ACT Disability Aged and Carer Advocacy Service in Weston | Community organisation

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ACT Disability Aged and Carer Advocacy Service

Locality: Weston

Phone: +61 2 6242 5060

Address: Unit 14 Weston Community Hub, Gritten St 2611 Weston, ACT, Australia

Website: http://www.adacas.org.au/

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25.01.2022 10th October 2019 We are at the Mental Health Month expo in Garema Place! Come check us out!

25.01.2022 18 December 2018 WINNER OF 2018 ACT CHIEF MINISTER'S INCLUSION AWARD We are very pleased to announce our very own Helen, Manager of SDM Projects, won the 2018 ACT Chief Minister's Inclusion Award for Excellence in Support Work. We are very proud of you Helen! Congratulations to Helen as well as to the SDM staff, and all ADACAS staff members who have supported Helen to take a lead in supported decision making activities.... Helen's speech: It’s an extraordinary privilege to have the generosity of learnings that the people I work with share with me and everyone in the community. I feel incredibly lucky to have been included in the community all my life and am really passionate about making sure that this is the experience for everyone. Thank you very much

25.01.2022 21st July 2020 Vale Sue Salthouse ADACAS was incredibly saddened to hear of the death of Sue Salthouse. ... Sue was a wonderful person: kind, thoughtful and empathic. She was a passionate advocate for human rights, for women with disabilities and the disability communities in Canberra, across Australia and internationally. She was a wise mentor and valued leader. Her death is a devastating loss. Our condolences to Sue’s family, her friends and colleagues. We will miss you so very much, our friend: Vale.

25.01.2022 26th May 2020 National Reconciliation Week 2020: 27 May 3 June #inthistogether ADACAS would like to acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the Country on which we work and live (the Ngunnawal, Djiringanj, Walbunja, Monaro, Brinja and the Thaua) and to extend our respects to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples across Australia for their continuing resilience and open hearts in the face of historic and present day human rights violations against them. ... ADACAS would also like to acknowledge, and give thanks for the stories, traditions and living cultures of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples of this land that enrich all Australians and recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and culture. We pay our respects to all Elders past, present and emerging. In the spirit of reconciliation week and for the days to follow ADACAS extends our gratitude to all First Nations Peoples of this Country; we commit to upholding the human rights of our First Nations Peoples and in that spirit acknowledge that we live and work on stolen lands and that sovereignty was never ceded. Reconciliation isn’t a single moment or place in time. It’s lots of small, consistent steps, some big strides, and sometimes unfortunate backwards steps Karen Mundine Chief Executive Officer, Reconciliation Australia https://www.reconciliation.org.au/what-is-reconciliation/ There can be no reconciliation without social justice. Pat Dodson

25.01.2022 LATEST ACTCOSS JOURNAL OUT NOW WITH AN INTERVIEW WITH ADACAS CEO, MICHAEL BLEASDALE 17th December 2019 The latest ACTCOSS (ACT Council Of Social Services inc) journal is now out with the theme ‘2020 is on the horizon - is it the view we imagined?'.... Included is an article called "The view from here... The world we imagined and the NDIS in 2020 - Interview with Michael Bleasdale, ADACAS" The Journal is available here: https://www.actcoss.org.au//update-issue-90-summer-2019-20

24.01.2022 Yesterday was International Older Person's Day. The world's population is ageing and by 2050 over 20% of the world's population will be 60 or older. "With this in mind, enhanced attention to the particular needs and challenges faced by many older people is clearly required. Just as important, however, is the essential contribution the majority of older men and women can continue to make to the functioning of society if adequate guarantees are in place. Human rights lie at the core of all efforts in this regard. - United Nations ADACAS continues to focus on how we can uphold and promote the human rights of our older clients.

24.01.2022 We want to hear from YOU about your experience of education on contraception and consent for women, girls, non-binary and feminine identifying people with disabilities. Allies and professionals are also encouraged to complete a survey on their experiences.

24.01.2022 Tuesday 13th October 2020 ADACAS Advocacy invites you to a Forum on Enabling Consumer Dignity and Choice - Supported Decision Making in the Aged Care Sector DATE 20th October 2020... TIME 4:00pm to 6:00pm How can Supported Decision Making be used to ensure every individual participates in choices that affect their care and daily life while respecting their culture, diversity, values and beliefs and their rights to autonomy, independence and risk-taking? The forum will be led by an expert panel of individuals, advocates, service providers and legislators from the Aged Care Sector. The forum will comply with Covid-19 restrictions and the number of people attending in person at CIT Function Centre will be limited to 70 people. However, the forum will also be held online through Zoom. RSVP on Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/enabling-consumer-dignity-a Please let us know if you have any support or dietary requirements to facilitate your attendance. If you have any questions, please contact the Supported Decision Making Team by email at [email protected] or call (02) 6242 5060

23.01.2022 19 Feb 2020 On Monday, we held an information session about the National Redress Scheme. Thank you to everyone who came. We hope it helped. ... If you missed out, we are going to hold another soon. Or you can phone ADACAS and we can talk to you about the Scheme, at a time and place that feels safe for you. Phone (02) 6242 5060 http://adacas.org.au/national-redress-scheme/

