BigDog Newsletter August 2022

Commonwealth Games

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How things have changed since I was a kid. We had Dick and Jane with the title “Fun with Dick and Jane” and Dick and Dora with Nip and Fluff. Then there were some educational titles including “How Mommy gets out of tickets”, “Mommy and the Milkman” (a who’s your daddy book), “All the friends you’ll make in witness protection”, “While Daddy’s Doin’ Time” (counting the days until he’s back on the streets) and one of my special favourites “Goodbye, Testicles” by Anne Welsh Guy (all about your boy dog having that special operation) We have to remember that back in the 50’s, Dick was the typical nickname for someone named Richard. Nowadays, especially those of us with a raunchy sense of humour, we laugh at a book such as this because the combination of Dick with lick is just not a word combination you want to have on a book. Let alone, a book for kids.

In This Issue 2 Editor’s Notes 3 Commonwealth Games 4 What is the cost of quality 5 Business disABILITY AWARDS 6 Our Community 7 WhatsUp in Disability 8 Child Safety 9 NGO Training Infographic 10 Toowoomba Group

11 Rockhampton Group 12 WHS 13 Staff Updates 14 What’s happening in August BigDog Newsletter Privacy Notice: Please note that as a subscriber to our BigDog Newsletter which supplies news and events relevant to this organisation, your email address or any other personal information collected will only be used for the purpose for which you gave it to us and will not be disclosed to any other person, body or agency except where you have provided your consent or it is required or authorised by law.

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There’s something to be said about watching Australians represent our fine country. It’s exciting, exhilarating, and brings all sorts of people together to celebrate national pride and our wonderful athletes.

The Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games kick off and the Australian line-up features Olympic champions and fresh faces repping Australia for the first time in the Games. There will be 435 Aussie athletes all vying for medals in 20 sports.

For the 2022 Games, we see 8 para-sports, with athletes with disabilities competing for medals in swimming, athletics, powerlifting, lawn bowls, table tennis, track, triathlon and basketball.

This year is also the first time the Commonwealth Games have an integrated program of sports featuring athletes and para-athletes. No separate schedules. No separate games. It’s a unified approach to showcase the brilliant competitors across the Commonwealth.

More than 5000 athletes from 72 nations will compete at Alexander Stadium from 28 July to 8 August.

8 of the sports in the Commonwealth Games will feature some of our para-athletes. This is the most events for athletes with disability in the Games’ history. It’s been 40 years since we saw para-sports linked to the Commonwealth Games, but it’s only been 20 years since para-events were in the Games with full medal status.

What you might not know is Australia has had some momentous contributions when it comes to para-sports and the Games.

Back in the 1950s George Bedbrook, who was director of the Spinal Unit of Royal Perth Hospital, organised para-sport in Australia and by 1959, the Paraplegic Association of WA began to promote the 1962 Paraplegic Empire Games.

Fast forward to 2018 and the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games took para-sports to a whole new level, with 38 medal events across seven sports.

Brendan Hall (second from the left) with team mates of the Australian Swimming team arrive in Birmingham for the 2022 games.

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Jessica Quilty DSC The cost of provider registration, including audits and the associated administrative burden, was canvassed widely.

For many larger organisations, this has meant the establishment of new quality and compliance teams.

For smaller or new providers, the regulatory burden is often deemed prohibitive and disproportionate.

Concerns were also raised about geographical factors and duplication for professionals such as those in Allied Health.

Practice standards The sheer increase in the number of quality standards under the NDIS Commission and the minuscule timeframes in which providers have been expected to conform to amendments to the standards have also been raised loudly in submissions.

Incident and restrictive practice reporting While the NDIS Commission expects real-time reporting, the limited technological solutions and lack of interfacing with CRMs mean providers often struggle to be efficient. And we do know the NDIA loves to talk about being efficient. Moreover, the lack of streamlined reporting and information sharing with states and territories can translate to increased costs through duplication of reporting.

nised as ensuring a higher level of quality and safety, the financial impost was criticised for penalising registered providers and incentivising growth in the unregistered market.

Some felt that it was unfair that unregistered providers could charge the same prices as – well in some cases actually more than – registered providers.

Misalignment between the NDIA and NDIS Commission The working group also raised concerns about continuity of support and duty of care, where the requirements of the NDIS Commission were not well aligned with the NDIA’s planning processes or with the pricing arrangements. If support is untenable, the NDIS Commission appears to expect providers to continue service until another provider is in place – even if the participant’s plan does not include sufficient funding to safely do so.

