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Disability Education and Employment News:
Vol 2 No 8 - Thursday, 11th May 2006 |
Enhancing post secondary education, training and employment opportunities for people with a disability RDLO & DCOs National Website
http://www.adcet.edu.au/rdco/ |
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 2006 Budget Edition of the Disability Education and Employment News we have a ton of Media Releases - budget announcements and responses as well as the Budget Information from the individual Departments.
There is also information on the new Freedom Scientific/Quantum Technology 2007 WYNN Scholarship for eight students with a learning disability planning to make the move to Tertiary study in 2007. Plus other News articles, Conferences and Workshops, New 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.
2006 Australian Federal Budget
Education News
Employment News
Welfare News
Conferences and Workshops
New Resources
New RDLO/DCO Resources
Calls for Expressions of Interest and Input
Spotlight on Useful Resources
Scholarships
Media Releases
To Subscribe
2006 Australian Federal Budget
http://www.budget.gov.au/2006-07/index.htm
2006 Budget Information by Department
Department of Education, Science and Training
http://www.dest.gov.au/portfolio_department/dest_information/publications_resources/resources/budget_information/2006/at_a_glance.htm
Department of Health and Ageing
http://www.health.gov.au/internet/budget/publishing.nsf/Content/budget2006-healthindex.htm
Department of Families, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs
http://www.facs.gov.au/internet/facsinternet.nsf/aboutfacs/budget/budget2006-budget2006.htm
Department of Employment and Workplace Relations
http://www.dewr.gov.au/dewr/Publications/Budget/2006-07/
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Education News:
Student loans lifted to cover costs
Samantha Maiden
May 10, 2006
STUDENT loans for medicine, veterinary or dentistry degrees will be lifted by 25 per cent to $100,000 - and from $30,000 to $80,000 for other disciplines - after widespread complaints that the Government's FEE-HELP scheme did not cover the cost of degrees.
Universities have also secured $560million in extra funding in the budget, with significant investment to create medical schools in regional areas to tackle the skills shortage.
The funds will also be used to set up a research fund to encourage collaboration between Australia and China.
The new FEE-HELP regime aims to cut the number of students who could be forced to take out commercial loans to complete their studies.
The university loans are designed to help students who fail to get the marks to enter their desired course, and instead choose a full-fee degree that allows entry on slightly lower tertiary entrance scores.
For the rest of the article go to
http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,20867,19084889-12332,00.html
No relief in sight for universities
By Anna Patty Education Editor
May 11, 2006
UNIVERSITIES face a tough year after missing out on extra funding for key areas.
Younger universities say they in particular will struggle because their government funding has failed to keep pace with inflation.
The vice-chancellor of the University of Western Sydney, Professor Janice Reid, said the higher education sector was "perennially disappointed by federal budgets".
"This is most worrying for those younger universities, which rely most on public funding," she said. "Many older universities have large investments and benefactions."
For the rest of the article go to
http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/no-relief-in-sight-for-universities/2006/05/10/1146940613336.html
Unions, industry: skill shortage ignored
By Jewel Topsfield and David Rood
May 11, 2006
DESPITE predictions that Australia will need an extra 100,000 skilled workers by 2010, the budget failed to address the skills crisis, according to critics.
The Opposition, trade unions, and industry groups have slammed the Government for remaining "absolutely silent" on the critical skills shortage.
At a time when Australia was desperate for more tradespeople, the Government has reduced the percentage of the budget spent on skills and training, said Opposition training spokeswoman Jenny Macklin.
She said $13.7 million had been slashed from a program that encouraged rural businesses to take on apprentices.
"Instead of focusing on training Australians first, the Howard Government has imported an extra 270,000 skilled migrants but has already turned 300,000 Australians from TAFE," Ms Macklin said.
For the rest of the article go to
http://www.theage.com.au/news/national/unions-industry-skill-shortage-ignored/2006/05/10/1146940614106.html
Schools take biggest slice of education funding
By Karen Warner, ABC News Online
The Federal Government will be providing nearly $9.3 billion in funding for schools as part of the 2006/07 Budget.
An overall funding boost of $21.7 billion is to be provided for the education, science and training sector.
The higher education sector is to receive an increase in funding of more than $559.6 million over five years from 2005-06.