23.01.2022 Monday 29th June 2020 ADACAS can help with applications to the National Redress Scheme. If you are not sure about whether your institution is participating, or if it is eligible for the Scheme, please call us for a free, confidential chat. https://www.abc.net.au//scott-morrison-tells-inst/12401798

23.01.2022 26th August 2020 Michael Bleasdale, ADACAS CEO "We at ADACAS support a permanent and adequate raise to Jobseeker and other Centrelink payments to ensure that everyone has enough for food, housing and other necessities of life." ... Reduce poverty and inequality: #RaisetheRatefor Good #coverthebasics #auspol

22.01.2022 Australia’s largest Assistive Technology expo to open in Canberra for very first time! 26th July 2019 For the very first time in its 20-year history, Australia’s largest assistive technology and disability event, the ATSA Independent Living Expo, will take place in Canberra next month.... Taking place alongside iCREATe Conference on Tuesday 27 August and Wednesday 28 August at the National Convention Centre Canberra, the ATSA Independent Living Expo (AILE) has become the most influential event on the disability calendar when it comes to Assistive Technology (AT). The free to attend expo provides an opportunity for visitors to see the largest display of AT in Australia coupled with a broad range of equipment and services. The show has grown to be a focal point for the industry, attracting not only allied health professionals, occupational therapists and consumers, but also distributors and suppliers. With 50 exhibitors already confirmed for this year’s inaugural Canberra show from global brands to local innovations, the show is sure to deliver when it comes to helping people with disability stay connected. Families, carers and healthcare professionals are making decisions every day. So when it comes to choosing innovative solutions that will impact on the wellbeing and independence for people wanting to stay in their homes, assistive technologies is where it begins. The role of AT is growing. Initially it started off with mobility and lifting devices but now includes anything that offers greater independence to the individual, keeps them safer and also contributes to making the carer’s role easier. Fundamentally, AT help to reduce people’s dependence on others. The ATSA Independent Living Expo provides many opportunities for people to check out the latest in assistive technology from over 50 exhibitors. The show also includes plenty of educational opportunities in its free seminar program, where attendees can hear from over 20 professionals talking all things assistive technology. To find out more about this event, visit www.atsaindependentlivingexpo.com.au

22.01.2022 Disability Royal Commission Begins Today Monday, 16th of September 2019 Today is the first public sitting of the Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability.... The Royal Commission’s Terms of Reference cover what should be done to: prevent, and better protect, people with disability from experiencing violence, abuse, neglect and exploitation achieve best practice in reporting and investigating of, and responding to violence, abuse, neglect and exploitation promote a more inclusive society that supports the independence of people with disability and their right to live free from violence, abuse, neglect and exploitation. The inquiry will cover all forms of violence against, and abuse, neglect and exploitation of, people with disability, in all settings and contexts. What is learnt from the Royal Commission will help to inform Australian governments, institutions and the wider community on how to prevent, and better protect, people with disability in the future. You can view the operations of the Royal Commission in its website: https://disability.royalcommission.gov.au/Pages/default.aspx ADACAS will be very much involved in the Royal Commission over the course of the next three years, and has been contracted to assist people with disability to engage with it. We have today expanded our team of Advocates to enable us to provide the support needed to help people with disability make submissions to the Royal Commission, and have their voices and stories heard . Submissions can be accepted in written format or via video recording. If you or someone you know would like to make a submission and need some support please contact ADACAS on (02) 6242 5060 or email to [email protected] If you or anyone you know needs help: Lifeline 13 11 14 Mens Line 1300 789 978 Kids Helpline 1800 551 800 1800 RESPECT 1800 737 732 National Disability Abuse and Neglect Hotline 1800 880 052 Aboriginal Family Domestic Violence Hotline 1800 019 123

21.01.2022 The incidents of abuse of older people and the complex nature of abuse is underestimated. Abusive relationships in families and cultural influences can both instigate and sustain abuse happening, and also lead to incidents being covered up. ADACAS’ Deputy CEO, Sonia Di Mezza, delved into this difficult area during a panel session "Conceptualising the nature of abuse: Exploring influence and shame in diverse family and support systems" at Rock the Boat, the 2019 National Elder... Abuse Conference in Brisbane. https://neac2019.com.au/ Sonia used her extensive knowledge and experience working with people in the CALD community to cast a light on the complex cultural and linguistic factors that can serve to obscure abuse, but also which can be used to prevent it in the first place. For more, head to a message from our CEO about the conference and view our image gallery. http://adacas.org.au/news/latest-news/

21.01.2022 15th May 2020 Did you know, that as of 24 April 2020, the National Redress Scheme had made over $136.8 million worth of payments to applicants, averaging $81,289? According to the National Redress Scheme, applicants who use a funded Redress Support Service are more likely to get a quicker result, with less trauma to the applicant.... ADACAS can help ACT residents with their applications, even during covid-19. If you would like some support, give us a call on 02 6242 5060, or email [email protected]

21.01.2022 Friday 14th August 2020 ADACAS Priorities for the ACT election ADACAS invites people with disability, people with mental ill health, older people and carers to an online information session. ... Friday 21st August 2020 11am to 12:30pm ADACAS CEO, Michael Bleasdale, will provide information about ADACAS' ACT election 2020 advocacy priorities, and lead discussion about the advocacy topics in focus. To register to attend - please email [email protected], or call 02 6242 5060 with: Your name Your email address Any access requirements and we will email you the Zoom link. We hope to see you there.

