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Disability Education and Employment News:Vol 2 No 7 - Wednesday, 3rd May 2006 |
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Enhancing post secondary education, training and employment opportunities for people with a disability RDLO & DCOs National Website |
Compiled by Timothy Hart DCO for Northern, Central and Southern Sydney |
To return to the DCO Disability Newsletter Archive Page go to http://www.cdds.med.usyd.edu.au/dco/newsletter or click here
In this Disability Education and Employment News under Conferences for
For those planning to attend Tertiary education next year, under Scholarships there is information on eight new Freedom Scientific and Quantum Technology scholarships for copies of JAWS Professional screen reading program as well as the Deaf Children Australia Youth Grants 2006. Plus other News articles, Conferences and Workshops, Resources and other information for the disability education and employment sectors.
Please distribute the Newsletter to those that you think would be interested in it.
If you have a Resource, a Scholarship, Workshop, Conference, an Event or any other information that is Disability Education or Employment related and you wish to promote it here please e-mail me at thart@med.usyd.edu.au
For information on subscribing, please go to the end of the newsletter.
Calls for Expressions of Interest and Input
Education News:
Working on work skills
Business must play a role in shaping the attributes of graduates, write Wendy Green and Sara Hammer
May 03, 2006
THE latest Business Council of Australia report raises concerns about the level of graduate employability skills within the Australian work force and suggests universities have some way to go before their graduates meet employer expectations in this regard.
However, the responsibility for developing the necessary graduate attributes should not be shouldered by universities alone; employer groups surely can be expected to take a more active role.
The BCA report New Concepts in Innovation: The Keys to a Growing Australia argues that Australian education systems, including universities, are failing to develop employability skills such as communication, problem solving, ongoing learning, creativity, cultural understanding, entrepreneurship and leadership.
Universities worldwide have been responding to similar criticisms from employer groups for some time. In
For the rest of the article go to
http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,20867,19003469-12332,00.html
For the Report go to http://www.bca.com.au/content.asp?newsid=99520
The cost of an education in inflation
Kate Whittingham and her husband will spend about $35,000 on school fees this year.
Photo: Sandy Scheltema
By Renee Switzer
April 27, 2006
AN INCREASE of almost 6 per cent in the cost of education in the past year is one of the reasons inflation is accelerating, cranking up the anxiety levels of Australian families.
Port
The cost of all levels of education rose in the March quarter, coinciding with the start of the new school year.
Pre-school and primary education rose 5.4 per cent, secondary education by 6.9 per cent, and tertiary by 4.8 per cent.
For the rest of the article go to
New technical colleges in crisis
Samantha Maiden, Political correspondent
April 25, 2006
JOHN Howard's vision for 24 federally funded technical colleges to tackle the skills shortage has unravelled, with the Government threatening to strip some regions of the training centres promised at the last election.
The vocational colleges, which fall largely in marginal electorates held by the Coalition, from
But Vocational Training and Education Minister Gary Hardgrave revealed yesterday that three of the colleges could be scrapped after bidders failed to satisfy government tender requirements and another four were running behind schedule and may not open on time.
The colleges, to be established at a cost of $350 million over four years, were to offer tuition to 7500 students by 2009.
For the rest of the article go to
http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,20867,18920497-12332,00.html
The doctorate of mind over matter
April 24, 2006
Peter Gibilisco's PhD draws on his own experience with disability.
Photo: Eddie Jim
A thesis on the disability of our market economy has broken new ground, writes Adam Morton.
For the rest of the article go to
Students under 'too much pressure'
By Vanessa Burrow
April 23, 2006
VICTORIAN teens would be happier and healthier if the link between VCE results and university entrance (ENTER) scores was broken.
Eltham College of Education principal David Warner says year 12 students are at risk of mental illness and suicide because of the pressure of their final school year.
For the rest of the article go to
Employment News:
Discriminated against for a visual impairment
Duncan Meerding
While blindness and low-vision services are quite advanced in
Bernard Hemmings spoke to Green Left Weekly about his experience applying for work at City Bank in mid-2001. “My case officer was so happy when I had the position. I asked her whether she told them I used a guide dog, and she replied that she had, and that they had informed her it would not be a problem.” Subsequently, City Bank called Hemmings, firstly to ask a few questions about his guide dog and then to inform him that the position would not be filled for another six months, and that he could reapply then.