The Federal Government's FEE-HELP loan limit is set for increases. It will affect full-fee-paying higher education students enrolled in both undergraduate and graduate studies in both public and private education sectors.
"The current limit of $50,950 will be increased to a maximum of $80,000 for all courses except medicine, veterinary science and dentistry, which will attract a maximum FEE-HELP loan of $100,000," Federal Education Minister Julie Bishop said.
"These increases will apply from January 1, 2007 to all eligible students, regardless of when they commenced their studies."
For the rest of the article go to
http://www.abc.net.au/news/newsitems/200605/s1629768.htm
Little to chalk up for education, skills shortage
By Leon Gettler
May 10, 2006
AT A TIME when business is warning that companies can't keep up with demand because of Australia's critical skills shortage, education and training are most notable for their relative absence from this year's federal budget.
While the budget provides for tax cuts of $6.4 billion and nearly quadruples spending for Australia's war on terror to $314.2 million, only $95.5 million has been provided over four years to increase capital funds for universities through the Capital Development Pool.
At the same time, the budget has raised the cap on loans for local fee-paying students.
For the rest of the article go to
http://www.theage.com.au/news/business/little-to-chalk-up-for-education-skills-shortage/2006/05/09/1146940548334.html
Future mortgaged: Beazley
May 10, 2006
THE Government is mortgaging Australia's future by ignoring skills, education, and childcare in the Budget, Opposition Leader Kim Beazley said.
For the rest of the article go to
http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,20867,19088394-1702,00.html
Plans for US-style university funding
By Adam Morton
May 8, 2006
PRIVATE donations to universities would be matched by the Federal Government under a plan to ensure the long-term survival of campuses.
Led by Monash University head Richard Larkins, vice-chancellors are set to lobby the Government to build a philanthropic culture like the model that keeps campuses afloat in the United States and Canada.
It comes as universities argue they are dependent on upfront fees, but held back by limits on how much they can charge. Less than 40 per cent of public university revenue comes from the Government.
Federal Education Minister Julie Bishop said she would consider any plan that increased private investment. "I'm certainly interested in enhancing philanthropy for education in universities," she said. "It's a question of getting the balance right between the public investment, the student contribution as well as the community investment."
For the rest of the article go to
http://www.theage.com.au/news/national/plans-for-usstyle-university-funding/2006/05/07/1146940411331.html
National test may kill HSC
By Anna Patty Education Editor
May 6, 2006
THE Federal Government has taken its first step towards a national year 12 certificate after it announced it was looking at setting common standards for key subjects.
The Education Minister, Julie Bishop, said yesterday she wanted a single Australian Certificate of Education to replace the nine different certificates awarded across the country, including NSW's HSC.
She said she supported the findings of a new education report that identified glaring inconsistencies in both the courses and the reporting of results in the different certificates.
The report's author, Professor Geoff Masters, of the Australian Council for Educational Research, said the "existing arrangements for year 12 certificates are a bit of a dog's breakfast … There is no guarantee at present. We don't know what students are learning in some places."
Ms Bishop said she would identify the common "curriculum essentials" for English, Australian History, Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry. "I want to see greater consistency and comparability across the states."
For the rest of the article go to
http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/national-test-may-kill-hsc/2006/05/05/1146335930356.html
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Employment News:
Unemployment on the rise
May 11, 2006 - 11:50AM
Australia's unemployment rate rose 0.1 percentage points to 5.1 per cent in April, new figures show.
The Australian Bureau of Statistics http://www.abs.gov.au/AUSSTATS/abs@.nsf/mf/6202.0?OpenDocument said total employment fell 3,200 to 10.08 million people.
Full time employment rose 22,700 to 7.2 million, while part time jobs dropped 25,900 to 2.9 million.
Total unemployment rose 10,000 to 542,100.
For the rest of the article go to
http://www.theage.com.au/news/business/unemployment-on-the-rise/2006/05/11/1146940653951.html
Jobs growth 'to moderate'
By Tim Smith
May 09, 2006
JOBS growth is tipped to moderate over 2006/07 as the labour market responds to weaker gross domestic product (GDP) growth in the near term.
Employment is tipped to grow by 1 per cent in 2006/07, in line with the forecast in the mid-year economic and fiscal outlook and below an expected 2-per-cent growth rate in 2005/06.