21.01.2022 18 October 2019 Supported Decision Making in Healthcare for Young People This forum on the 19th of November 2019 will explore the implications for supported decision making in health care for young people. We will be focussing on the opportunities and challenges for young people aged 14-19 as they build their identity and skills as decision makers.... All are welcome to participate and attend, and refreshments will be provided. Join us for a small group and panel style discussion focussing on supported decision making in the health care sector for young people. What opportunities are their for young people to actively participate in decisions about their health ? What support is available to help them to make decisions and build their identity as decision makers? Please let us know if you have any support requirements to facilitate your attendance. Tickets are available, free, at: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/supported-decision-making-i If you have any questions please contact the Supported Decision Making Team at [email protected] or (02) 6242 5060.

21.01.2022 The ADACAS team wishes you a safe and happy holiday season. Our office will be closed from 2pm Thursday 24 December 2020 and will reopen 9am Monday 4th January 2021.

21.01.2022 ADACAS supports older people in the ACT to access the Royal Commission The ACT Disability, Aged and Carer Advocacy Service (ADACAS) is a member of the Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) and will be at the forefront in bringing their expertise to the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, which commenced last week. The Commission will be taking submissions until the end of June 2019, with an interim report due by 31 October this year, and Commissioners Tracey a...nd Briggs will be expected to hand down their final report by the end of April 2020. The voices and testimonies of older people and their families who have been affected by abuse within the aged care system will be key to the success of the Commission, which aims to not only expose these practices but to make concrete recommendations on how Australia can deliver the services its older citizens expect into the future. ADACAS has over 25 years’ experience assisting older people who are experiencing abuse and neglect, as well as a range of issues regarding service quality, Michael Bleasdale, CEO of ADACAS, said. We are ready to support people who have been affected by abuse across the aged care system, in residential and home care, and who are considering making a statement to the Royal Commission or making an appearance at hearings. Submissions are required to be made via a specific form which is on the Commission’s website, and there is a telephone number people can call if they have difficulty making a submission. For some people making a submission can be very difficult, and not only because of the technology they are required to use to tell their story and get their point across, Mr Bleasdale said. It can also be very confronting, so the Advocates at ADACAS can provide help on how to make these submissions, and support people who may experience distress. The Commission website advises people who are considering making submissions to seek legal advice if they are concerned that the information they provide may be defamatory. The Commission has also made provision for financial assistance for legal representation and associated disbursement costs for people who are called or granted leave to appear as a witness at the Commission and other related activities. It is vital that people who feel compelled to give testimony at the Commission have their rights protected, and are encouraged to give their version of events without fear of retribution, said Ms Sonia Di Mezza, Deputy CEO, who leads ADACAS Aged Care Advocacy and Elder Abuse teams. ADACAS will assist people in the ACT to access whatever legal and other supports they need to make their contribution to the Commission. People seeking assistance from ADACAS should call 02 6242 5060, or email [email protected]. More details regarding Older Persons Advocacy Network, can be found at: https://opan.com.au/.

20.01.2022 Yesterday we welcomed our new CEO Michael Bleasdale. We are very excited to get to know him and to see what he will bring to our service.

19.01.2022 AGED CARE ROYAL COMMISSION HEARINGS COMMENCE IN THE ACT 9th December 2019 The Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety has this morning commenced hearings in Canberra. The particular issue under consideration in a week of hearings is the interface between Australia’s aged care and health care systems.... Those appearing at the hearings are predominantly families of older persons who have experienced poor health treatment whilst in residential aged care, medical and health practitioners, and health administrators. The Commission is looking to not only expose examples of poor practice, but also to identify where good practice has occurred, and to systematize good practice in enabling people living in residential aged care to access good medical treatment and better health outcomes. The hearings can be followed via the Commission’s webcast. https://agedcare.royalcommission.gov.au//witness-list-9-13 https://webstreaming.lawinorder.com.au/acrc ADACAS CEO Michael Bleasdale spoke to ABC News about the issues that ADACAS has seen in the past that point to a significant change in culture being required to better facilitate access to health care for residents of aged care facilities. The full article is available online. https://www.abc.net.au//aged-care-royal-commissio/11777870 The Royal Commission continues until April 2020. Anyone wishing to make submission on any issue of concern are able to do so. If people require assistance they are welcome to contact ADACAS direct at 6242 5060.

