Inform issue 26 – Summer 2019

YOUR HEALTH 

Sensory overload 101 

NDIS FEATURE 

How to kick start your NDIS plan 

COVER FEATURE 

Why I'm bucking the 'disabled 

people can't work' trend 

SUMMER EDITION 

2019

Inform is 

Independence 

Australia’s crossdisability 

magazine. 

We encourage readers to 

submit suitable content 

for consideration by 

Independence Australia. All 

correspondence of this nature 

should be directed to: 

inform@iagroup.org.au 

While every effort has been 

made to ensure the accuracy 

of the information in this 

publication, Independence 

Australia assumes no 

responsibility for errors 

or omissions of any 

consequences of reliance in 

this publication. The opinions 

expressed in this publication 

do not necessarily represent 

the views of Independence 

Australia. Medical information 

included is not intended to be 

a substitute for professional 

advice. 

Your NDIS journey 

of care starts here 

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) 

is a new way to provide support for Australians 

with a disability, their families and carers. 

CORE 

SUPPORTS 

Daily activities: In-home 

& in the community. 

Consumables & 

continence products. 

CAPACITY 

BUILDING 

Therapy, skills 

development & 

co-ordination 

of support. 

CAPITAL & 

ASSISTIVE 

TECHNOLOGY 

Household aids & 

mobility equipment. 

As a leading service provider, our dedicated team of co-ordinators are here to 

support your journey to the NDIS. We’ve got you covered with a wide range of 

products, equipment, services and supports for your NDIS package, all from our 

one organisation. 

ABN 80 973 805 243 

Building 1, 9 Ashley Street 

West Footscray VIC 3012 

inform@iagroup.org.au 

www.independenceaustralia.com 

independenceaus 

independenceaus 

STEP 1. 

Preparing 

your plan. 

STEP 2. 

Developing 

your plan. 

STEP 3. 

Getting your 

plan approved 

by the NDIA. 

STEP 4. 

Choosing your 

providers and 

implementing 

your plan. 

Visit independenceaustralia.com/ndis 

to learn more about the NDIS 

and how it affects you. 

STEP 5. 

Reviewing 

your plan.

Welcome 

informonline.org.au 

3 

ISSUE #26 

contents 

Waves of 

change 

This issue of Inform is all about closing off 

2018 and welcoming a brand-new year 

ahead. While starting a new year can be 

exciting for some, it can also be a time 

of anxiety and uncertainty for others. In 

this issue we hope to equip you with some 

skills and strategies to cope with these 

emotions. 

Also in this issue we hear from Jarad, a presenter 

with Radio Adelaide about why he is bucking the 

‘people with disabilities cannot work’ attitude. 

In his feature Jarad addresses his challenges in 

finding work in the media sector and why he is now 

being up-front with potential employers about his 

disability. He also shares with us his advice for any 

job-seekers out there who might be struggling too. 

In our NDIS feature in this issue we offer advice on 

how to kick-start your NDIS plan, and what options 

you have available if you are happy (or unhappy) 

with what you have received. We also work to 

break down the key funding categories, so you can 

better understand your plan, and what your funding 

can do for you. 

The Inform team is committed to bringing you 

quality, informative content wherever you are in 

Australia, so we encourage you to get in touch with 

us if you have a story of independence to share. 

You can reach the team at inform@iagroup.org.au 

4 

10 

14 

16 

18 

20 

22 

24 

30 

Feature: Why I’m bucking the 

‘disabled people cannot work’ 

trend 

NDIS Feature: How to kick start 

your plan 

Supports for school leavers 

If you can’t say something nice… 

Flying with mobility equipment 

The What, Where and How of 

accessible beaches 

Surviving the heat 

Sensory overload 101 

How to find a hobby 

Managing Editor: Alison Crowe 

Deputy Editor: Rachel Tyler Jones 

Design: Mark Lovatt 

Cover Story Photography: 

Lee Knowles 

4 

Alison Crowe

4 informonline.org.au Feature 

Bucking 

the trend 

People with disabilities can’t work? 

Think again 

As one of the presenters of De-Stigmatised 

with Radio Adelaide, Jarad McLoughlin is an 

up-and-coming voice in the Australian media 

industry. From his perspective as someone 

with Asperger’s Syndrome, Ayme- 

Gripp Syndrome and other sensory 

impairments, Jarad shares his 

thoughts and advice on getting 

work, tenaciously following your 

passion and breaking into the 

media industry. 

Words: Jarad McLoughlin 

Pics: Lee Knowles

Feature 


5

6 informonline.org.au 

Feature 

It can be said that if you have never worked 

an honest day in your life, it brings on a horrid 

feeling of discontent and rejection if you’re 

applying for jobs in a heavily neurotypical 

workplace. Unfortunately, problems with getting 

disabled people into casual or permanent jobs 

won’t address some of the issues employers 

are not interested in resolving, including digital 

convergence, diversity recruitment and awareness 

training. 

In the radio broadcasting industry, particularly in 

community and commercial networks, people with 

disabilities still have no influential, managerial 

or strategic voice. This misaligns the balance of 

representation and inclusiveness in having a range 

of presenters, producers and directors/managers 

with good skills and knowledge in both presenting 

and using technical equipment. 

When I started writing and sending off my resume 

in my early 20s, I was quite unadventurous in what 

I wanted to do. From my earliest memories of being 

educated at special schools as a young child, 

thinking about my career goals was never in my 

inner subconscious. Even when I was 19 years old, 

I didn’t believe that I had enough talent to host and 

produce a radio show without supervision. 