"Employment growth is expected to moderate to one per cent in 2006/07, in line with the lagged effects of slower GDP growth in 2004/05 and 2005/06," the Budget papers said.
For the rest of the article go to
http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,20867,19082769-31037,00.html
Business lobby urges training reform
A study commissioned by the Australian Industry Group (Ai Group) has identified the building of skills as a key to developing international competitiveness.
Ai Group chief executive Heather Ridout says the study has identified severe skills shortages, highlighting the need to accelerate reform of Australia's training system.
Ms Ridout says there is a growing gap between what business and industry needs and what the work force is being trained to do.
"Eighty-five per cent of jobs in Australia now require a VET [Vocational Education and Training] or a university qualification but only 50 per cent of the population have one," she said.
For the rest of the article go to
http://www.abc.net.au/news/newsitems/200605/s1632128.htm
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Welfare News:
Welfare relief not enough
Labor, Family First blast for `pot of gold' for rich
Thursday, 11 May 2006
CANBERRA - Welfare organisations, the Opposition and the Family First party have criticised the Budget as a pot of gold for the rich that ignores Australians on struggle street.
While the Government's latest round of tax cuts have been applauded widely, the lack of relief for welfare recipients and low-income earners has drawn heavy criticism from the Labor Party and welfare groups.
The Government's failure to entice mothers back to work and the Budget's lack of attention to Australia's skills shortage also has been blasted.
The president of the National Welfare Rights Network, Michael Raper, said although the Budget was a big improvement on last year's effort, the one-off carers bonus was a con and the boost to Centrelink was overdue and insufficient.
For the rest of the article go to
http://www.examiner.com.au/story.asp?id=342697
Cheats to get 'three strikes'
By Misha Schubert
May 10, 2006
AN EXTRA 1000 people will be prosecuted for welfare fraud each year and another 2100 face a cut in their benefits, in a renewed crackdown on welfare cheats.
Up to 20,000 welfare recipients are tipped to fall foul of the new "three strikes and out" welfare-to-work rules every year, triggering an eight-week suspension of their payments.
About a quarter of them — including parents or the mentally ill — would have their finances micro-managed by welfare agencies on Centrelink contracts during the suspension.
In another push to stamp out welfare fraud, Workplace Minister Kevin Andrews suggested more could be done. "The majority of welfare recipients do the right thing," he said.
"However, the Government also has a responsibility to taxpayers to ensure that individuals do not claim payments or levels of assistance to which they are not entitled."
For the rest of the article go to
http://www.theage.com.au/news/budget2006/cheats-to-get-three-strikes/2006/05/09/1146940548438.html
Services preferred over tax cuts: poll
May 09, 2006
THE community wants any Budget surplus spent on health and education rather than tax cuts, a new poll shows.
Treasurer Peter Costello is expected to unveil a number of family-friendly initiatives in tonight's Budget, as well as relief for ordinary taxpayers.
He is expected to have at least $15 billion in surplus funds to play with, giving him the leeway to spend some now while putting away enough for the Government to be generous ahead of an election next year.
The Australian Education Union (AEU) said the key issue for the electorate is adequate spending on health and education.
For the rest of the article go to
http://dailytelegraph.news.com.au/story/0,20281,19074768-5001028,00.html
Poverty is not an item in a press release
By Tony Nicholson
May 8, 2006
On this page last week (3/5) The Age's political editor, Michelle Grattan, wrote in support of a call by Family and Community Services Minister Mal Brough for a portion of welfare payments to be deducted from the income of neglectful parents and spent directly on food and other essential items for their children.
In doing so, she made an implied criticism of welfare providers as choosing to ignore the plight of neglected children in a push for expanded help for low-income families. And she parroted a confected argument the enemies of decent welfare provision always push: that welfare providers are part of the problem. This betrays the extent to which members of the Canberra press gallery are cut off from the reality of poverty.
For the rest of the article go to
http://www.theage.com.au/news/opinion/poverty-is-not-an-item-in-a-press-release/2006/05/07/1146940404932.html?page=fullpage#contentSwap1
Mike Steketee: Tax rates make jobs too costly
Cuts to benefits are a disincentive to work
May 04, 2006
PETER Costello's tax report has served its purpose, helping him defend his position as a Treasurer with deep pockets but short arms. But apart from supporting his argument that this is a low taxing country by the standard of the developed world, it contained a few inconvenient facts.