19.01.2022 19th November 2020

19.01.2022 6th November 2019 Last week ADACAS held a Showcase on various topics followed by the AGM. Thank you to everyone who came and presented!... Aunty Jannette for her Welcome to Country Dr Kasia Bail from the University of Canberra Kate Gorman of the Health Care Consumers Association Mary Mallet from DANA Sue Salthouse from Didactic Enterprises Amanda Charles the senior director of Office for Disability

18.01.2022 Second anniversary of the National Apology to Victims and Survivors of Institutional Child Sexual Abuse 22nd October 2020 Today, on the second anniversary of the apology to survivors of institutionalized sexual abuse, the Minister Anne Rushton has announced the building of a memorial for survivors. You can see her statement here. ... https://www.facebook.com/AnneRuston/videos/380940483268966 If you would like to have a free, confidential chat to someone about institutional sexual abuse or the Redress Scheme, you can call us on (02) 6242 5050 or email [email protected]

17.01.2022 26th May 2020 Announcement for Sorry Day 2020 National Sorry Day is held on 26 May each year to acknowledge and recognise members of the Stolen Generations....Continue reading

17.01.2022 NEW, SIMPLER, CHARTER OF AGED CARE RIGHTS 7th June 2019 The Australian Government is introducing a new and simpler Charter of Aged Care Rights for aged care consumers (older people receiving Commonwealth supported aged care services) taking effect as of the 1st of July, 2019... The Charter will make it easier for aged care consumers, their families and carers to understand what they can expect from an aged care service provider. The Charter places the consumer at the centre of their care by giving them choice and recognising their right to be treated with respect. To help aged care consumers in ACT, their families, and carers understand the new Charter of Aged Care Rights and how it will empower and protect them, Older Persons Advocacy Network will be delivering a FREE event in conjunction with A.C.T. Disability, Aged and Carer Advocacy Service (ADACAS). A complimentary afternoon tea and refreshments will be included. Friday 14 June 2:00pm 3:30pm (AEST) COTA ACT, Hughes Community Centre, Wisdom Street, Hughes For further information and to register for this event please visit www.opan.com.au/charter

17.01.2022 30 November 2020 The ACT government has also joined the National Redress Scheme. https://youtu.be/WREyK1_eWtg ... If you, or someone you know experienced institutional sexual abuse, ADACAS can support you with information and advice. We can also help you to get free legal advice. Please call ADACAS on 0262425060

16.01.2022 ADACAS SEEKING AN OPERATIONS MANAGER 6th February 2020 Position Summary... Operations Manager Location: Unit 14, 6 Gritten Street, Weston A.C.T. Term: Permanent; Full-Time (38hrs/week) Remuneration: SCHADS Award Level 7 ($92,972 - $96,857) + 9.5% superannuation Reports To: Chief Executive Officer Direct Reports: 4 Team Leaders. About ADACAS The ACT Disability, Aged and Carer Advocacy Service (ADACAS) was established in 1991, and has provided independent and free advocacy for people with disability, people experiencing mental ill-health, older people, and carers ever since. The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) was introduced in 2013 and through this, ADACAS has provided Support Coordination to clients via the NDIS fee-for-service system. ADACAS also advocates for individuals to systemically advocate for their right to self-determination and also to participate about their life via the Supported Decision Making team. This is done through various client interactions and trainings. About the role The Operations Manager is responsible for the oversight and day-to-day running of the Advocacy (Disability), Advocacy (Mental Health), Advocacy (Aged Care), EMR (AAT Appeals), Redress Support and Royal Commissions operations areas of ADACAS. The position is critical to the quality and maintenance of services to clients, and to ensuring that front line staff have access to the supports they require to undertake their duties in the most professional manner possible. The Operations Manager is one of three senior executive managers who work directly with the CEO in the Leadership Team which sets and achieves the strategic aims of ADACAS, ensuring that client service is maintained and enhanced whilst also strengthening the organisation as a whole. The position has four direct reports, Team Leaders of four distinct areas of service delivery who in turn manage a further six front line staff. How to apply Please call ADACAS on (02) 6242 5060 or email adacas.org.au for the candidate information pack, including the full position description and selection criteria. Your application should consist of: a resume; referees [(email and phone contact) minimum of 2], who can verify your claims; and a covering letter explaining why you are interested in this role and in turn statements and examples on how you meet the selection criteria. CLOSE DATE: 11:59PM MONDAY 24th FEBRUARY 2020

16.01.2022 30th January 2020 ADACAS will be hosting a free 1 hour information session next month, providing general information about the National Redress Scheme. The Redress Scheme was created for people who have experienced institutional child sexual abuse. ... Over 1 hour, we will discuss eligibility, options for applying, what to do if an institution is not participating, and how ADACAS can provide practical support to those who may be considering an application. This Free event is open to anyone. You can register your interest via EventBrite to secure a place or by turning up on the day (please be aware that space is limited). https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/adacas-redress-support-nati When : Monday the 17th February 2020 from 11 am to 12 pm Where: ACTCOSS meeting rooms, Weston Community Hub, Gritten street, Weston Please note the content discussed on the day can be distressing to some. If you feel affected after the session and need support you can call these support services Canberra Rape Crisis Centre Ph: 62472525 Victim Support ACT Ph: 1800822272 Knowmore legal advice Ph: 1800 605 762 Blueknot Foundation Ph: 1300 657 380 Lifeline Ph: 131 141