A few days later Hemmings was informed by his employment agency that the second person on the short list had been given the job.
For the rest of the article go to
http://www.greenleft.org.au/back/2006/666/666p8b.htm
New apprenticeship support systems streamlined
Wednesday, 26 April 2006
Employers and employees will benefit from more streamlined apprenticeship support service provision from July 1 this year.
The improvement is a result of the finalisation of new contracts between the Federal Government and local employment and training organisations.
New Apprenticeships Support Services will come into affect at the start of the new financial year and will address skills needs in the traditional trades.
"I am delighted that such a diverse range of organisations have expressed enthusiasm to work with employers and apprentices to provide quality services across
"Under the new contracts, new apprenticeships centres will be required to provide more streamlined services, including facilitating job placements, therefore offering a genuine one-stop-shop for employers and apprentices," Minister Hardgrave explained."
For the rest of the article go to
TIME TO GET A JOB
BY BRAD WORRALL
PENSIONERS, single parents, the disabled and part-timers will be targeted to fill 5000 jobs on the Border in the next four years.
And new laws, which come into effect from July 1, will make that easier.
Yesterday federal Workforce Participation Minister Sharman Stone told a business breakfast in Albury there would be a shortfall of 5000 workers in the region by 2010.
“An ageing population will lead to the downturn and at the same time there are more than 15,000 people in receipt of allowances and pensions in the region,” she said.
“That’s about a quarter of the working population and a pool of workers that should not be overlooked.
“We have the highest number of people with a disability and single mums not in work in all OECD countries.
“Many of these are telling us they want to work.”
For the rest of the article go to
http://www.bordermail.com.au/news/bm/local/196981.html
Apprentices step up their walk rate
April 25, 2006
Employers complain that young people do not want the work, but when training and conditions are poor, apprentices are leaving, write Lisa Pryor and Debra Jopson.
FLIMSY traineeships that fail to deliver meaningful qualifications have led to an exodus of young people from such jobs. Apprentices and trainees are just as likely to quit as they are to complete their course, figures from the National Centre for Vocational Education Research show.
For the rest of the article go to
Conferences and Workshops:
International Conferences
Summer will arrive before we know it... and this year, it brings the national APSE conference, "Employment for All-- Start a Revolution," to
The conference will emphasize nine themes: best practices; job development; transition from school to employment; public and economic policy trends; program management; placement support; family and consumer issues; and research to practice. Audiences include service providers, people with disabilities, educators, and employers.
Conference Call for Presentations
http://www.apse2006.org/index.php?page=cfp
AHEAD 2006
AHEAD 2006 in
http://www.ahead.org/training/conference/2006_conf/cfp.htm
For further information do not hesitate to contact Erin Evans, Program Co-Chair, AHEAD 2006 E-mail eevans@babson.edu
"Creating Our Future: On Campus and Beyond"
Call for Speakers
Deadline for receipt of material is Friday, June 2, 2006
11th Biannual NEADS National Conference
November 10-12, 2006
Delta Ottawa Hotel and Suites
Come be part of the 20th anniversary celebration of the National Educational Association of Disabled Students (NEADS)! The 2006 Conference Planning Committee invites expressions of interest by individuals interested in speaking on one of the four workshop panels at our biannual national conference, taking place November 10 - 12, 2006 at the Delta Ottawa Hotel and Suites. The theme for this year's conference is Creating Our Future: On Campus and Beyond.
Frank Smith, National Coordinator
National Educational Association of Disabled Students Rm. 426 Unicentre, Carleton University Ottawa, Ontario, K1S 5B6 tel. (613) 526-8008 www.neads.ca http://www.neads.ca/conference2006/en/
National Conferences
Lock 'Them' Up?
Disability & Mental Illness Aren't Crimes Conference
Mercure Hotel
17th-19th May 2006
For more information go to
http://www.sistersinside.com.au/conference2006.htm
2006 National Conference,
Realizing the Vision for Accessible Information: The Way Forward
Venue: Pacific International,
The aim of
A full conference programme and registration pack is now available on the
All enquiries should be directed to:
Tammy Axelsen, Administrative Assistant
Ph: 0417 101 418
Email: roundtableadmn@bigpond.com
Spectronics Assisted
Inclusive Learning Technologies®
Surfers
The program can be found at http://www.spectronicsinoz.com/winterschool/
ACROD's Inaugural National Conference on Social Participation
30 - 31 May 2006 -
For more information go to http://www.acrod.org.au/conferences/SP2006/home.htm
Contact Information: Gabrielle Jones, Planning Coordinator ACROD NSW
Phone 02 9503 1603 gabe@acrodnsw.net
Brain Injury
Brain Injury Australia's (BIA) will be hosting its inaugural National Conference in Gold Coast
For further information about the Conference or the final date for submission of abstracts please contact ACQ Conference & Event Management on:
Ph: (07) 3725 5588 Email: bia2006@acqi.org.au
"Doing it Better" - Learning Disabilities in Education and Employment Forum
A working forum on learning disabilities in education and employment
Are you interested in knowing more about Learning Disabilities?