It pointed out that the combined effect of income taxes and the withdrawal of government payments as incomes rose often imposed a higher burden in Australia than in other Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development countries with which we like to compare ourselves. A single parent on two-thirds of the average wage and with two children loses 68 per cent of earnings when taking up a job, the third highest penalty of 30 OECD countries. A single income married couple earning the average wage with two children loses 54 per cent of extra income. The penalty is also high for unemployed receiving the Newstart benefit, which is withdrawn at 60c in the dollar.
For the rest of the article go to
http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,20867,19015778-7583,00.html
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Conferences and Workshops:
International Conferences
USA - National employment conference seeks presenters
Summer will arrive before we know it... and this year, it brings the national APSE conference, "Employment for All-- Start a Revolution," to Boston from June 28-30. Co-hosts Massachusetts APSE and ICI are excited to invite proposals for presentations.
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 San Diego (July 18-22, 2006)
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
Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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
Round Table on Information Access for People with Print Disabilities Inc.
2006 National Conference, Brisbane, Queensland, 20th to 23rd May 2006
Realizing the Vision for Accessible Information: The Way Forward
Venue: Pacific International, 570 Queen Street, Brisbane, Queensland
The aim of Round Table is to facilitate and influence the production and use of quality alternative formats for people with print disabilities. The Round Table Conference 2006 will highlight and celebrate achievements to date and pave the way for the future to ensure the momentum is maintained in a changing and innovative environment.
A full conference programme and registration pack is now available on the Round Table Web site at http://e-bility.com/roundtable
All enquiries should be directed to:
Tammy Axelsen, Administrative Assistant
PO Box 229, North Hobart 7002
Ph: 0417 101 418
Email: roundtableadmn@bigpond.com
Spectronics Assisted Technology Winter School
Inclusive Learning Technologies® Winter School from 23rd to 25th May 2006
Surfers Paradise, Queensland
The program can be found at http://www.spectronicsinoz.com/winterschool/
ACROD's Inaugural National Conference on Social Participation
30 - 31 May 2006 - Star City, Sydney
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 Australia's (BIA): Inaugural National Conference 2006
Brain Injury Australia's (BIA) will be hosting its inaugural National Conference in Gold Coast Queensland 31 May - 2 June 2006. The conference theme of the of 'Insights and Solutions' will offer the opportunity to increase understanding of the problems faced by individuals living with brain injury, to strengthen partnerships, and to increase awareness of services, programs and new approaches in brain injury research.
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
Melbourne, September 24-27, 2006.
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 Australia?
Are you wanting to be part of a group exploring how we in Australia can......do it better! - Mark this working forum in your diary.
September 24 - 27, 2006
Rydges Hotel, Exhibition St, Melbourne
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 University of Edinburgh is the keynote speaker. Check out the website and book in early as participation will be limited to 200 registrants. This interactive forum will address the issues around learning disabilities as it affects students in the latter years of their secondary schooling, their transition into and experiences within the postsecondary education sector and then in the workplace.
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:
- Increasing understanding of the human impact of having a learning disability
- Psychometric assessment issues
- Issues in the education sectors including
- Curriculum, teaching strategies, support
- Access to information
- Assistive technology solutions, and
- Preparation for and transition into employment
3rd International Forum On Disability Management
Brisbane, Queensland, Australia - 8 to 11 October 2006
You can view the website at http://www.ifdm.com.au/
Australian Rehabilitation & Assistive Technology Association National Conference 2006
Fremantle, Western Australia from the 17 -20 October 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 (Sydney Masonic Centre) 66 Goulburn Street Sydney 2000
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 Hobart, Tasmania to attend “Toward 2020” the Pathways 8 National Conference. Hosted by The University of Tasmania, the Conference will be held at Wrest Point Convention Centre from 28th November to 1st December 2006.
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.
Autism Spectrum Disorders
When & Where
Royal Pines Resort - Gold Coast - 14th to 16th March 2007
The website can be found at
http://www.astmanagement.com.au/autism7/Details.htm
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, 501 Bourke Street, Melbourne
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, 489 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne
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 • University of Technology, Sydney, City Campus, Broadway
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, University of Technology, Sydney, City Campus
Topic: Welfare to Work.