In 2005, I spent six weeks at 5RPH 1197 AM (now 

known as Vision Australia Radio Adelaide), where I 

received some mentoring and guidance on working 

in a radio studio and transferring calls for on-air 

and pre-recorded interviews. After that, I tried to 

apply as a volunteer with several community radio 

stations spread across metropolitan Adelaide, but 

not one took me on.

Feature 


7 

“I had to persist in fighting to 

be heard by an industry that 

still has a very low percentage 

of employees with a disability 

or impairment”


Feature 

“I believe that 

disclosing who you are 

to potential employers 

is important in 

promoting your work 

ethic”

Feature 


9 

I didn’t fare better with employment 

agencies, as nobody could offer me any 

advice or refer me on to work that catered to 

my skillset. While undertaking my Bachelor 

of Media undergraduate degree at the 

University of Adelaide, I approached Radio 

Adelaide 101.5 FM about doing a 60-minute 

program on disability-related content, 

but was knocked back due to having no 

proper framework. Often it occurred to me 

that management misjudged my interests 

in joining the station, but ableism never 

interfered with my later involvement at Radio 

Adelaide after completing my training in May 

2016. 

According to 2014-15 figures from the 

Australian Government’s Australian Institute 

of Health and Welfare, of those aged 15+ 

who identify as being autistic 42% say 

that they are not in the labour force, while 

24% say they are employed and 34% are 

unemployed. Of the 2.1 million Australians 

with disability who are of working age, only 

1 million have found themselves a job, and 

over one-quarter of autistic jobseekers are 

involuntarily unemployed. 

A recent survey conducted by Autism 

Spectrum Australia (Aspect) discovered 

that most adults with Asperger’s Syndrome 

can’t get access to the support they need in 

achieving their career goals and aspirations. 

I had to persist in fighting to be heard by an 

industry that still has a very low percentage 

of employees with a disability or impairment. 

I was lucky – eventually Radio Adelaide did 

listen, and over the last five years I have 

involved myself with the radio station. My 

immersion at Radio Adelaide has made me 

to be more self-confident and self-assured 

in what my short- and long-term goals are 

in my career: to become the first radio 

presenter or journalist who is openly autistic 

and gay. 

Since then I have dabbled in some freelance 

journalism work with SBS, writing opinion 

editorials encapsulating the realities that 

Australia’s disability community faces daily. 

I do it without worrying about censoring or 

retracting what I say with my argumentative 

and personified opinions. 

Back in February this year, I applied for the 

ABC’s Media Cadetship Program as I thought 

I was ready to venture into the next stage 

of my career. When writing out my cover 

letter about having Asperger’s Syndrome, 

Ayme-Gripp Syndrome and other sensory 

impairments, tweaking or distorting the truth 

didn’t seem all that appealing to me. 

I believe that disclosing who you are 

to potential employers is important in 

promoting your work ethic, particularly when 

marketing your eligibility and productivity as 

a reliable employee. When deciding what to 

put into your resume before sending it off to 

businesses, double-check that everything is 

accurate and factual. The worst thing is to 

have two or more referees who are unable 

to be contacted by phone or email. 

My advice to future disabled jobseekers, 

including those who are autistic, is to refrain 

from suppressing or erasing your disability 

or impairment. If an employer is verbally 

or passively ableist, you shouldn’t sacrifice 

your mental health for financial stability. Also, 

remember to be well groomed and punctual 

when going to job interviews, as I guarantee 

you will be looked at more favourably. Who 

knows, you might just get that congratulatory 

call-back saying that you have been hired. 

Jarad will be a guest in our upcoming podcast 

episode on work and including your disability 

on your resume. You can find out more here 

www.informonline.org.au/listen


NDIS Feature 

NDIS: 

How to kick 

start your 

plan 

So you’ve successfully received an 

NDIS plan – congratulations! But are 

you finding yourself a bit unsure and 

confused about what is supposed 

to happen next? This next step can 

be daunting, particularly if you have 

never accessed funding before.

NDIS Feature 


11 

Where do I start? 

The first step is to get familiar with 

it all. There is a lot to learn and 

remember when it comes to the 

NDIS, so it is important that you take 

the time to understand what the NDIS 

is doing for you. 

Firstly, read through your plan lineby-line 

and make sure that you fully 

understand what you are covered for. 

As mentioned in issue 25 of Inform 

magazine, if this read-through causes 

any questions or concerns for you, 

make sure that you write them down 

for later. Once you’ve got your head 

around your plan, log into your NDIS 

participant portal and get familiar 

with this interface. This is particularly 

important if you are self-managing 

your plan and your funds, as this 

interface allows you to access your 

funds and pay invoices. 

Hang on, what if I’m not happy 

with my plan? 

If you have done your initial readthrough 

of your plan and you think 

that it doesn’t meet your needs, you 

are able to question these decisions 

and request a review. 

If you would like to request a 

review of the NDIS’s decision you 

can contact the NDIA – either in 

writing, over the phone or via email 

– and request an internal review 

of a decision. In this initial contact, 

briefly explain why you think this 

decision is not correct. This will 

start a process where someone at 

the NDIA will review your plan and 

will be in contact with you when a 

new decision has been made. This 

process can take some time. 

It is important for you to 

know that you can still 

use your NDIS plan even 

when you have submitted 

it for a review 

review, as using the funds doesn’t 

mean that you ‘accept’ the plan you 

aren’t happy with. So although your 

plan might be in review, it doesn’t 

mean that you have to go without 

supports while you wait! 