16.01.2022 Great news: the ACT Government has provided ADACAS and Advocacy for Inclusion with some funding for independent advocacy. Thanks to the incredible advocacy of our amazing advocates, this important, human-rights focused work will continue

15.01.2022 NATIONAL REDRESS SCHEME INFORMATION SESSION ADACAS can provide help and support for applications to the National Redress Scheme. The National Redress Scheme has been created for people who experienced sexual abuse as children in institutions like orphanages, foster care, sporting clubs and youth detention. ... If you are considering an application, and would like help, or some more information, you can call us on 62425060, or you can come to our information session on the 17 Feb at the Weston Community Hub at 11am. If you found this post distressing, these support services can help: Canberra Rape Crisis Centre Ph: 62472525 Victim Support ACT Ph: 1800822272 Knowmore legal advice Ph: 1800 605 762 Blueknot Foundation Ph: 1300 657 380 Lifeline Ph: 131 141

14.01.2022 We Rock-ed the Boat with the launch of our Decision Support Toolkit App. This free app provides useful tools and information to support someone to make decisions and build their readiness to make meaningful choices based on their values. Available now on the Google Play Store, coming soon to the App Store. https://play.google.com/store/apps/details

14.01.2022 The ADACAS team wishes you a safe and happy holiday season. Our office will be closed from 2pm Thursday 24 December 2020 and will reopen 9am Monday 4th January 2021.

14.01.2022 Monday 12th October 2020 The second anniversary review of the National Redress Scheme is currently underway. The review intends to help drive practical improvements to the Scheme and will focus on understanding what is working to address the challenges and barriers that remain.... The feedback study is available online until 11.00 pm AEST on 23 October 2020. To have your say visit: www.nationalredress.gov.au/about/second-anniversary-review ADACAS can help people who have submitted an application for redress or who have started to make an application for redress to have their say on whether the process has met their expectations and if not an opportunity to suggest improvements. Email [email protected] or call (02) 6242 5060

13.01.2022 MABO DAY 3rd June 2020 Today is the 28th Anniversary of the High Court decision on the 3rd of June 1992, which overturned the Terra Nullius declaration - the statement that Australia was once land that belonged to no-one. This day commemorates Torres Strait Islander Eddie Koiki Mabo, and his fight to have Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples rights to their land recognised....Continue reading

13.01.2022 3rd February 2020 Media Release: ADACAS welcomes Minister’s reversal of obstructive NDIA transport cost policy. ADACAS has welcomed the announcement today by Minister Stephen Robert that NDIS participants will be able to flexibly use their plan’s core support funding to claim service provider costs associated with transporting participants to and from NDIS funded community-based activities.... The change is due to come into effect on 1 March 2020, and should return the payment of essential transport costs to the control of NDIS participants. This is not a policy initiative, rather it is a reversal of a very poor decision taken by the NDIA at the national level and implemented without due consideration of the extremely negative impact it would have upon participants all over Australia, said Michael Bleasdale, CEO of ADACAS. At the outset of the scheme participants were allowed to access core funding to pay for these costs. The issue of transportation has been poorly handled by the NDIA, and decisions regarding the withholding of funds that are required to enable a participant to travel to and from funded activities have been challenged in the Supreme Court. Mr Bleasdale also pointed out that as a result of the previous decision to deny access to core funds to pay for transport costs, a number of participants have accrued significant levels of debt, which they will struggle to pay off, as they are on very limited incomes. Today’s announcement does not address the issue of the debt that will continue to be owed by participants just because someone in the NDIA thought it would be a good idea to cut off access to core funds for transport payments. Given that today’s announcement restores the status quo, measures need to be put in place to ensure participants aren’t out of pocket. ADACAS is calling upon the Minister to direct the NDIA to retrospectively pay for the transport costs of participants who have incurred transport debts as a result of the previous NDIS policy which has today been reversed.

13.01.2022 Monday 10th August 2020 Did you know, that as of the 26th of June 2020, the National Redress Scheme had made over $220.9 million worth of payments have been made to survivors, averaging $82,002? ADACAS is running an after hours online information session about the National Redress Scheme, and how we can help survivors, in a sensitive, trauma informed way. ... Wednesday, 16th September 2020, 7:30pm to 8:30pm If you would like to talk to us about this information session, or anything else, you can contact us on (02) 6242 5060 To book your free ticket via Eventbrite, please click the link below: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/adacas-national-redress-sch

13.01.2022 9th October 2019 Last week on Tuesday 1st of Octobe , ADACAS hosted a morning tea for International Day of Older Persons, attended by Minister Gordon Ramsay. Auntie Phillips gave a Welcome to Country, with CEO Michael Bleasdale greeting attendees.... Deputy CEO Sonia Di Mezza gave a presentation on 'The Rights of Older Persons and the Prevention of Abuse of Older Persons' Ivette Gonzales and Sarah Sowry introduced our Supported Decision Making toolkits and phone app, demonstrating how they can be used to mitigate the risk of abuse of Older Persons.