Further information will be posted closer to the date.
http://www.anu.edu.au/disabilities/DEAN/news/
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New Resources:
Choosing VET: Evaluation of Career Development Services
The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of the range of careers development services available to and utilised by young people, up to 24 years, at the transition point of post-compulsory schooling and in the early years of their careers, with a particular focus on outcomes relating to VET. It will evaluate the effectiveness of these services a) in relation to a career development model; b) from the viewpoint of these young people and key influencers, especially parents; c) from a comparison of data relating to careers advice and destinations, where this is available.
More information available at: www.ncver.edu.au/workinprogress/projects/10326.html
INNER WEST COMMONWEALTH CARELINK and CARER RESPITE CENTRE
Commonwealth Carelink Centres, freecall 1800 052 222, will link you to community services in your area, or anywhere in Australia. Call us to find out about the range of services and respite programs which can support you in your own home. We understand the importance of providing information which meets your needs; is confidential, efficient and up-to-date.
Commonwealth Carer Respite Centres, freecall 1800 059 059, can help carers to arrange temporary relief of their caring responsibilities during an emergency.
Or go to http://www.commcarelink.health.gov.au
Carers may be caring for older people or people with a disability who may be parents or siblings, other family members, friends and neighbours. Respite gives the carer a break from their caring responsibilities especially in the following situations.
Emergencies: 24 hours support. Call 1800 059 059.
Short Term Crisis Recovery Respite
Young Carers at Risk: when caring interferes with your primary or secondary education.
Support to Ageing Carers: consideration for Carers over 65 years of age who care for a younger person (0-65) with a disability.
Vacation Care: Extra support for parents caring for a child with a disability during the school holidays.
Support with locating and arranging Residential Respite:
Care may be provided in the home, as an outing, in a centre based group environment or in a residential facility.
A freecall to 1800 059 059, will link you to your local Carer Respite Centre in your area, or anywhere in Australia. To reach us directly or from a mobile phone please dial (02) 9799 6440. (Normal call charges will apply).
A USA Tool Kit on Teaching and Assessing Students With Disabilities
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 Australia (WWDA)
Women With Disabilities Australia (WWDA) have just released a new online Referral Directory to help find information about services and organisations across Australia. The directory contains an extensive amount of information and links to a broad range of services. WWDA is a national voice for the needs and rights of women with disabilities and a national force to improve the lives and life chances of women with disabilities. For a direct link to the Directory http://www.wwda.org.au/portmain.htm
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
http://www.najobpathways.com.au/help_11.cfm?cfid=195688&cftoken=1bda896-d48e637f-c754-4ff9-91e0-264024d82484
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?
http://www.welfarerights.org.au/wrtraining/what%20happens%20if%20i%20am%20receiving%20a%20payment%20now.htm
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.
http://www.adcet.edu.au/cats
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
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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 Australia. The majority of the resources listed here have been developed or are used by members of the national network of Regional Disability Liaison Officers and Disability Coordination Officers throughout Australia.
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.
http://www.cdu.edu.au/rdlo
‘The Road Ahead… A Northern Territory self-help planning guide to post-secondary education, employment and training for people with a disability and chronic medical conditions’
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.cdu.edu.au/rdlo
http://www.disabilitycentral.com.au
http://www.hstac.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]
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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:
- to assist in career planning
- to increase employer awareness and expectations
- to alleviate misconceptions.
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.
Stop Press
The project is still short of people with a neurological disability, especially ABI.
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.
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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.
http://www.answd.com/
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Scholarships:
http://www.cdds.med.usyd.edu.au/dco/Scholarships.htm
Deaf Children Australia Youth Grants 2006
Open to deaf and hearing impaired young people aged 15-21 years living in Australia, the Grants aim to financially support projects in personal development, deaf culture and community, leadership and education so these young people can achieve their dreams. Past projects funded as part of the Youth Grants included photography, art, outdoor education and information technology classes and courses; assistance with participation in sporting competitions, personal development and Leadership camps. Since 2000, Deaf Children Australia has provided approximately $140,000 to 181 young deaf and hearing impaired youths.
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/Quantum Technology 2007 WYNN Scholarship
Freedom Scientific and Quantum Technology have pledged to make life a little easier for eight lucky students who are planning to make the move into tertiary study in 2007!!!