What if I am happy with my plan? 

If you have received your plan and 

you’re happy then you are all ready 

to go. 

If you are already receiving services 

from a service provider and you want 

to continue to use this provider, the 

first thing you should do is contact 

them and tell them that you have 

received your plan. Doing this means 

that your provider can prepare for 

your plan, and ensures that your 

service continues without any 

interruptions. When telling them about 

your plan, your provider may ask 

for some information from you, and 

they will use this to create a service 

agreement which outlines what 

services you’ll receive from them. 

If you are new to receiving services, or would 

like to try a new provider, why not use our 

‘How to pick a provider’ guide in issue 25 of 

Inform magazine and on our website? 

Find out more at: 

www.informonline.org.au/how-to-pick-a-ndisprovider/ 

It is important for you to know that 

you can still use your NDIS plan even 

when you have submitted it for a

Effective in flattening, fading and softening 

up to 90% of red 

and raised scars 4,5 

CICA-CARE – Let the anxiety fade 1,2 

CICA-CARE Gel Sheets have been shown in studies to flatten, 

fade and soften red and raised scars in up to 90% of cases. 4,5 

This includes both new and existing hypertrophic and keloid 

scars. Additionally, CICA-CARE Gel Sheets have been shown to 

be effective in the cosmetic appearance of scars up to 20 years 

old, 3 making them potentially suitable for patients who have 

experienced the long-lasting impact of scarring. When used 

correctly, CICA-CARE can give you results in as little as 

2–4 months. 4,5 

More than “just a scar” 

For many patients, a scar is more than an imperfection – it’s a 

source of physical and emotional distress. 1,2 Given the significant 

impact scarring can have on patients’ lives, international guidelines 

now recommend that following surgery or trauma, the first priority 

should always be the prevention of abnormal scar formation. 6 

Before After 1 

CICA-CARE Frequently Asked Questions 

How do I know if CICA-CARE will work on scar(s)? 

The scar needs to be red and raised for CICA-CARE to be effective 

– it doesn’t work on white and flat scars. 

How is CICA-CARE used and how long will it take for the scar to 

get better? 

It can vary from person to person and from scar to scar. Some 

people may see an improvement within days. When used correctly, 

best results are seen after 2-4 months of treatment. CICA-CARE 

wear time should be increased from 4 hours per day for the first 

two days up to a minimum of 12 hours per day. Refer to the pack 

insert for details. If possible, CICA-CARE should be worn 24 hours 

per day. This build up is necessary to get the skin accustomed to 

the gel sheet. Painless to remove and easy to replace, CICA-CARE 

stays in place, although a light bandage or tape may give extra 

help to hold it in place. CICA-CARE can be cut to size to fit most 

scars. Each separate cut piece will last up to one month in use. It is 

durable and reusable. 

How soon can CICA-CARE be used after an injury? 

CICA-CARE Gel Sheet may be used on any old or new closed 

wound. This includes red and raised scars resulting from 

surgical incisions such as Caesarean section, cosmetic surgery 

or accidental injuries, such as burns or cuts. Always ensure the 

wound is fully closed before using CICA-CARE Gel Sheet. Do not 

use on open or infected wounds, scabs, over stitches or anywhere 

where there is broken skin. 

Products listed may not be right for you. Read any warnings before purchase. 

Smith & Nephew Pty Ltd 85 Waterloo Rd North Ryde NSW 2113 Australia T +61 2 9857 3999 F +61 2 9857 3900. Trademark of Smith & Nephew. SN14231. 

References 1. Newell R. Psychological difficulties amongst plastic surgery ex-patients following surgery to the face: a survey. Brit J Plast Surg 2000; 53: 386-392. 2. Rumsey N, et al. Exploring the psychosocial concerns of 

outpatients with disfiguring conditions. J Wound Care 2003; 12: 247-252. 3. Quinn KJ. Silicone gel in scar treatment. Burns 1987; 13 (supp) : S33-S40. 4. Carney SA, et al. Cica-care gel sheeting in the management of hypertrophic 

scarring. Burns 1994;20: 163-167. 5. Mercer NSG. Silicone gel in the treatment of keloid scars. Br J Plast Surg 1989; 42: 83-87. 6. Monstrey S, et al. Updated scar management practical guidelines: non-invasive and invasive 

measures. JPRAS 2014; 67:1017-1025.

NDIS Feature 


13 

What do 

the funding 

categories 

mean? 

One of the first things we 

recommend you do when 

you receive your NDIS 

plan is to read through it 

thoroughly and make sure 

that you understand what 

you are funded for. But 

how can you understand 

your funding if you don’t 

quite understand what the 

funding categories mean? 

Don’t worry, we’ve got you 

covered. 

Core Supports 

Core supports is your flexible funding that covers activities that 

help you in your everyday life. For example, this funding can be 

used for in-home care, cleaning assistance, any needs-related 

products or assistance to access your community. This funding is 

flexible so you can use it across a number of support categories. 

Capital Supports 

Capital supports is funding for your ‘big ticket items’, such as 

car modifications or assistive technology. Sometimes you may 

need a quote or report from a specialist to be able to access 

this funding, so it is best to check with the NDIA if you have any 

queries regarding your capital supports funding. 

Capacity Building 

The final funding category is the capacity building category. 

This is to fund activities that help you build your skills and reach 

your long-term goals. This funding is not as flexible as your 

core supports, and can only be used for specified activities as 

mentioned within your plan. This funding can be used for things 

like support coordination, finding and keeping a job or improving 

your relationships, and much more. 