Do you need more information about issues currently facing individuals with learning disabilities and their educators in
Are you wanting to be part of a group exploring how we in
September 24 - 27, 2006
Rydges Hotel,
Further Information and registration: www.deakin.edu.au/events/ldc2006
The Doing it Better Forum is sponsored by Deakin University, LaTrobe University, RMIT University and Freedom Scientific. Gavin Reid from the
The Forum aims to meet some of the ground swell of concern that is currently evident in the wider community about the unmet educational and learning requirements of students who are assessed as having a learning disability.
The forum aims to address:
3rd International Forum On Disability Management
You can view the website at http://www.ifdm.com.au/
Australian Rehabilitation & Assistive Technology Association National Conference 2006
The conference will provide a forum for exploring issues in technology for people with disabilities.
Contact details: A.M. Meetings Plus
Phone: 03 9372 7182 (International: +61 3 9372 7182)
Email: arata@ammp.com.au
Web site: http://www.e-bility.com/arata/conf.php
“The Right to the Right Health Care” - Evidence, ethics and health in people with developmental disability
An Annual National Health Conference jointly organised by Centre for Developmental Disability Studies Australian and Association of Developmental Disability Medicine
15th-17th November, 2006 SMC Conference Centre (
For further information or to place your name on a mailing list to receive the conference registration brochure, please email tonyharman@med.usyd.edu.au
PATHWAYS 8 NATIONAL CONFERENCE 2006-Hobart
On behalf of the Australian Tertiary Education Network on Disability and the Pathways 8 Organising Committee, it is my pleasure to invite you to
For more information go to http://www.leishman-associates.com.au/pathways8/
Don’t forget to submit your abstract! The deadline is 26 May 2006
“Toward 2020: what WE do NOW will make the difference”
…. promises to be a Pathways Conference with a difference!
The program applies to teachers, lecturers, researchers, policy developers, students as well as disability practitioners in any industry. This is THE conference to attend in relation to enhancing successful education and career opportunities for people with disability.
If you choose to submit an abstract, and are selected for the program, your presentation will precede workshops on particular topics and streams, and will provide an important platform for discussion. In addition international and local experts have been confirmed and will give keynote presentations on a range of topics.
For some presentation topic suggestions, guidance on how to submit your abstract, as well as a range of other information about the conference including the excellent keynote speaker program, please see the website at www.leishman-associates.com.au/pathways8
If you have any questions about this event please contact the conference organisers, Leishman Associates, on telephone (03) 6234 7844
PRE CONFERENCE WORKSHOPS
The Pathways8 Organising Committee are also calling for expressions of interest from people who would like to conduct a 2-3 hour Pre-Conference Workshop on a topic relevant to the conference theme. Pre-conference workshops will be conducted at Wrest Point Convention Centre on Tuesday 28 November 2006.
VICTORIAN EVENTS
Spectronics workshops
Workshop One: Hands-on with textHELP Read&Write GOLD
(B.Y.O. Laptop Recommended – with Read&Write GOLD installed)
Cost for Workshop: $90 (Morning and Afternoon Tea provided)
Date: Monday 29th May 2006
Time: 10.00am to 4.00pm
Where? RACV Club, Level 2,
Who should attend?
- Teachers/Learning Support staff from schools/TAFE/University campuses where textHELP Read&Write GOLD is installed
- Individuals who have purchased the program but wish to learn more in a hands-on style workshop
This is a B.Y.O. laptop session. Please note that you will be required to have the software installed on your laptop – we will not be providing the software or the computers for this session. The workshop will be presented using textHELP Read&Write GOLD Version 8, but will still be of value to people who are using textHELP Read&Write GOLD Version 7.1 (or the Standard Versions of textHELP Read&Write Version 7.1 or 8)
Workshop Two: Introduction to textHELP Read&Write GOLD Version 8
Cost for Workshop: FREE
Date: Tuesday 30th May 2006
Time 10.00am – 1.00pm
Where? Hotel Y,
Who should attend?