Quantum Technology are excited to announce the inaugural WYNN (What you Need Now) Scholarship, which is intended to assist students who have been assessed as having a learning disability.
If you are an Australian or New Zealand citizen and have been assessed as having a learning disability and are planning on entering tertiary studies in 2007 you are eligible to apply.
To enter just tell us in 500 words or less how the WYNN program will assist you with your studies. Applications must include a name for reference of an educator or person involved in Learning Disability, and demonstrate an understanding of how WYNN can help improve educational outcomes.
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 Australia, and be received by Friday 11 August 2006.
The eight lucky winners will be announced at the "Doing it Better" - Learning Disabilities in Education and Employment Forum” which will be held in Melbourne, September 24-27, 2006.
To assist with your application you may request a WYNN demo CD to evaluate. For further enquiries please call or e-mail Quantum Technology:
Contact: Bronwyn Davies
Head Office (02) 8844 9888
International + 61 2 8844 9888
Melbourne Office: (03) 9545 4100
Queensland Office: (07) 3395 5776
info@quantumtechnology.com.au
www.quantumtechnology.com.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 New Zealand citizen who is blind or vision impaired and are planning on entering tertiary studies in 2007 you are eligible to apply.
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 Australia.
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
vic@quantumtechnology.com.au
Queensland Office (07) 3393 5776
qld@quantumtechnology.com.au
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Budget Media Releases:
The Hon Julie Bishop MP
Minister for Education, Science and Training
09 May, 2006
http://www.dest.gov.au/ministers/bishop/budget06/default.htm
Growing our universities
The 2006-07 Budget provides more than $559.6 million in new funding, primarily for capital developments in our universities, in addition to the $11 billion increase in funding over 10 years already provided through the Our Universities: Backing Australia’s Future package.
For the rest of this media release go to
http://www.dest.gov.au/ministers/bishop/budget06/bud1806.htm
Education, science and training –– investing in our young people
The Education, Science and Training portfolio will receive funding of $21.7 billion from the Government to support a range of initiatives that will help secure Australia’s future economic strength and social wellbeing by investing in our people and our infrastructure.
For the rest of this media release go to
http://www.dest.gov.au/ministers/bishop/budget06/bud0106.htm
COAG Mental Health - Helping young people stay in education
Young Australians who are living with a mental illness such as depression will now have access to more support to sustain them in the education sector through enhancement of the Youth Pathways programme, as part of the 2006-07 Budget. This measure forms part of the Australian Government's contribution to the COAG mental health initiative announced on 5 April 2006.
For the rest of this media release go to
http://www.dest.gov.au/ministers/bishop/budget06/bud0906.htm
Students with Disabilities – Investigation of Flexible Funding
A major new initiative to investigate flexible funding arrangements for the schooling of students with disabilities was announced today by the Minister for Education, Science and Training, the Hon Julie Bishop MP.
The Government has committed $5.8 million in 2006-07 and 2007-08 to look at ways of improving the learning outcomes of students with disabilities through improving the portability of their funding and support for parental choice.
The initiative will commission research and analysis of Australian and international funding arrangements, including voucher funding, to support greater flexibility and identify key factors that influence school choice for parents, both in government and non-government schools. In a further stage, the initiative will pilot models that maximise portability of funding and will develop a national approach.
"The Australian Government is keen to support these students, their families and schools, with a funding system which achieves maximum benefit for students with disabilities, supports the capacity of schools to deliver quality programmes and gives parents greater choice in selecting the school that best meets their child’s need," Minister Bishop said.
For the rest of this media release go to
http://www.dest.gov.au/ministers/bishop/budget06/bud0806.htm
Help for children struggling with reading skills
School children struggling with their reading skills will be able to access extra tuition following the Budget announcement of funding for a Reading Assistance Voucher programme.
The programme will support parents of Year 3 students who have not met the 2006 national minimum reading benchmark by providing $700 worth of reading tuition and support. Individual one-on-one tuition will be arranged by working with schools in partnership with parents and the programme will operate during 2007.
For the rest of this media release go to
http://www.dest.gov.au/ministers/bishop/budget06/bud0606.htm
The Hon Gary Hardgrave MP
Minister for Vocational and Technical Education
http://www.dest.gov.au/ministers/hardgrave/budget06/default.htm
Investing In Australia Through Vocational And Technical Education
The 2006-07 Budget introduces funding for a range of collaborative vocational and technical education measures to build a better future for all Australians and continues the significant investment already made to improve further our nation’s strong and world-renowned Vocational and Technical Education (VTE) sector.