These themes are consistent with what we have been hearing for some time, so it is pleasing to hear the NDIA appears to have listened in this round of consultation. The costs associated with registration have also been raised in the NDIS Commission’s Registration Roundtable.

Registration disincentives While NDIS certification was generally recog-

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Reggie Bird is the first person in history to win Big Brother Australia TWICE She also revealed her main motivation for returning for the 2022 season of the show was to provide for her children.

'I’ve got to do this for my kids,' said Reggie.

The fan favourite has limited vision and is legally blind, while her son Lucas has cystic fibrosis.

Reggie also revealed that most taxi drivers won't pick her up because she isn't travelling far enough, even though she's unable to drive herself due to her vision impairment.

'Even when you're getting a taxi – I've had a few say, "You're only going up the road, why can't you walk?"

Things like that upset me,' she said She also admitted that she struggles to get around with her walking cane for assistance.

Reggie with Steven at the Business disABILITY Awards media launch event at the Toowoomba City Hall.

The Business DisABILITY Awards recognises businesses and individuals across Toowoomba and the Darling Downs who support, educate and employ people with a disability. BigDog was a winner of the most inclusive employer category for our focus of assisting people with disability to find work as support workers.

'Sometimes when I forget to take my cane to the shops and I bang into people... they look at me and just think I'm being rude.'

Reggie told me that all she currently wants is to have a job, but employers walk away when they learn that she is legally blind. Such a lovely person, Reggie deserves to have the opportunity to work. Best of luck.

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Cost of delivering group-based core supports Group programs require additional resources to be effectively delivered. This is partly due to the time required to plan and organise a group that caters to individual and group needs, including relationships between members. Other increased costs cited include activityspecific risk assessments, program-specific training, assistive technology, and building modifications.

The capital and infrastructure costs associated with running centrebased programs with specialised equipment are said to be significantly higher than is currently allowed. Capital allowances were generally considered inadequate, particularly given recent shifts in the property market, and limitations on group sizes and participant numbers due to COVID restrictions were said to add further strain.

The NDIS Annual Price Review (APR) said the NDIA's benchmarking did not support the claims that group-based supports cost more. They said “efficient providers” of group-based core supports have a significantly lower overheads than other core support providers. While the wages appear to be slightly higher in groups, this was said to be counterbalanced by higher supervision ratios and lower workers compensation premiums.

Many argued that the NDIA should revert to the original pricing arrangements for group supports, which allow providers to charge a packaged hourly fee to adequately cover the costs of the service.

Unfair Dismissal Cap Rises The caps for compensation and income in unfair dismissal claims have increased. The high-income threshold for unfair dismissal applications increases to $162,000, while the maximum compensation increases to $81,000 for any dismissal claims lodged from 1 July 2022. This means that the Fair Work Commission will not have jurisdiction to hear a claim for unfair dismissal made by any employee not covered by an award AND who earns more than $162,000. Given the increase in compensation available to employees, it is a good reminder for employers to ensure that their policies relating to the management of complaints and grievances are up to date and that transparent and fair procedures are adopted in managing underperforming employees or acts of misconduct.

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Inclusion Access Building Access Updates There is a change in the air which is going to affect many people with disabilities. This is for everybody as it refers to anybody renting or building a new home and will have implications for the entire residential construction industry.

From 1 September 2022, there are many improved accessibility features that need to be met when constructing a new home (including dual occupancies, townhouses, apartments, granny flats or any other form of housing. These features have been inspired by the Silver Level Liveable Housing Australia (LHA) Guidelines.

These features include: • Step-free access from the street and parking areas • Step-free entrance into the building • Internal doors and corridors needed to facilitate comfortable and unrestricted movement between all spaces

WhatsUp in Disability

• A toilet on the entry level providing easy access

Stories in this issue include:

• A bathroom with a hobless shower recess

• Josh Marshall

• Reinforced walls in toilet and shower that may support future installation of grabrails

• Inclusion Access

• Stairways that reduce likelihood of injury and enable future modification.

This significant alteration to the National Construction Code (NCC) is potentially the largest, most effective amendment ever imposed.