- People who are unfamiliar with the program
- People who have some experience of the program – but want a better idea of the many ways in which it can offer support to students who are struggling
Participants will leave this workshop with a solid understanding of the many reasons to consider textHELP Read&Write GOLD for support of the diverse range of students who are experiencing difficulties with their studies - whatever the reason for their struggle.
For more information about the textHELP Read&Write GOLD program - please visit our web at http://www.spectronicsinoz.com/browse.asp?cat=22390
To register for either of these workshops - please fax the attached completed registration form to me on (07) 3808 6108 or email me at barbara@spectronicsinoz.com to confirm your attendance. Please feel free to contact me by email or phone (07) 3808 6833 with any queries about the workshops.
NSW EVENTS
SETTING DIRECTIONS SEMINAR 2006 - University education options for people with disabilities
A FREE SEMINAR
Come to this seminar and find out about: • alternative entry schemes • choosing careers • disability services • assistive technology • talks by current students and graduates • financial issues • and it’s not all study!
Date • Saturday 27 May 2006
Times • Registration 9.30am
Seminar 10.00am – 4.00pm
Venue •
For registration & further details
Contact Liz Claridge
Tel • (02) 9385 6768
Mob • 0418 981 199
Fax • (02) 9385 6262
Email • e.claridge@unsw.edu.au
For further venue information contact
(02) 9514 1183 or visit http://www.ssu.uts.edu.au/sneeds/Setting_Directions/index.html for the brochure and the registration form.
• RSVP • Friday 19 May 2006
DEAN Professional Development Day
Date and Location: Wednesday 28th June,
Topic: Welfare to Work.
Further information will be posted closer to the date.
http://www.anu.edu.au/disabilities/DEAN/news/
New Resources:
A
The U.S. Department of Education strives to expand educational opportunities and to improve instruction for all students. To achieve excellence in education for students with disabilities, Secretary of Education Margaret Spellings launched an initiative focused on improving teaching, learning, and assessing by increasing states’ capacity to provide rigorous assessment, instruction, and accountability for these students. The keys to this effort are instruction and assessment, relying on the most current and accurate information on how students with disabilities learn while also measuring student performance to ensure continuous growth and progress.
For more information go to
http://www.osepideasthatwork.org/toolkit/
Women With Disabilities
Women With Disabilities Australia (WWDA) have just released a new online Referral Directory to help find information about services and organisations across
For Education and Training
http://www.wwda.org.au/portedu.htm
For Employment
http://www.wwda.org.au/portemp.htm
For further information contact Women With Disabilities (WWDA) on (03) 6244 8288. Email: wwda@ozemail.com.au
Summaries of the New Workplace Laws
For information, check the following websites (or phone the office):
http://www.workplace.gov.au the Australian Workplace portal;
http://www.oea.gov.au, or the Office of the Employment Advocate on 1300 366 632;
http://www.hreoc.gov.au, or Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission on 1300 369 711
http://www.workchoices.gov.au or the WorkChoices Infoline on 1300 363 264.
http://www.workingcares.org.au/workplace-tool-box The Workplace Tool Box has practical information on understanding and dealing with main components of the legislation.
Though created for the Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA), the summary of the federal government’s new workplace laws includes many links for more details and further assistance. Find the information at http://alia.org.au/employment/workplace.html.
From DISABILITY “DID YOU KNOW?…”
Daily PowerPoints for visual learners and students with special needs
by Cheryl Hagerty, Special Needs Teacher
Sharing ideas: A great teaching tool for visual learners
e-Bility disABILITY information resources
http://www.e-bility.com/articles/visual_learners.php
New Apprenticeships Job Pathways Website
A new website has been launched to help people needing New Apprenticeships job and training information. From staff in New Apprenticeships Centres to employers, job candidates, students, parents and careers advisors in schools, all are able to quickly find potential New Apprenticeships job outcomes that include a sample of the training that could apply to the occupation.
The New Apprenticeships Job Pathways website (http://www.najobpathways.com.au/ ) is a DEST funded resource that has been developed from the popular New Apprenticeships Training Information Service website. Feedback from a variety of Vocational and Technical Education stakeholders has been part of this development.