If you’re still feeling a bit lost the NDIS has a number of 

‘Understanding the NDIS’ booklets on its website at www.ndis. 

gov.au. We also recommend looking at the ‘NDIS Price Guide’ to 

help you understand how much each service can cost you, and 

therefore how far your funding will go.


Your future 

Supports 

for school 

leavers with 

disabilities 

Leaving school and figuring out what to do 

next is a process most people go through, and 

it’s hard for everyone. If you’re considering 

getting some help because of a disability, 

there are a few extra things you need to think 

about. Here we have tried to give you a simple 

guide, to help you get started. 

After you leave school, you might want to: 

• pursue further education 

• gain employment 

• undertake vocational training 

• participate in volunteering and/or other 

community based activities. 

When deciding what you want to do, you 

should think about: 

• what is involved with each option 

• what each option might mean for you long-term 

• how you might access your chosen option 

• what kind of assistance you might need to 

achieve your goal

Your future 


15 

For example, if you like technology you 

might want to get a job in IT. Working 

backwards from that end goal, you will need 

training, either through TAFE or a university. 

To get training you will need to apply and get 

accepted. Before that, you might need a part 

time job to support yourself. To get to your 

part time job or to university you might need 

travel training. You can get support through 

each of these steps, so it’s important to work 

backwards from your end goal, break the 

process down into steps, and figure out what 

assistance you might need along the way. 

Types of assistance you can access: 

• Job-ready training 

• Assistance finding employment 

• Assistance with independent living 

• Travel training 

This is not a complete list, but it might get 

you thinking about what is possible. 

What has changed for school leavers 

Previously school leavers were supported 

through the My Future: My Life program. 

This program will continue to be available 

until the NDIS rolls out in your area, at which 

point you will move over to the NDIS. You 

can apply for NDIS school-leaver support 

up to six months before the NDIS rolls out in 

your area. 

How the new system works 

If you are eligible for the NDIS you can 

access School Leaver Employment Supports 

(SLES) during your final two years of 

schooling, or up to two years after leaving 

school. The earlier you start this process, 

the better your chances of getting all the 

support you need. 

in your NDIS plan. To access this, you need 

to contact your Local Area Coordinator to 

develop a plan. You can do this up to two 

years before you leave school. 

Before you go to your meeting, you may 

wish to identify which supports you may 

need. For example: 

• assistance in getting work experience 

while you are still at school, so you can 

identify what sort of work you might want 

to do 

• undertaking job skills training, to improve 

your employability 

• undertaking travel training, so you can get 

to and from work independently 

• assistance in creating a CV or in applying 

for roles 

• assistance with your application for 

further study or training 

• assistance finding a community 

organisation or volunteer position 

Your Local Area Coordinator will help you to 

think through the options, and help you to 

develop a plan that’s right for you. 

If you would like to read more, to help 

you consider all your options, the Better 

Health Channel has created a very 

comprehensive resource, which can be 

found at www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/ 

ServicesAndSupport/postschool-options-forpeople-with-a-disability. 

If you’ve got a story about leaving school, or think you 

could offer some advice to other school leavers based 

on your own experience, we’d love to hear from you. 

Email us at inform@iagroup.org.au 

SLES is one of many supports available 

through the NDIS. As with all things NDIS, it 

is available if it is deemed reasonable and 

necessary for the school leaver. Because 

SLES is a support, it needs to be included


Your health 

If you 

can’t say 

something 

nice… 

Dealing with stigma is part of everyday life 

for those living with a disability, and for those 

that don’t have the right coping strategies it 

can take a toll on your emotional health. Here 

are some ways in which you can deal with 

unwanted advice and opinions. 

Speak up 

Stigma can often mean that an 

individual is thought of as being 

‘other’ and there is often a separation 

created between the different parties. 

It is important to be able to speak up 

and inform people that you are equal 

and deserve to be treated as so. 

Educate 

A lot of people may be creating these 

differences because they genuinely 

don’t understand someone’s 

disability, so informing and educating 

these family members is key. This 

will also give you the opportunity to 

correct inaccurate statements and 

misunderstandings. 

Participate 

People may not understand your 

capabilities so leaving you out of 

an activity may seem like their only 

option. In this case, speak up and 

let them know that you would like 

to participate and suggest a few 

activities that you may be able to do.

Your health 


17 

The anticipation of a new year 

can sometimes bring about 

feelings of stress and anxiety 

for some children and adults 

with disabilities. 

Connect with your support 

system 

If all else fails, remove yourself from 

the negative situation and surround 

yourself with people who are 

respectful, accepting and understand 

your disability. 

Be prepared 

Preparing yourself for an 

uncomfortable situation may be a 

useful strategy for being able to take 

care of yourself on the day if things 

go south. Having already developed 

strategies for situations that may 

upset you or make you angry may be 

helpful in being able to cope with the 

circumstance. For example, removing 

yourself from the situation, breathing 

exercises, going outside for some 

fresh air, sitting in another room and 

doing an activity that relaxes you such 

as reading. 

Realistic thinking 

Remember that thoughts and opinions 

are not facts! It is critical to remember 

that you are your own expert, you 

know your ability and being able to 

identify the unrealistic thoughts and 

opinions of yourself and others is a 

necessity. 

Tips for family 

and friends 

While the new year can bring times of 

joy and excitement to some of us, it 

can sometimes bring about feelings of 

stress and anxiety for some children 

and adults with disabilities. 