12.01.2022 30 November 2020 The ACT government has also joined the National Redress Scheme. https://youtu.be/SqG2YPtygtM ... If you, or someone you know experienced institutional sexual abuse, ADACAS can support you with culturally sensitive information and advice. We can also help you to get free legal advice. Please call ADACAS on 0262425060

12.01.2022 Sonia Di Mezza presenting at AGAC on Thursday the 14th of March, 2019 - Elder abuse as perceived from a CALD perspective

12.01.2022 ADACAS would like to hear from people who require support to make their healthcare decisions. We would like to know about people’s experience exercising their right to decide about healthcare. This could include (but is not limited to) people with intellectual impairment, dementia, acquired brain injury or people experiencing mental ill health. We would also like to know about the needs and experiences of carers and health professionals in supporting healthcare decisions.... We want to ensure the availability of support for people so they are able to actively participate when they make a healthcare decision. If you require support to make decisions please click the following link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/rka-decisionmakers If you are a carer or family member of someone who requires support to make decisions please click the following link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/RKA-carers If you are a health professional please click the following link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/RKA-healthprofessionals

12.01.2022 1st October 2019 Sonia Di Mezza, deputy CEO of ADACAS, spoke at the annual ACT Law Society 2019 annual Wills and Estates Conference, contributing to Elder Abuse awareness in the legal profession.

12.01.2022 28th May 2020 National Reconciliation Week 2020: 27 May 3 June #inthistogether ADACAS would like to acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the Country on which we work and live (the Ngunnawal, Djiringanj, Walbunja, Monaro, Brinja and the Thaua) and to extend our respects to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples across Australia for their continuing resilience and open hearts in the face of historic and present day human rights violations against them. ... ADACAS would also like to acknowledge, and give thanks for the stories, traditions and living cultures of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples of this land that enrich all Australians and recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and culture. We pay our respects to all Elders past, present and emerging. In the spirit of reconciliation week and for the days to follow ADACAS extends our gratitude to all First Nations Peoples of this Country; we commit to upholding the human rights of our First Nations Peoples and in that spirit acknowledge that we live and work on stolen lands and that sovereignty was never ceded. Reconciliation isn’t a single moment or place in time. It’s lots of small, consistent steps, some big strides, and sometimes unfortunate backwards steps Karen Mundine Chief Executive Officer, Reconciliation Australia https://www.reconciliation.org.au/what-is-reconciliation/ There can be no reconciliation without social justice. Pat Dodson Michael Bleasdale (ADACAS CEO), Helen McDermitt (Chair)

12.01.2022 2019 Showcase and AGM

11.01.2022 Supported Decision Making in Healthcare for Young People 22nd November 2019 On Tuesday 19 November ADACAS hosted our annual Supported Decision Making Forum which was opened by Minister Suzanne Orr . This year we explored opportunities and challenges for young people aged 14-19 seeking to make decisions about their healthcare. Minister Orr opened the forum and highlighted the place of supported decision making in building the skills of young decision makers and upholding human... rights. A diverse range of stakeholders including service providers, ACT Government representatives, family members and youth advocates participated in small group discussions exploring what decision making supports and rights look like for young people of different ages and lived experiences. Initial key themes to come out through these discussions were the importance of listening to young people and responding to their individual experiences and needs, up-skilling and supporting people who act as decision supporters, and enabling and supporting young people to take risks and learn from mistakes. Our panel of experts in dialogue with stakeholders explored recommendations for the future and highlighted the existing barriers and assumptions for young people who want to make healthcare decisions and receive support. We will be writing a summary report which we be available soon to everyone who attended the forum and those who request it, please email us at [email protected]

10.01.2022 We are currently looking for new Advocates and a Team Leader. For more information about current employment opportunities at ADACAS, please see our website. http://adacas.org.au/employment-opportunities/... Applications are open to Midnight, Monday the 22nd of April, 2019.

09.01.2022 'ADACAS Dreaming' Last week, artist Kelvin Carriage unveiled his artwork ‘ADACAS Dreaming’ to help us celebrate International Day of People with Disability. This painting represents Kelvin’s journey from the South Coast to Canberra to start a new life for his family. Abundance of land and sea are portrayed as significant and fundamental to life. The flowers in particular are for everyone. Kelvin has included the snake as his symbol of protection. ... This painting also represents the connection and roads travelled between Canberra and the South Coast, acknowledging that ADACAS works on the lands of both Ngunnawal and Yuin Nation. Family, health, knowledge and healing are key features represented in images of the hands of Kelvin and his wife and places of healing (hospital). The painting includes a burial ground in memory of loved ones lost and his ancestors.

09.01.2022 14 July 2020 ADACAS supports calls to Raise the Rate of Centrelink's JobSeeker and Youth Allowance payments for good. https://raisetherate.org.au/... As a society, we can't turn back to the old Newstart rate of $40 a day. People on Jobseeker and Newstart need enough money to live, for food and housing and medicines and other essentials. As such - ADACAS joins with people all across Australia today as part of a national day of action to call for a permanent and adequate rise to the rate of JobSeeker, Youth Allowance and other income support payments. #RaisetheRateforGood

09.01.2022 The SDM team at ADACAS is hosting a forum exploring supported decision making in healthcare. It will be a very interesting discussion!