Disability Initiatives information can be found at
For more information go to www.najobpathways.com.au , www.natinfo.com.au , or call the New Apprenticeships Training Information Service on 1800 338 022.
Welfare to Work package - basic training material, from the National Welfare Rights Network
The introduction of Welfare to Work from 1 July 2006 will see major changes to the social security system. The information is designed to give an overview of the most substantial of these changes. The website will be updated as additional information becomes available.
http://www.welfarerights.org.au/wrtraining/introduction.htm
There are fact sheets on-
· Changes to Disability Support Pension
http://www.welfarerights.org.au/wrtraining/changes%20to%20disability%20support%20pension.htm
· Newstart Allowance
http://www.welfarerights.org.au/wrtraining/Newstart.htm
· The new compliance regime – moving from breaches to suspension of payment
http://www.welfarerights.org.au/wrtraining/the%20new%20compliance.htm
· What happens if I am receiving a payment now?
Employers’ use and views of the VET system 2005 – Summary
This publication presents a summary of results from a national survey of employers conducted in 2005. The survey collects information about employers' use and views of the vocational education and training (VET) system and the various ways employers use the VET system to meet their skill needs. It is available at http://www.ncver.edu.au/publications/1667.html
Creating Accessible Teaching and Support (CATS) an online resource for teaching and supporting university students with disabilities.
The CATS resource http://www.adcet.edu.au/cats has established a framework for good practice that provides information and resources to assist universities to create equitable access for students with disabilities and to comply with the Disability Discrimination Act and the Disability Standards for Education. The project that developed this resource and a series of accompanying booklets has been funded by the Carrick Institute for Learning and Teaching.
Workplace Modifications Scheme (WMS)
There have been some recent and important changes to the Workplace Modifications Scheme (WMS) resulting from the Australian Governments Welfare to Work policy and consultations with industry and disability groups.
These changes are outlined below. This information has been taken from the Australian governments Job Able website - www.jobable.gov.au By John Power
Changes to the WMS:
All workers with disabilities, including the self-employed, are now potentially eligible for workplace modifications funding. They don't need to be a client of an employment service such as Job Network or DOES, nor do they have to be in receipt of the Disability Support Pension (DSP).
However, WMS applicants not in receipt of the DSP must be able to prove through Centrelink that they meet the impairment criteria for receipt of the DSP. Workers with disabilities whose jobs may be at risk are also eligible for assistance under the scheme.
The employer co-contribution can now be non-financial and can include things such as training or providing flexible working conditions. There is no longer a notional limit to the funding each eligible worker can receive. This means that the amount of funding can be adjusted to provide the type of assistance that the worker with disabilities needs. Some requirements are required when building modifications are being considered.
Reimbursement of items that have been purchased without prior approval will not be reimbursed unless previously approved by the Department.
Changes to the Administration of the WMS include:
Claims totalling less than $10 000 from DEWR-funded service providers may no longer need a workplace assessment. This means that claims can be processed faster.
Quotes won't be required for items under $2 500. Items between $2 500 and $5 000 will require one quote. Items over $5 000 will require three quotes.
This will make the application process simpler and faster for the applicant.
There is only one application form. The application form can be submitted by the employer or DEWR funded service provider. The form can be submitted by fax, email or post.
Notification of approval can be sent by email with read receipt. This allows faster approval notification.
Disability Open Employment Services (DOES) and Job Network (JN) providers will be able to have their reimbursements processed online using the EA3000 system (JN from 3 July 2006). This means that costs can be reimbursed faster. It will also mean processing arrangements are more responsive.
Also,
A 13 week Outcome Survey has been introduced so that the department can evaluate the quality of assistance being provided. Information from this survey will be used to help decide future policy for the WMS.
For the latest version of the Workplace Modifications Scheme (WMS) Guidelines go to
http://www.jobable.gov.au/openemploymentproviders/WMS.asp
“STEPPING INTO…” WORK EXPERIENCE SERIES
The “Stepping into…” work experience series has been developed by The Australian Employers’ Network on Disability and its member organisations to assist students with disability to enter their chosen profession. Work placements are completed during the mid-year semester break (mid-July to mid-August).