Here are a few tips and ideas for 

family members and friends to try, to 

help create a positive environment for 

those living with a disability. 

Inform and educate – who 

needs to know? 

There are many situations where 

extended family gets together and 

some family members or friends 

may not completely understand an 

individual’s disability or know how 

to act when around them. It might 

be useful for family members or the 

individual with the disability to send 

out a quick update to other family 

members before any big events, and 

this update may include: 

• Achievements and events that 

have happened during the year 

• Activities and topics that the 

individual may enjoy discussing 

• Activities and topics that people 

should avoid 

• Things that the individual 

may enjoy or find difficult and 

challenging during the festive 

celebrations 

A designated safe area might also 

be helpful, if an individual starts to 

become overwhelmed and requires 

a quiet and designated space where 

they can retreat. This area can be 

a calming place where they can 

complete an activity or task that they 

may prefer (e.g. reading their favorite 

book or listening to music).


Our advice 

Flying with 

mobility 

equipment 

Requiring mobility equipment shouldn’t hold 

you back from taking to the skies, but the 

reality is that it does take a bit of extra 

planning before you can board the plane. 

Most airlines have improved their mobility 

assistance services over the last couple of 

years, and it’s now much easier than it used to 

be to communicate your needs. So what can 

you take, and how can you make sure it arrives 

in one piece? 

Do your research 

The first step is to do your research. 

Each airline has its own restrictions, 

procedures and costs around 

bringing your own mobility equipment 

on board. For example, some airlines 

charge extra if you need a lift to get 

up the stairs for planes that don’t 

have an aerobridge, while others 

offer this service free of charge. 

Each airline will have this information 

listed on its website. Alternatively 

you can call the airline and talk to 

someone about your needs. Another 

complicating factor is that while 

many newer, larger aeroplanes 

can accommodate full-size mobility 

scooters and wheelchairs, older 

and/or smaller aircraft may not have 

this capability. Where you can go or 

what you can take may be restricted 

by the aircraft that flies this route. 

Again, this is a question you can ask 

the airline. Finally, it’s important to

Our advice 


19 

let the airline know that you will be 

bringing a mobility aid early, as many 

aeroplanes can only accommodate a 

small number of these, and there may 

already be other people who have 

booked a spot for a wheelchair or 

scooter on your flight. 

Communicate early and often 

Once upon a time airlines understood 

“I need mobility assistance” as 

“I need a wheelchair”, but these 

days you can communicate your 

needs with a level of nuance. 

Communicating your specific needs 

with the airline well ahead of time will 

ensure you have the best possible 

experience. Start by calling when you 

are booking your ticket to ensure 

the airline can accommodate your 

needs. Then call again the day 

before your travel, to confirm your 

plans and go over what will happen 

when you arrive at the airport. Finally, 

ensure you arrive at the airport 

with plenty of extra time, as it may 

take you longer to get to your gate. 

Whatever your specific needs are, 

if you communicate them early and 

often you are more likely to get 

the individual support you require, 

rather than being treated as ‘generic 

disability’. 

When you arrive at the airport 

If you give them enough notice some 

airlines will meet you at your car 

with a wheelchair. You can request 

a golf buggy ride if you are more 

mobile, but may still find the long trip 

between check in and the final gate 

too long and strenuous. If you use 

crutches or walking sticks let the staff 

at security checkpoints know that you 

require these aids to walk – if you 

communicate your needs, they can 

pass your walking stick(s) through the 

scanner, and then bring them back 

to you, to allow you to walk on your 

own through the security checkpoint. 

Alternatively, they may provide a 

wheelchair to get you to the other 

side. Finally, if you are checking in 

a wheelchair or scooter, ensure you 

bring the manual and any tools you 

may require to disassemble it. Most 

airlines will require that tall backrests 

are removed, or they may have other 

requirements. Ensure you arrive with 

plenty of time to undertake these 

tasks, and that you bring someone to 

assist you, as airlines may not be able 

to do so. 

On the plane 

Remember that being on the plane 

itself may take some planning. Airline 

staff are not expected to assist with 

eating, administering medication, 

using the toilet or lifting or carrying a 

passenger. If you are likely to require 

this type of assistance, you’ll need 

to bring someone with you who can 

perform these tasks. If you need 

a carer, they may be eligible for a 

Companion Card discount from the 

airline, which can provide tickets at a 

significantly reduced cost. 

Touchdown 

If you have a stopover, it’s worth 

checking whether you will have 

access to your mobility aids. If 

they have been stored under the 

aeroplane, the answer is likely no, so 

come up with a plan for the stopover 

ahead of time in consultation with the 

airline. It’s also important to plan what 

will happen at your final destination. 

Talk to the airline about where you 

can pick up your mobility aids, or 

what assistance may be available 

in terms of commuting through the 

airport to pick up your luggage.


Summer 

The What, 

Where and How 

of accessible 

beaches

Summer 


21 

What are accessible beaches? 

Accessible beaches have been made 

more accessible for people with wheels 

– whether you’re in a wheelchair, using a 

mobility scooter or even pushing a pram. 

There are usually a few considerations when 

making a beach accessible. Accessible 

beaches offer ramps or stair-free access to 

the sand. They also have beach matting, to 

make rolling across the sand possible in a 

standard wheelchair. Many also offer beach 

wheelchairs for hire. Beach wheelchairs 

have buoyant armrests and wheels that 

allow the chair to float in the water. They 

also have straps to secure the rider. Beach 

wheelchairs are designed to enter the water, 

up to the waist height of a support person, 

so that everyone can enjoy the beach and 

have a dip. Finally, some accessible beaches 

may offer access to Changing Places 

facilities. 