09.01.2022 Wednesday 24th June 2020 Sporting clubs and groups are also considered ‘institutions’ in the National Redress Scheme. ADACAS can provide sensitive, trauma informed advice to ACT residents considering an application to the National Redress Scheme.... https://www.smh.com.au//nrl-set-to-join-national-redress-s

07.01.2022 ADACAS SERVICE DURING COVID 19 On the 16th March 2020, the World Health Organisation (WHO) announced COVID-19 as a pandemic. WHO continues to monitor the effect of any outbreaks and will respond swiftly where necessary. A list of resources of how you can help slow the spread of COVID-19 in Australia can be found on the Australian Government Health website at; https://www.health.gov.au//novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov-res...Continue reading

07.01.2022 Voting for the Impact 25 2018 Awards have now opened, and we are happy to say that 3 of our amazing people have been nominated. Pro Bono Australia's Impact 25 awards honor leaders in the Australian social sector, as nominated and voted for by their peers. Congratulations for being nominated to Helen Connelly, manager of Supported Decision Making at Adacas, Caitlin Yazidjoglou and Sara Stanley, Advocates. :D... Please follow the link below for more information and to vote. Voting closes Thursday 31 January at 5pm.

07.01.2022 DECISION SUPPORT TOOLKIT APP NOW AVAILABLE FOR ANDROID 11th July 2019 This free app is designed for you as someone who supports others to make decisions.... By supporting someone to make decisions about their life you are upholding their human rights. Throughout this app there are questions and information that may help you to support the decision maker. Use the menu button on your top right to navigate through the app and learn more about supported decision making. The app is only available for Android devices at the moment. Link to Google Play below. https://play.google.com/store/apps/details The link is also available on our website here. http://adacas.org.au/supported-deci/decision-support-tools/

07.01.2022 Join us to celebrate International Day of People with Disability. Aunty Janet will be Welcoming us to Ngunnawal Country and we will be unveiling Kelvin Carriage’s stunning artwork ‘ADACAS Dreaming’.

07.01.2022 The Gungahlin Jets Australian Football and Netball Club are putting on a free netball skills session, designed for a range of people between 6 and 7pm. You will get to the meet our all-abilities team and the coach, and try your hand at netball. Then at 7pm, our Shooting Stars all abilities team will play an Exhibition Match against a team of Local Legends!

07.01.2022 ADACAS chosen to support Redress Scheme ADACAS had been chosen as one of five agencies across Australia to deliver support and assistance to people with disability who were victims of sexual abuse within institutions and who wish to make application for the National Redress Scheme. The Honourable Paul Fletcher MP made the following media release:... https://ministers.dss.gov.au/media-releases/4616 The Liberal National Government has boosted support services for Australians engaging with the National Redress Scheme for survivors of institutional child sexual abuse by $52.1 million. Minister for Families and Social Services, Paul Fletcher, said 39 Redress Support Services would be funded until June 2021 to provide survivors with vital support before, during and after the application process. Many of these service providers are already supporting survivors and the additional funding will help them continue their important work, Mr Fletcher said. Some 35 existing services are receiving funding until June 2021 and five additional grants are being offered to establish Redress Support Services in areas of specific need. Extending the reach of this network of services is an important further step to make sure survivors receive the assistance they need, Mr Fletcher said. This includes remote and regional areas, services that support male survivors of institutional child sexual abuse, survivors with disability and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. The new service providers being offered a grant are: -ACT Disability and Carer Advocacy Service -Cape York Remote Area Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander -Child Care Advisory Association -Pilbara Community Legal Service -Survivors and Mates Support Network (SAMSN) -The Blue Knot Foundation Last week, the Government posted its list of institutions that have not yet joined the National Redress Scheme, along with the names of institutions that have joined. My message to survivors is that we are with you; we understand coming forward was a brave step and we are committed to a National Redress Scheme that delivers support, an apology if desired, and a redress payment, Mr Fletcher said. For more information, visit www.nationalredress.gov.au

05.01.2022 28th May 2020 As part of our commitment to Reconciliation, we would like to encourage everyone to read or listen to the Uluru Statement from the Heart. https://ulurustatement.org/the-statement

05.01.2022 GUNGAHLIN MOSQUE NATIONAL MOSQUE OPEN DAY Attending the Gungahlin Mosque National Mosque Open Day, Saturday 31 October 2020. Making connections with the multicultural communities via the National Disability Insurance Scheme’s Community Connectors program, which aims to connect people from culturally and linguistically diverse communities in Canberra to the NDIS. Thank you for your wonderful hospitality to everyone at Gungahlin Mosque. Photo with the Gungahlin Mosque's Board President, Mr Abdul Bari, MLA, Ms Suzanne Orr, Imam Hamza Abujarbou, Ivette Gonzalez from the ACT Disability Aged and Carers Advocacy Service (ADACAS) and Sonia Di Mezza, Senior Human Rights Advisor at Advocacy for Inclusion (AFI).