The inaugural program, “Stepping into Law”, held in
“Stepping into Accounting” for Accounting students, in
“Stepping into Employment Advisor” for Psychology and Rehabilitation students, in both Sydney and Brisbane;
and “Stepping into Law” in
The 2005 students chose to participate in Stepping into Law to gain practical work experience. Some students were unsure about what area of law they wanted to go into and the work placement provided an opportunity to get hands-on experience and talk to more people in the profession to help them clarify their preferences. Stepping into Law also demonstrated the legal profession’s willingness and commitment to make a difference.
Many students with a disability, despite their ability, enthusiasm and talent, struggle to find employment after graduation.
Research from the Graduate Destination Survey shows that in 2001, 93% of all graduates obtained employment. This was the highest figure since 1990. However, only 68.3% of graduates with a disability obtained employment.
The “Stepping into…” series offers practical work experience for students with disability who may face significant obstacles in gaining employment.
The program is equally beneficial to the organisations involved, as it enhances disability awareness in the workplace, and encourages an inclusive and productive working environment.
Prior to commencement of the placements, firms have their workplace reviewed for access requirements and also participate in disability awareness sessions. Firms actively participate in the development of the 4-week work experience program and an evaluation is undertaken by the firms and the students on completion of the program.
The “Stepping into…” program offers a model for many organisations to follow within their profession to assist students by providing valuable work experience whilst assisting their organisation to gain increased understanding and appreciation of talented people with disability.
For more information http://www.emad.asn.au/
New RDLO-DCO Resources http://www.adcet.edu.au/rdco
School to Post-School Transition Resources
http://www.adcet.edu.au/rdco/ViewFAQDetail.aspx?itemID=567 (Opens up a Word document with hyperlinks to resources).
Features information about a range of transition related resources currently in use in
Transition: Supporting Students into Post-Secondary Education
http://www.adcet.edu.au/rdco/ViewFAQDetail.aspx?itemID=62
Students with disabilities in transition require everything that other students in transition need including.......
Axistive - Assistive Technology News Portal http://www.axistive.com/
Axistive Assistive Technology News Portal offers free news, articles, product reviews and all product and vendor information of assistive technology devices. Here you will find objective information on how to use and find devices that make the use of, and access to the digital world easier. http://www.adcet.edu.au/rdco/ViewWebItemDetail.aspx?itemid=1131
TECHASSIST - NSW TRIAL - YOUR ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY QUESTIONS ANSWERED!
TechAssist is for people who use assistive computer technology at work, at their educational institution or at home. Specialised help can be hard to find, costly and delayed. TechAssist aims to provide immediate online support and training, eg. technical support when a device or program is not working properly; expert advice about new options, demonstrated to you on your own computer.
The TechAssist pilot project is funded by the Department of Education, Science and Training. It is being implemented by Ability Technology, a not-for-profit organisation with extensive experience in assisting people in using assistive computer technology.
The project aims to give educators, employers, disability services and people with a disability access to a range of professional advice. They will also be gathering data to argue for the establishment of a permanent support service in this area. The "TechAssist" pilot project for NSW will run to mid-2006.
For more information contact Kay Dean, Regional Disability Liaison Officer, Hunter/Central Coast Region, NSW on Tel: (02) 4921 8844 or Mobile: 0438 218848 or email: kay.dean@newcastle.edu.au
http://www.adcet.edu.au/rdco/ViewNewsDetail.aspx?itemid=411
Learning Experiences of Students with a Learning Disability
http://www.adcet.edu.au/Uploads/Documents/disability-project-report.pdf [pdf: 295 kilobytes, opens in new window]
This study aims to increase awareness and understanding of the needs of The University of Nottingham students who have a disability. The project is a qualitative investigation using in-depth interviews, work 'shadowing', and video recordings of a 'day in the life of' a number of selected students. Interview and video data will be used (with student consent) to develop high quality, training materials for a variety of contexts.
‘Academic Accommodations for Students with a Psychiatric Disability’
Students with psychiatric disabilities are entitled to reasonable academic accommodations under the Disability Discrimination Act (1992) and Disability Standards for Education 2005. Providing effective accommodations allows students equal access to academic courses and activities. Their presence also contributes to the diversity of the student population. This resource is concerned with the impact of mental illness on academic pursuits, and the development of strategies to study successfully.
