Department of Social Services (DSS)

A turning point for disability-led research in Australia The National Disability Research Partnership (NDRP) has launched its first independent grant round, investing $600,000 in disability-led research on the safety of people with disability, with more funding available in late 2025. This marks the start of a long-term funding commitment to drive systemic change and ensure people with lived experience lead the research that shapes policy and improves support systems. “This funding gives power back to people who have traditionally been sidelined,” said NDRP CEO, Mary Sayers. “It’s about practical solutions, led by people with disability who live the experience and understand what’s needed.” The Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability exposed widespread mistreatment and systemic failures. The NDRP funding supports research that will directly impact policy and systems change, focusing on the safety of people with disability across the NDIS, health, education, housing, and accessible communities. The Australian Government has committed almost $14 million to support the NDRP as part of Australia’s Disability Strategy, ensuring people with disability are at the forefront of shaping solutions that matter most to them. Applications for Round 1 funding close on 28 April 2025. Details on Round 2 funding will be announced later this year. To learn more, visit https://lnkd.in/g64PBAgs #DisabilityLedResearch #PolicyChange #Inclusion #NDRP

Young volunteers bring energy, enthusiasm and new ideas to your organisation, and are likely to volunteer throughout their lives. Young volunteers like Noah, who volunteers with the South Maroubra Surf Life Saving Club, are able to balance their volunteering with school and life commitments, developing great friendships along the way. Do you have volunteer opportunities available at your organisation? To find out more, and to register your volunteer opportunities, visit volunteering.gov.au.

Applications for the NDIS Reform Advisory Committee (RAC) are open. The Committee will work with government to make sure NDIS reforms benefit the disability community. ‘People with disability are essential to any change about us. The RAC means our voices will be heard, so apply today.’ – El Gibbs, Co-Chair of the NDIS Reform Advisory Committee. Apply today to represent the disability community and help make positive change in the NDIS. Find out more at: https://lnkd.in/gyT2bvJU Applications close 24 March.

Today kicks off National Playgroup Week. Playgroups support the development and wellbeing of children, help build parent-child relationships and provide social and parenting support for parents and carers. The Department of Social Services funds programs to support children and families, including playgroups across the country. To learn more about what the department does for children and families, visit https://lnkd.in/gfMVyE6A

Far too many young people experience sexual assault or violence. It’s a challenging reality, but we have the power to change it. Dr Justin Coulson explains https://lnkd.in/gmY8N5_D #ConsentCantWait #Consent

The Australian Government has zero tolerance for domestic, family and sexual violence against anyone, including permanent or temporary visa holders. If you or someone you know is a permanent or temporary visa holder experiencing domestic or sexual abuse, 1800RESPECT offers free and confidential counselling, information and support. You can also use the Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National) to contact 1800RESPECT. If you are affected by violence and are concerned about your visa status, you can visit the Department of Home Affairs website for more information https://lnkd.in/gCbjBzdt

The Safe to Speak Cultures guide aims to help people and teams create an environment where all employees feel safe and supported to raise concerns without fear of retribution. Hear from Chantel McCrae, Director of Corporate Services at @OurWatchAus on her insights into Safe to Speak workplaces. https://lnkd.in/gA8uUczY Find out more by visiting www.ourwatch.org.au

Happy International Women’s Day! Together, we can be the generation to close the gap to achieve gender equality. The Department of Social Services is acknowledging International Women’s Day through an online event, with a panel of DSS staff and guest speakers. How are you celebrating International Women’s Day in the workplace? Learn more about the Australian Government’s National Plan to End Violence Against Women and Children at https://lnkd.in/ggmMYKb7 #MarchForward #IWD2025

You can apply for the National Redress Scheme in paper form or online through MyGov. Learn more about how you can link your MyGov account at https://bit.ly/41kdwmU Applying to the National Redress Scheme can feel a bit overwhelming at first. It can be helpful to talk to someone from a Redress Support Service before deciding if you want to apply. They can help you with your application and provide support. Find out more about applying to the National Redress Scheme at https://lnkd.in/g8hTwfVC

Applications for the NDIS Reform Advisory Committee (RAC) are open. The Committee will work with government to make sure NDIS reforms benefit the disability community. ‘The views of people with disability are essential to improving the NDIS. The RAC will ensure our diverse experiences and knowledge are at the heart of reform.’ – Dougie Herd, Co-Chair of the NDIS Reform Advisory Committee. Apply today to represent the disability community and help make positive change in the NDIS. Find out more at: https://lnkd.in/gyT2bvJU