05.01.2022 Please join us next Thursday 3rd December to celebrate International Day of People with Disability. Aunty Janet will be Welcoming us to Ngunnawal Country and we will be unveiling Kelvin Carriage’s stunning artwork ‘ADACAS Dreaming’. You can join the Livestream event right here on Facebook from 12.30 pm AEDT. ADACAS would like to acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we work and live.... ADACAS extends our gratitude to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples across Australia for their continuing resilience and open hearts in the face of historical and present-day human rights violations and the destruction of their sacred sites. ADACAS would also like to acknowledge, and give thanks for the stories, traditions and living cultures of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples of this land that enrich all Australians. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging. Always was, always will be Aboriginal land Sovereignty never ceded

04.01.2022 MEDIA RELEASE: HELP NEEDED TO PREVENT FURTHER ABUSE OF OLDER AUSTRALIANS 10th December 2019 Minister for Aged Care and Senior Australians to launch new OPAN elder abuse prevention resources.... Older Persons Advocacy Network is pleased to announce that Senator the Hon Richard Colbeck, Minister for Aged Care and Senior Australians, will be officially launching Older Persons Advocacy Network’s (OPAN) resources at a free event in Melbourne. A mobile application ‘Elder Help’ and a video ‘Noticed Something?’ will be demonstrated at the launch taking place at 2pm on 12 December at Ross House in Melbourne’s CBD. Consumer Advocate Maria Berry and Community Visitor Scheme coordinator Melissa Collison (Elder Rights Advocacy) will highlight their experience of abuse of older people and how these resources will help. Every older Australian deserves to live free of abuse and neglect. Unfortunately, the abuse of older people remains an insidious issue in Australia, effecting between 2% and 10% of older people in any given year Neglect has been particularly highlighted by the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety’s interim report ‘An Issue of Neglect’, OPAN CEO Craig Gear said. These resources aim to provide information to volunteers and all those in contact with older people to aid them to recognise the signs of possible abuse, and to educate the wider community on the rights of older people receiving aged care, and how to access aged care advocacy services. OPAN hopes that the app and video will help address some of the concerns in the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety’s Interim Report, which highlighted the prevalence of abuse and neglect in aged care. It’s often aged care staff and families, as well as volunteers and visitors, who are on the frontline and might be the first to notice something is different or identify someone is at risk. OPAN wants to provide the tools to help make taking action to abuse easier The launch will also be webcast live. For more information and to register visit: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/ministerial-launch-of-opan- For copies of the ‘Noticed Something’ abuse prevention video (embargoed till midnight Wednesday 11th December) or for media attendance at the event contact [email protected] The ElderHELP app is available for download in the Appstore and through Google play More details regarding Older Persons Advocacy Network, a leader in providing aged care advocacy support and elder abuse prevention, can be found at https://opan.com.au/ For media information contact: Craig Gear, Chief Executive Officer, Older Persons Advocacy Network on (02) 8217 0211 or 0410 695 659 1 - Australian Institute of Family Studies, Elder Abuse: Understanding issues, frameworks and responses, 2016. At https://aifs.gov.au/publications/elder-abuse

04.01.2022 One of our advocates Caitlin was admitted to the ACT Supreme Court as a solicitor last week. We are incredibly proud of her efforts and grateful for her outstanding work advocating for ADACAS and our clients. Congratulations Caitlin!

04.01.2022 Happy New Year! ADACAS has reopened for the New Year. In 2021, we are celebrating our 30th year of advocating for people in our community. If you would like to speak to someone at ADACAS to see how we can help, please feel free to get in touch.

03.01.2022 19th June 2020 Applicants are being charged thousands of dollars for help with their Redress applications, but did you know that ADACAS can help ACT residents with their Redress applications for free? https://www.abc.net.au//lawyers-target-redress-a/12006878

02.01.2022 We are proud to announce that our Research and Projects Coordinator Helen Connolly received the Chief Minister’s Award for Excellence in Support Work. This is a huge achievement and a testament to Helen for her dedication and passion for supported decision making and inclusion. ADACAS was also nominated in the category of Championing Human Rights, and while we did not win, we are very proud to be amongst the finalists and give our congratulations to PWDACT and Rebus Theatre f...or their well deserved win. It’s an extraordinary privilege to have the generosity of learnings that the people I work with share with me and everyone in the community. I feel incredibly lucky to have been included in the community all my life and am really passionate about making sure that this is the experience for everyone. Thank you very much- Helen Connolly Congratulations Helen!

01.01.2022 01 November 2019 Over the last weekend, ADACAS attended the International Association of Youth Mental Health Conference in Brisbane. With 652 delegates from 41 different countries, it was an incredible event filled with invigorating discussion and calls to action. ... Our Project Officer Sarah Sowry presented on innovations in practice: "The place of supported decision making in responding to mental health issues with younger people." This stimulated an excellent discussion about the importance of supporting young people to learn skills and build their identity as decision makers. It also linked to one of the key themes of the conference (The importance of engaging with young people and sharing lived experience) and highlighted the need to keep the young person’s voice, values and rights at the centre of all aspects of mental health supports. ADACAS will use insights and learnings from the conference in our work championing the rights of all people with disability and mental ill-health.

ACT Disability Aged and Carer Advocacy Service in Weston | Community organisation