‘The Road Ahead… A
The workbook was produced for people with a disability (which includes a chronic medical condition) who are considering their post-secondary education and training, for example, secondary school students, VTE (Vocational and Technical Education) students, potential New Apprentices and people looking to change their career direction. We hope it will be used by secondary school students in Year 11 or earlier. Teachers and trainers facilitating group work on career planning with people with a disability could also use it. This project was a joint Initiative and can be accessed on the following websites.
http://www.disabilitycentral.com.au
http://www.cdu.edu.au/rdlo/The-Road-Ahead.pdf The Road Ahead: a NT Self-Help Planning Guide [pdf 6.18 mb]
Hot Topic - Inclusive Teaching Strategies -
http://www.adcet.edu.au/rdco/ViewFAQDetail.aspx?itemID=74
Calls for Expressions of Interest and Input:
Profiling people with a disability in employment
TAFE NSW Disability Programs are developing a resource of several DVDs to showcase the full range of opportunities for people with disabilities across the workplace.
This resource will have three aims:
It is proposed that there will be one DVD for each of the following six areas of disability: Hearing, Intellectual, Learning/Neurological, Physical, Psychiatric and Vision.
TAFE Disability Programs need assistance in finding a large number of people with disabilities willing to be take part in this project. They are collecting expressions of interest from around the country.
To request an information/nomination form please email toby.prentice@tafensw.edu.au or phone Toby on 9244 5098 or Mark Kelly on 9244 5101.
Please note that nominating for the project does not guarantee involvement.
Request for Input from Mature Age Students with a Disability
Liz Horrock from the University of South Australia and Leonie Challans the Regional Disability Liaison Officer for Adelaide are putting together a resource that encourages and informs mature aged students with a disability/medical condition of the benefits of studying at university or TAFE. The resource will also support employers, agencies and people with a disability in their mid-years to train or re-train in the higher education or vocational education and training sector with a focus on moving into employment. With the advent of the Welfare to Work program they want this resource to particularly encourage and support people with a disability in their mid-years (40-55+).
They would like to hear from any mature age students (approximately in the 40-55+ but not necessarily restricted to that bracket regarding
What was helpful in your move to study as a mature age student - any publications/group/resources/counselling/resource?
What were the barriers? - funds, housing, scholarships, child care, lack of information about actual study, access to special entry avenues and the like
What would have been very useful but wasn't available?
What information did your employment or other service provider have to assist you?
What did they need but couldn't find?
Anything else that was helpful in deciding to move into further study and then into employment?
Anything that has been a barrier?
Any and all information is welcome
Would you please respond to Leonie Challans leonie.challans@unisa.edu.au or on (08) 8302 1756
Spotlight on Useful Resources:
Technical Aid to the Disabled (TAD)
TAD is a charity organisation that uses volunteers dedicated to the design, construction and provision of aids for people with disabilities. TAD delivers over a thousand custom-designed aids each year, supplies and maintains more than twelve hundred computers and provides information about its services to a wide range of people. TAD makes and supplies custom-designed aids, where commercial equipment is not suitable or available, provides computers on loan to people with disabilities, and provides information on assistive devices for people with disabilities, rehabilitation, health, engineering and other professionals, government, and the community.
For more information about TAD, visit the Web site www.tadnsw.org.au
Low Cost Internet
A low cost Internet service is now available to people on a Disability Services Pension, a DVA Entitlement Pension or an Aged Pension Card thanks to a partnership arrangement negotiated by Technical Aid to the Disabled Australia (TADAust) with wholesales communications provider, ispOne.
At the rate of only $5.50 a month, including no set-up fee, unlimited downloads and flexible contract arrangements, this is the cheapest dialup service on the market today.
TADAust is a national organisation that together with health care professionals assesses the needs of the frail aged and people with disabilities in order to design aids that will improve their independence.
For more information contact: TADACT on 02 6287 4290 or go to http://www.tadaustconnect.org.au/ to register.
Cheap PCs
GreenPC computers and eligibility - GreenPC asks for verification of low-income status via a Health Care Card, Pension Card, or some other form of low-income status. Therefore, students with disabilities from low-income backgrounds certainly qualify and can purchase systems through us by calling us directly on (03) 9486 9355 or visiting our website at www.greenpc.com.au . Our website lists all our available systems together with pricing information. Please feel free to circulate and/or direct any interested people to our website.
Australasian Network of Students with Disabilities (ANSWD)
ANSWD is a student organisation, advocating, promoting, lobbying and campaigning on disability issues. We seek to achieve equality, access, and representation of students with disabilities in the tertiary education sector.