Changing Places 

Changing Places is a project to advocate for 

public toilets with full sized change tables 

and hoists in major public spaces across 

Australia to meet the needs of people with 

disabilities. If you are looking to hire a beach 

wheelchair, but will need the help of a hoist 

to transfer from a standard wheelchair to 

a beach wheelchair, then looking for an 

accessible beach that also has a Changing 

Place is going to make the process much 

easier. Not all accessible beaches have a 

Changing Place. 

Where can I find my nearest 

accessible beach? 

The Accessible Beaches Australia website 

has a good list of accessible beaches. 

You should also check in with your local 

city council. And, if you are looking for a 

beach with access to a Changing Place, 

the Changing Places website offers a 

searchable map of accredited facilities. 

Beach wheelchairs are 

designed to enter the water, 

up to the waist height of 

a support person, so that 

everyone can enjoy the 

beach and have a dip. 

How can I get my local beach made 

accessible? 

Although Accessible Beaches Australia has 

a vision to make most patrolled beaches 

accessible by 2020, local councils need 

to know there is a demand for this service. 

When they are presented with the idea of 

making a beach accessible, most councils 

are concerned about the work and the cost 

involved. To counteract this, Accessible 

Beaches Australia hosts accessible beach 

days, where they demonstrate to local 

councils both how easy it is to make 

beaches accessible, and how high the 

demand is in the local community. Councils 

can contact Accessible Beaches Australia 

through their website to request a trial 

accessible beach day. In many cases, the 

trial can be provided free of charge. As a 

local resident you can always contact your 

local council to let them know that services 

like these exist – the fact that they can be 

tried risk (and cost) free makes it a much 

more appealing proposal! 

To find out more, visit 

accessiblebeaches.com and changingplaces.org.au


Your health 

Surviving 

the heat 

There are a range of reasons people’s bodies don’t cope well with 

the heat. Some medications, such as blood pressure medication, 

antidepressants, antihistamines and more can interfere with a person’s 

ability to manage hotter weather. As we get older we don’t perspire as 

much, so our bodies have more difficulty cooling themselves. Those 

with a cognitive disability may not ‘feel’ the heat, or may not be able to 

communicate their discomfort.

Your health 


23 

Getting too hot can be 

dangerous, especially when 

the person has trouble 

communicating their discomfort 

Whatever the reason, if you or a 

person you are caring for are at 

an increased risk from the heat 

of summer, there are a number of 

steps you can take to stay cool. It is 

important to know the signs of heatrelated 

distress, and how to avoid 

it, as in extreme cases becoming 

overheated can be life-threatening. 

Signs of heat-related distress: 

• Headache, nausea and fatigue are 

all signs of heat stress 

• Cool, moist skin; a weakened 

pulse and feeling faint are all signs 

of heat fatigue 

• Thirst, giddiness, weakness, lack 

of coordination, nausea, profuse 

sweating, cold and clammy skin, 

possible raised pulse, possible 

contracted pupils and possible 

vomiting are all signs that the body 

is getting too hot, which is known 

as heat exhaustion 

• If not treated, heat exhaustion can 

lead to heat stroke. Heat stroke 

is life-threatening and immediate 

medical attention is required. 

Symptoms can include confusion, 

combativeness, bizarre behaviour, 

faintness, staggering, rapid pulse, 

dry hot and flushed skin, lack of 

sweating, possible fast, shallow 

breathing and possible dilated 

pupils. Later stages can include 

delirium, seizures and coma. 

Getting too hot can be dangerous, 

especially when the person has 

trouble communicating their 

discomfort, so it’s important to know 

the signs ahead of time, and to take 

steps to remain cool during hot 

weather. 

Ways to stay cool in the heat: 

• Stay hydrated. Sip on cool drinks 

often. Water is best, but if you 

prefer fruit juice then water it down 

to improve hydration. Avoid drinks 

with alcohol, caffeine or excess 

sugar. 

• Stay out of the sun during the 

hottest part of the day, and if 

you have to go out cover up with 

loose, cool clothing and a hat. 

Natural fibers such as cotton will 

keep you cooler than polyester. 

• Take a cool shower or bath, or 

splash yourself with cool water. 

• Identify the coolest room you have 

access to ahead of time, so you 

know where to go in the heat. 

• Avoid turning on the oven or 

stove, as this will introduce heat 

into the house. Instead, opt for a 

cool, fresh meal, such as a proteinrich 

salad. 

• Check in with others. If you know 

someone who lives alone, or you 

yourself live alone, check in with 

others throughout heatwaves, to 

ensure everyone is staying safe 

and keeping cool. 

Other things to consider include 

checking medications to ensure 

they are being stored at a safe 

temperature, and putting them into 

a cooler room or even the fridge if 

it’s getting too hot inside the house. 

If you are ever concerned about 

how you will cope with the heat, or 

whether a medication will affect how 

your body responds to the heat you 

should have a chat with a medical 

professional, as they can help you 

make a plan. If you are worried that 

someone may be suffering from 

heat-related distress, it is important 

to seek medical attention urgently, as 

heat-related distress can become lifethreatening 

if not treated. 

Please note the information supplied is 

general in nature. Please consult your medical 

practitioner for individual advice.


Your health 

Sensory 

overload 101 

Anyone can experience sensory overload, but some 

conditions can make sensory overload debilitating. 