• Carers • Celebrating the Queen • New NDIS Minister • NDSP Bursary Program • Reforming Transport Standards

To obtain a copy of WhatsUp in Disability magazine or to be a sponsor, please contact WhatsUp via: Office

11-15 Alexander Street, Toowoomba

Email

admin@whatsupindisability.org

Online

www.whatsupindisability.org

• Workforce Australia • New character in Bluey

Steven Paull President

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Playing IT Safe is an early learning initiative, developed in partnership by the Australian Federal Police, the Alannah and Madeline Foundation and the eSafety Commissioner.

Share that photo!

We all have photos taken at home, at school, at parties and in the community. Who would you share photos with? You should always ask somebody’s permission before taking and sharing their photo Using Technology Establish rules around the usage of smart devices in and around the home.

How do you feel when you are on a screen for too long? Where should we not use phones?

Social Media This includes websites and apps that allow users to create and share content and participate in social networking. Risks include cyberbullying, invasion of privacy and identity theft.

Pop-ups While many pop-ups and emails from reputable companies are safe, the adware programs that generate illegitimate malware pop-ups and malware spam are capable of installing spyware to hijack your browser and capture your personal information.

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ThinkUKnow Australia is an evidence-based education program led by the Australian Federal Police (AFP), delivered nationally in partnership with police and industry partners to prevent online child sexual exploitation.

Sexual Extortion Sexual extortion, or sextortion, is a serious form of image-based abuse which can be in the form of online blackmail where a perpetrator threatens to reveal explicit images of a person unless they give in to their demands This is can be considered sexual abuse and exploitation material.

Online child sexual exploitation doesn’t happen in Australia. (FALSE)

Australian law enforcement continues to disrupt online child sex offender networks in Australia.

Children and young people are groomed online to produce child sexual exploitation material both overseas and locally. (TRUE)

There is no ‘quick fix’ when it comes to online safety.

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For some weeks now, we have been working with the Lions Club of Toowoomba West who are our next door neighbours and famous for their Queens Park Christmas Lights, to purchase their mobile BBQ and kitchen trailer to use for the Queens Park Markets.

BigDog Day Service Toowoomba Paul Myatt Community Centre 11-15 Alexander Street

For the past years we have utilised a BBQ trailer sponsored through Toowoomba KIA and we are so very grateful for their support over this time.

All proceeds from the BBQ go directly to the Paul Myatt Community Centre and our Centrebased Group activities.

North Toowoomba 4350 Coordinator Jess Wright

We also rely on our volunteers so come along

Phone: 4512 6020 dayservice@bigdogsupport.com.au 10

We are very excited to have the use of this unique mobile BBQ Buddy and the wonderful support of WhatsUp in Disability and the Lions’ members to ensure that the transfer occurred so easily and to everyone’s satisfaction. And that we have been trained in its use.

SEE YOU AT THE NEXT MARKETS!

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Aggressive Behaviour Training

Friday 26 August and Saturday 27 August This training is conducted by 2 previous members of the Australian Defense Force who were deployed overseas and is one of the best training sessions you will ever get to attend.

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ADF hand to hand combat training

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Combat Fitness leader

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Deployed Kuwait, Iraq and Afghanistan

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Trained foreign militaries

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Private overseas security

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Australian Federal Police

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Violence Prevention Coordinator

1st Aid Training

CapriCon Rockhampton has exploded in popularity to become regional Queensland’s largest single day pop culture convention.

Hosting guests from film, TV, comics, and cosplay, CapriCon is an event for all ages, providing a fun, inclusive and immersive event that people don’t just attend, they experience.

If you love pop-culture, you’ll love CapriCon. Book your tickets for Saturday 27 August held at New Exhibition Road, Wandal go to: https://www.capriconrockhampton.com.au/ Home Tickets are only available online. No tickets will be sold at the event.

General Admission (6 years+) $5 plus booking fee | Kids 5 and Under FREE. Companion cards are accepted.

BigDog Day Service Rockhampton BigDog Community Centre 170 East Street Rockhampton 4700 Lyn from Darling Downs First Aid will be conducting 2 sessions on Saturday 13 August.

Coordinator

Morning will be CPR and afternoon 1st Aid.

Phone: 4573 4611

BOOK NOW with Tyla as you need your USI

rockhampton@bigdogsupport.com.au

Trey Brown

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Footwear and safety at work What are the risks of wearing inappropriate shoes while on shift?

What can you do to minimise the risk?