The 2006-07 Budget provides funding of $181.6 million for a range of collaborative VTE initiatives to build a better future for all Australians and provide more choice for young people.
For the rest of this media release go to
http://www.dest.gov.au/ministers/hardgrave/budget06/bud2406.htm
Coag Skills – Australian Government Leads National Approach To Training
The Minister for Vocational and Technical Education, the Hon Gary Hardgrave MP, today announced Australian Government funding of $53.5 million over four years to lead a series of national reforms in vocational and technical education.
Mr Hardgrave said the reforms, agreed by the Prime Minister, Premiers and Chief Ministers through the Council of Australian Governments (COAG), would address inherent barriers to more people taking up training opportunities and their transition into employment.
For the rest of this media release go to
http://www.dest.gov.au/ministers/hardgrave/budget06/bud2506.htm
Enhancements To New Apprenticeships Support Services
New Apprentices and their employers will receive enhanced support services following the announcement in the 2006-07 Budget of an additional $106.7 million funding over four years for New Apprenticeships Centres.
The Minister for Vocational and Technical Education, the Hon Gary Hardgrave MP, said the additional funding would increase the Australian Government allocation to the centres to $692.1 million over four years from 1 July 2006.
For the rest of this media release go to
http://www.dest.gov.au/ministers/hardgrave/budget06/bud2606.htm
More Incentives For Employers Of New Apprentices
The Minister for Vocational and Technical Education, the Hon Gary Hardgrave MP, announced that the Budget would provide funding of $10.6 million over four years to extend incentives for employers of higher level New Apprentices in key growth areas.
Under this initiative, employers of New Apprentices in select Diploma and Advanced Diploma New Apprenticeships will be eligible for a payment of $4,000 per New Apprentice from 1 July 2006.
For the rest of this media release go to
http://www.dest.gov.au/ministers/hardgrave/budget06/bud2706.htm
Additional Funding For The National Skills Shortages Strategy In 2005-06
The Minister for Vocational and Technical Education, the Hon Gary Hardgrave MP, today announced an extra $6 million to fund the National Skills Shortages Strategy in 2005-06.
"The National Skills Shortages Strategy is playing a vital role in addressing critical skills needs, particularly in traditional trades. Through the strategy, the Australian Government is partnering with key industry groups to develop solutions and models to address current and future industry skills demands," said Mr Hardgrave.
For the rest of this media release go to
http://www.dest.gov.au/ministers/hardgrave/budget06/bud2906.htm
Hon Dr Sharman Stone MP
Minister for Workforce Participation
09 May, 2006
Increasing Employment Opportunities For People With Disabilities
The Australian Government has announced an additional $7.9 million in funding in the 2006-07 Budget to provide disabled people with more help to increase their employment opportunities and choices.
Minister for Workforce Participation Dr Sharman Stone today announced a $2.9 million funding boost over four years for the Supported Wage System (SWS). This will allow an estimated 1400 additional workers with disabilities to access independent wage assessments so they can ensure they are receiving a fair day’s pay for their work.
For the rest of this media release go to
http://mediacentre.dewr.gov.au/mediacentre/MinisterStone/Releases/IncreasingEmploymentOpportunitiesForPeopleWithDisabilities.htm
COAG Mental Health - An Additional 40 Million Dollars To Help People With Mental Illness Enter And Remain In Employment
The Minister for Workforce Participation, Dr Sharman Stone, today announced that $40 million would be spent over five years to make it easier for people with mental illness to enter and remain in employment.
Dr Stone said this measure forms part of the Australian Government’s contribution to the Council of Australian Governments’ (COAG) mental health package, as announced on 5 April 2006.
"Sustainable employment in real jobs is critical to help break down social isolation to improve people’s well-being and self-esteem," Dr Stone said.
For the rest of this media release go to
http://mediacentre.dewr.gov.au/mediacentre/MinisterStone/Releases/COAGMentalHealthAnAdditional40MillionDollarsToHelpPeopleWithMentalIllnessEnterAndRemainInEmployment.htm
70,000 Disadvantaged Job Seekers To Benefit From Insurance For Work Experience Trials
The Australian Government will commit $2.7 million to pay the insurance cost of job seekers undertaking work experience, the Minister for Workforce Participation Dr Sharman Stone announced today.