Conditions such as sensory processing disorder, chronic 

fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, post-traumatic stress 

disorder and Autism spectrum disorder all exacerbate the 

experience of sensory overload, and can make access to 

safe spaces and sensory friendly environments a necessity 

for participating fully in everyday life.

Your health 


25 

Everyday environments where sensory 

overload is more likely to occur include 

shopping centres, cinemas, festivals, public 

transport, noisy cafes and even busy roads. 

Some sectors are becoming more aware of 

sensory overload, and are starting to create 

safe spaces to become more inclusive for 

people with differing sensory needs. 

The below list is by no means exhaustive – 

these are just some examples of businesses 

doing good work with safe spaces for 

sensory overload. You can look online for 

programs running in your local area, and if 

you can’t find any why not take the first step 

and make a proposal for a program you’d 

like to see run near you? 

Shopping 

With their harsh lighting, banging trolleys 

and beeping machines, supermarkets can 

be a big ask for someone who suffers from 

sensory overload. Coles Supermarkets 

has partnered with Autism Spectrum 

Australia (Aspect) to run a sensory overload 

friendly ‘Quiet Hour’ every Tuesday from 

10.30–11.30am across a number of its stores 

nationally. During Quiet Hour the lighting is 

dimmed, and noise is reduced by ensuring 

that shelf-restocking carts are removed 

from the shop floor, and beeps on checkout 

machines are turned off. You can find a 

participating store by visiting the Coles 

website. The Good Guys is running a similar 

initiative, and the concept is beginning to 

catch on with other retailers. 

Some shopping centres, for example the 

Northland Shopping Centre in Melbourne, 

are creating sensory safe spaces for 

shoppers who need some down time. These 

are quiet rooms with gentle lighting and soft 

fittings to give shoppers or their children 

some time out to reset and relax before 

continuing with their shopping. 

These quiet rooms with gentle 

lighting and soft fittings are 

designed to give shoppers or 

their children some time out 

to reset and relax 

Driving 

Drive Smart Driving School in Adelaide has 

partnered with Autism SA to train staff to run 

programs specifically for teaching learner 

drivers with Autism Spectrum Disorder, to 

help them to become safe, independent 

drivers. 

Hairdressers 

There are a number of hairdressers who 

specialise in giving haircuts to children and 

adults who find the experience of getting a 

haircut overwhelming. Giggle and Scissors 

are a mobile Brisbane based company. 

Shear Abilities salon in Maitland offers a 

friendly and inclusive space. 

Cinemas 

Some cinemas run sensory-friendly sessions, 

which include dimmed lighting and lowered 

volume, and no judgement for getting up 

and moving around during the film. Event 

Cinemas and Village Cinemas both run 

sensory-friendly sessions, so check out their 

websites to find a session near you. 

Sensory overload can be debilitating, but 

initiatives like those mentioned can help to 

make everyday activities bearable, and for 

some, possible for the first time. It is always 

worth encouraging your local businesses 

and councils to look at the success of these 

programs in other areas and to consider 

doing something similar, so we can all enjoy 

being out in the world.

Abri-Form Junior 

Supporting the changing needs 

From child to young adult 

Shop online at store.independenceaustralia.com or call 1300 788 855 

Skincare Lotion 

With age, the skin changes and can become dry, which can cause irritation. Moisturising twice 

a day helps to maintain skin integrity. 

The Abena Skincare Lotion is a gentle, effective product suitable for daily care of the 

skin. The lotion contains both nourishing ingredients that moisturise the skin, and stearates 

that increase the speed of absorption. Assists with regenerating the skin’s own defence 

system, and assists with skin elasticity. 

• CLINICALLY PROVEN* 

• Skin neutral pH 

• 16% fat content 

• Nordic Swan certified 

• Dermatologically tested 

*The effectiveness of a twice-daily skin-moisturising regimen for reducing the incidence of skin tears Carville K et al (2014) International 

Wound Journal ISSN 1742-4801 

Shop online at store.independenceaustralia.com or call 1300 788 855

Melbourne Disability Expo 


27 

The Melbourne 

Disability 

Expo 2018 

My future, my choice 

The Melbourne Disability Expo was 

more relevant than ever in 2018. 

The NDIS is now fully rolled out 

or being rolled out progressively 

across most of Victoria’s metro 

and regional areas. Under the new 

scheme thousands of Victorians with 

disabilities are expected to make 

decisions about their own care, or the 

care of their loved ones, and with so 

many services on offer this can be an 

overwhelming task. 

The yearly expo allows people with 

disabilities to find out about the 

latest products, services, technology, 

aids and equipment, by talking 

face-to-face with people working 

for those companies. It can be an 

important step in finding a provider 

who feels trustworthy, capable and 

respectful of your choices. This year 

the expo took place over Friday 

16 and Saturday 17 November at 

the Melbourne Convention and 

Exhibition Centre. Over 150 service 

and product providers exhibited at 

a stall, and visitors were able to try 

products, talk to industry experts, 

listen to information sessions and 

take advantage of the children’s 

entertainment. 

Independence Australia’s photobooth was 

particularly popular – turn over the page to 

see some fantastic snaps from the day!


Photos 

The Melbourne 

Disability Expo

Featured Products 


29 

TENA takes 

special care 

of skin 

TENA is a name better known for 

continence products but did you know 

they are also the skincare specialists. 

Continence and skincare are closely 

linked, skin breakdown can be caused by 

the repeated wetting and drying of the 

skin with the affected area being more 

susceptible to damage. 