Footwear which is suitable for support work means enclosed shoes, which are flat shoes or shoes with a minimal heel that have a good grip and fit well.

Depending on the activity, shoes may also need to be water resistant or non-porous to prevent or slow absorption or entry of materials e.g. chemicals or hot liquids.

Injuries to feet: • Fractures and bruises from being struck by objects, kicking objects or being stood on by someone • Crush injuries from objects falling or being dropped on to our feet

All BigDog staff need to assess their tasks for the day and chose footwear that is suitable for the activities they will be undertaking. Appropriate footwear for the following activities and environments should be carefully considered:

• Penetration wounds from sharp objects being stood on or dropping onto feet

• Community and outdoor activities

• Burns from chemical spills • Heat burns from hot liquids or solids

• Sporting activities including gym, bowling etc

• Soft tissue injuries from becoming unbalanced on irregular or soft surfaces.

• Uneven ground levels, sloping ground surfaces, loose ground surfaces

Injuries that can be sustained from slips, trips and falls:

• Potential for sudden changes of direction (e.g. in response to unpredictable behaviour)

• Sprains, strains, bruises and fractures – can range from minor to serious.

Other specific footwear

• A common contributing factor to slips, trips or falls is inappropriate footwear. Slippery soles, poorly secured shoes (e.g. thongs or ill-fitting sandals/scuffs), loose soles or laces, unstable heels or unsecured tongues can result in slip, trip and fall injuries.

Wearing safe, supportive and appropriate shoes is a good way of preventing falls and keeping feet healthy 12

• Wet environments

Appropriate safe footwear may also be identified as a requirement in relation to other areas or activities, documented procedure or a documented risk assessment.

For example, in client showering where floors can’t always be kept dry or clean, the right footwear is especially important, so a slip resistant shoe will be required.

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Exciting news in Toowoomba "Brady is getting a new friend! Steph, our Toowoomba Receptionist is due to go on maternity leave from 19 August.

While Steph is away, Tahnee will take over her role. Tahnee is currently learning all the tips and tricks to make this a smooth transition and will no doubt prove herself to be an integral part of the BigDog family. Please help us in welcoming Tahnee to the office team."

COVID-19 vaccine winter dose There is currently a surge of COVID-19 and influenza across Australia and it is important we do all that we can to protect those at greatest risk.

ATAGI has updated its recommendations for a COVID-19 vaccine winter dose to help reduce severe disease from the emerging surge of infections.

People who are eligible for a winter dose, including residents of disability accommodation services and people aged 16 years or older with disability and significant health needs, remain at higher risk of severe disease and death from COVID-19 and should receive a winter dose as soon as possible.

Staff Birthdays

August 2022 3rd 4th 5th 10th 11th 19th 25th 28th 31st

Nikyta C Natasha A Kayla C Jacinta G Phil Mc Tyla R Nicholas R Vivian D Luke Q Rhett A Tyreese J

Have a great day!

CareMaster Ready to go from Saturday 13 August.

Everyone should have been emailed their log in details and a link to watch the training via YouTube

• Please update your availability in CareMaster • Please update your likes and interests

Rockhampton Administration Tyla is currently learning her role in the Rockhampton Reception position as Courtney has been promoted to Rostering and is also learning her role. Please be considerate of theses changes as there is lots for them to learn.

GREAT PEOPLE, GREAT WORK, THANK YOU! 13

Homeless Week Expo Monday 1 August 11:00am—1:00pm Toowoomba Civic Square

Homeless for a Night Join Nat for his 1st night sleeping rough to raise awareness of homelessness and raise funds for the Basement Soup Kitchen to continue to provide support to people experiencing or at risk of homelessness. 100% of the funds raised will go towards providing lunchtime meals, swags, food packs, hygiene packs, and other essential services.

Back Cover L to R Monique, Leanne, Ann (holding Brady), Courtney, Steph, Jess, Tahnee and Billy

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Justice of the Peace This service is available at the Paul Myatt Community Centre 11-15 Alexander Street Toowoomba (please call first to make an appointment) The JPs in the Community Program is also available through major shopping centres, libraries, court houses and hospitals.

Contact Us BigDog Support Services

232 Ruthven Street Toowoomba QLD 4350 PO Box 234 Harlaxton QLD 4350

(07) 4632 9559 1800 22 44 32 www.bigdogsupport.com.au 15

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