness and interviews.
- 1300 080 856
- http://www.mrcnorthwest.org.au
This social enterprise offers an inclusive workplace, providing competitive solutions for business customers and meaningful work for people from all walks of life.
- (03) 9853 7080
- https://www.abilityworks.com.au
JobAccess is the national hub for workplace and employment information for people with disabilities, employers, and service providers, driving disability employment.
- 1800 464 800
- https://www.jobaccess.gov.au
Essential Resources
CEH offers resources on cultural competence, health assessment, and culturally inclusive social support groups, ensuring disability services are accessible and inclusive.
The Disability Leadership Institute offers leadership development and support for disability leaders, including coaching, training, networking, and a range of resources.
Online directory featuring a vast collection of reliable health information – including disability-related material – translated in a large number of languages.