Lanna Ramsay, head of Ozcare Aged 

Care used the TENA skincare range on 

her father “My father has always had very 

sensitive skin and is prone to easy bruising. 

As he is quite active and he often gives 

himself small skin tears, and sometimes 

big., I have had him using TENA Wash 

Cream and Skin Lotion for about three 

years. Over that time, there has been a 

significant improvement in his skin and a 

decreased number of small skin tears” 

Traditional soap and water can also be 

very harsh on delicate skin, and conditions 

like Incontinence Associated Dermatitis 

(IAD) can be painful however the TENA 

3-in-1 range does not require soap or water 

to cleanse and ensures that the skin is 

cleaned, protected and moisturised. 

Daily checklist for healthy skin: 

✓✓ 

Prevention is the best treatment, cleanse 

the body daily 

✓✓ 

Cleanse the skin well when using the 

toilet or after every pad change 

✓✓ 

Moisturise the skin after cleansing to 

avoid dehydration and form a protective 

barrier 

✓✓ 

Protect the genital area (perineum 

specifically) with a barrier cream if area 

is exposed to regular faecal or urinary 

incontinence 

Tena Skincare Products 

TENA wet wipes 

3 in 1 cloth that is premoistened 

to clean 

the perineum 

TENA wash cream 

3-in 1 no-rinse cream 

that cleanses the 

body or perineum and 

acts as three products 

in one, a gentle 

cleanser, moisturiser 

and protective cream. 

It can be safely left on 

the skin and is ideally 

applied with the TENA 

soft cloth 

TENA skin lotion 

deep moisturizer that 

contains natural oils 

that make it gentle 

and suitable for 

delicate/sensitive skin 

and for use on the 

whole body 

TENA Barrier Cream 

forms a protective 

layer over the skin; 

keeps moisture in; 

prevents irritants 

penetrating the skin.


Our advice 

How to find 

a hobby 

Finding the right hobby for you can be 

tricky. Many people leave hobbies behind in 

childhood, and then never quite figure out how 

to get back to spending weekend afternoons 

engrossed in a good book, or letting it all out 

in drama class. 

So, if you’re stuck, here are some steps that 

might help you to start the process. 

First, think about the sort of person 

you are. Do you want a hobby that is 

just a bit of fun, or do you need to be 

doing something productive in order 

to relax? This may determine the 

type of hobby you look for. Do you 

want a hobby where the activity is the 

main focus, or are you looking for a 

group of like-minded people, where 

the hobby itself is less important 

than being social? Are you a morning 

person who would enjoy sunrise 

meditation, or would you prefer to 

do a hobby in the afternoon on the 

weekends, when you are at your 

most relaxed? If you factor these 

things in when choosing a hobby, 

you are more likely to find something 

you can stick with and enjoy for more 

than a few weeks. 

Second, think about what makes 

you happy, and the activities you 

already enjoy. It’s important to think

Our advice 


31 

about why you enjoy them, too. For 

instance, two people may enjoy 

playing board games with friends, but 

for one person the important thing 

is spending time with friends, and 

for the other person it’s the mental 

challenge and strategic thinking that 

keeps them coming back week after 

week. If these two people were to 

pick new hobbies, they would likely 

pick two different activities, despite 

both enjoying board games. It’s the 

why that’s important here. 

Next, look for inspiration. Think about 

the things you enjoyed as a child. 

Spend some time in a bookstore, and 

be aware of which sections excite you 

– are you drawn to the cookbooks? 

Or do you spend all your time in the 

history section? Think about projects 

you may have undertaken in the past, 

and see if you could turn this into an 

ongoing hobby. Take a look at local 

notice boards, and just see what’s on 

offer in your area – the avenues for 

inspiration are endless. 

Finally, try a few hobbies out. You 

likely won’t be sure whether you 

enjoy something until you try it, 

and hobby collecting can become 

a hobby itself. We’ve put together 

a list of different hobbies to help 

inspire you – why not pick twelve, 

and commit to trying a new one every 

month for an entire year? Who knows, 

maybe something will stick. 

Try a few hobbies. You 

likely won’t be sure whether 

you enjoy something 

until you try it, and hobby 

collecting can become a 

hobby itself. 

25 hobbies to 

inspire you 

Hobbies to help you learn a skill 

• Learn a language 

• Improve your cooking 

• Take up gardening 

• Take up film photography 

• Learn a musical instrument 

• Enroll in an online degree 

• Attend free lectures 

Hobbies you can do alone 

• Become a podcast listener 

• Become a Wikipedia editor 

• Rate and review movies online 

• Take up meditation 

• Write letters to people 

• Hobbies to do with friends 

• Learn to play a team sport 

• Get together and play board 

games 

• Start a documentary watching club 

• Become a computer gamer 

• Form a pub trivia team 

• Join a historical reenactment 

group 

Hobbies that could make you 

some pocket money 

• Become a blogger 

• Take up a craft and sell your wares 

• Write a book 

• Become a decluttering guru 

• Make a podcast 

• Learn to decorate cakes 

• Buy and resell items on eBay (for a 

profit!)

Independence Australia is a: 

NDIS approved provider 

TAC service provider 

DHHS service provider 

Our services include: 

In-home care 

Accommodation 

Psychology and counselling 

Case management 

Support Coordination 

Information 

Post polio support 

Health care products and equipment 

1300 704 456 

service.enquiry@iagroup.org.au 

www.independenceaustralia.com.au 

independenceaust 

@independenceaus

Inform issue 26 – Summer 2019

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