Scholarships:
http://www.cdds.med.usyd.edu.au/dco/Scholarships.htm
Deaf Children
Open to deaf and hearing impaired young people aged 15-21 years living in
Applications close 5pm on Thursday 25 May. Application forms and Information Kits can be found on www.deafchildrenaustralia.org.au , or phone Megan Grant on 03 9539 5300 or email mgrant@deafchildren.org.au .
Freedom Scientific and Quantum Technology has pledged to make life a little easier for eight lucky students who will make the move into tertiary study in 2007!!!
A total of eight scholarships for a free copy of JAWS Professional screen reading program are up for grabs.
Applications for this year's scholarship are now open, so it's time to get behind this worthy initiative.
If you an Australian or
To enter please, tell us in 500 words or less why you need a Freedom Scholarship and how it will assist you in your tertiary studies. Applications must be made in writing by email to info@quantumtechnology.com.au or via mail to Quantum Technology PO Box 390, Rydalmere NSW 2116
Applications must be received by Friday 29 September 2006, and winners will be notified by e-mail and announced in LiveWire. Good Luck!
For further enquiries please call or e-mail your local Quantum Technology office:
Head Office (02) 8844 9888
lkumutat@quantumtechnology.com.au
Southern Office (03) 9545 4100
Media Releases:
Opening up events to everyone
A new guide for event organisers promises to bring down the barriers to participation for people with a disability.
Accessible Events – a Guide for Organisers, developed by Meeting Events Australia (MEA) and the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission, helps organisers to make their events more accessible to the millions of Australians with a disability.
“Events such as conferences, festivals, awards ceremonies, fundraisers and seminars are important parts of all of our lives,” said Human Rights Commissioner and acting Disability Discrimination Commissioner Graeme Innes.
“Yet many organisers are cutting out a large chunk of their potential market by failing to ensure access for people with a disability.”
Speaking at the launch of the new guide at the MEA’s National Conference on the Gold Coast, Commissioner Innes said: “MEA should be congratulated on its initiative. It has shown leadership in the events industry by producing the guide and making it widely available”
“Organising events is big business - with over four million Australians with disabilities, industry cannot afford to miss out on this potential audience,” Mr Innes said.
“It’s important to remember people with disabilities and their families take part in events as presenters, sponsors and audience members.”
The guide covers issues such as: choosing a venue; transport to and from the venue; promoting and registering for events; catering; staff training; the use of technology, and; includes a useful contacts section for people looking for more detail. It also discusses the legal responsibilities event organisers have under anti-discrimination law.
“This guide will help organisers address access difficulties early in the planning of events and help cut down on possible costly problems further down the track,” Commissioner Innes said.
Accessible Events – a Guide for Organisers will be available through the MEA website at www.meetingsevents.com.au and www.humanrights.gov.au/disability_rights/index.html
For the rest of this media release go to
http://www.humanrights.gov.au/media_releases/2006/21_06.htm
NEW APPRENTICESHIPS CENTRES ACCEPT NEW CONTRACTS
20 April 2006
The Minister for Vocational and Technical Education, the Hon Gary Hardgrave MP, today announced that all organisations offered contracts to provide New Apprenticeships Support Services from 1 July 2006 have accepted their offers.
“I am delighted that such a diverse range of organisations have expressed enthusiasm to work with employers and apprentices to provide quality services across
“I am especially pleased that many of the new organisations providing New Apprenticeships Support Services from 1 July 2006 are already established players with proven track records in the employment and training market.”
A total of 30 organisations across
Under the new contracts, New Apprenticeships Centres will be required to provide more streamlined services, including facilitating job placements, therefore offering a genuine one-stop-shop for employers and apprentices.
For the rest of this media release go to
http://www.dest.gov.au/Ministers/Media/Hardgrave/2006/04/h001200406.asp
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Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed in this newsletter are those of the individual authors and not necessarily those of the DCO for Northern, Central and
The information contained in this newsletter is accurate to the best of our knowledge and No responsibility is taken for its accuracy.
The Disability News Archive can be found at http://www.cdds.med.usyd.edu.au/dco/newsletter/
The Regional Disability Liaison Officer and Disability Coordination Officer programmes are funded by the Commonwealth Department of Education, Science and Training
No 7 Vol 2
Compiled by Timothy Hart the DCO for Northern, Central and
To return to the DCO Disability Newsletter Archive Page go to http://www.cdds.med.usyd.edu.au/dco/newsletter or click here