As part of the 2006–07 Budget, 70,000 job seekers will have their accident and personal liability insurance paid for by the Federal Government (over four years). The coverage will be available from 1 January 2007.
"It has been demonstrated that unpaid work experience can often lead to a full or part time job, but an outstanding issue has been the cost of accident and personal liability insurance.
"This initiative for short-term insurance cover will help job seekers who have been unemployed for 12 months or more, Indigenous Australians, people with a disability, and some parents on income support through better access to work experience. It will also help employers who are experiencing workforce shortages as a result of the ageing population, have access to a greater pool of potential employees," Dr Stone said.
For the rest of this media release go to
http://mediacentre.dewr.gov.au/mediacentre/MinisterStone/Releases/70000DisadvantagedJobSeekersToBenefitFromInsuranceForWorkExperienceTrials.htm
Budget leaves universities and students in debt
Senator Nettle, 10th May 2006
Education is the big loser in this year's budget with the government delivering a blue print for decline in the university sector.
For the rest of this media release go to
http://greens.org.au/mediacentre/mediareleases/senatorbrown/090506a
Higher education Budget fails students
Senator Natasha Stott Despoja
Democrats Senator for South Australia
Australian Democrats spokesperson for Higher Education
The Government's Budget fails to provide long term investment in higher education and research, according to the Australian Democrats.
"The Voluntary Student Unionism transition fund has not been extended to critical student services such as advocacy and health," Australian Democrats' Higher Education Spokesperson, Senator Natasha Stott Despoja said.
For the rest of this media release go to
http://www.democrats.org.au/news/index.htm?press_id=5155&display=1
Budget fails on education, training and unemployed
Senator Lyn Allison
Parliamentary Leader and Democrats Senator for Victoria
Australian Democrats spokesperson for Education & Training
The Government's neglect of Australia's skills shortage in the Budget was disgraceful and will lead to falling productivity, said Leader of the Australian Democrats Senator Lyn Allison.
"Despite the Treasurer's protestations that Australia has full employment there are still 1.5 million Australians without jobs," Senator Allison said.
For the rest of this media release go to
http://www.democrats.org.au/news/index.htm?press_id=5158&display=1
Howard Government Gives Up On Skills
Jenny Macklin
The Howard Government's failure to invest in training in the 2006 Budget will put upward pressure on interest rates.
For the rest of this media release go to
http://www.alp.org.au/media/0506/msedusartrg110.php
Government Slashes Regional & Rural Apprentices Program
Jenny Macklin
The Howard Government's 2006 Budget has slashed $13.7 million from an incentive program to encourage rural and regional businesses to take on apprentices.
For the rest of this media release go to
http://www.alp.org.au/media/0506/msedusartrg100.php
Budget Fails Workforce Participation Challenges
Penny Wong
This Budget copies some Labor initiatives but leaves most workforce participation problems unaddressed, Shadow Employment Minister Penny Wong said today.
For the rest of this media release go to
http://www.alp.org.au/media/0506/msewp101.php
Budget Slugs Students With Massive Debts
Jenny Macklin
The Howard Government has increased the limit on Fee-HELP loans, exposing Australian university students to debts of up to $100,000.
For the rest of this media release go to
http://www.alp.org.au/media/0506/msedusartrg101.php
ACOSS Response to Federal Budget 2006
ACOSS President Lin Hatfield Dodds said:
“Given the largesse of this Budget, the Government had a golden opportunity to spend more to make sure Australians who are really struggling have a fair go.”
For the rest of this media release go to
http://www.acoss.org.au/News.aspx?displayID=99&articleID=605
Budget lacks long-term focus, boosts inequality - Vinnies
For the rest of this media release go to
http://www.vinnies.org.au/index.cfm?state=national§ion=pubs&id=915
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To Subscribe:
If you wish to have the Disability Education and Employment News e-mail to you please e-mail me at thart@med.usyd.edu.au with “Subscribe Disability Education and Employment News” in the subject line.
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 Southern Sydney or The Centre for Developmental Disability Studies or The Australian Government Department of Education, Science and Training.
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 8 Vol 2
Compiled by Timothy Hart the 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