WhatsUp in Disability Magazine Jul Aug 2023

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July / August 2023

Disability Information Services by People with Disability Queensland Australia

Volume 3, Issue 112

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Proudly supported and printed by ToowoombaWhatsUp Regional in Council Disability

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WhatsUp

Highlights May/June 2023

06 09 14 25 26 28

Queensland VET Strategy

Short Film Festival

The Report on Boarding Homes

Family of League

Special Olympics

Queensland Budget 2023-2024

Cover Page Matt Armstrong Armkeit Photo supplied by Matt Armstrong

Steven Paull JP (Qual) President Page 2

The Editor’s Desk Welcome to the 2023-2024 Financial Year and lots of changes...

Effective from 1st July 2023: Age Pension Age. If you were born on or after 1 January 1957, you must now be 67 years to be eligible for Age Pension.

Parental Leave Dad and Partner Pay are combining into one payment and increasing from 90 days (18 weeks) to 100 days (20 weeks) with a combined family income limit $350,000.

National Minimum Wage Increase to $882.80 per week or $23.23 per hour. This increase aims to ensure fair remuneration for employees across various industries and to support economic growth.

Award Minimum Wages In addition to the National Minimum Wage, award minimum wages have also been raised by 5.75% as part of the Annual Wage Review and aims to maintain equitable pay rates for employees covered by specific industry awards.

Superannuation (Super) Guarantee Rate from 10.5% to 11%. This means that employers are required to contribute a minimum of 11% of their employees' ordinary time earnings to their superannuation fund, helping individuals secure their financial future.

The Special Category Visa (SCV) all SCV holders will be permanent residents (for citizenship purposes only) so it will not affect eligibility for citizenship. If a New Zealand citizen enters Australia holding a permanent visa with a valid travel facility, they do not need an SCV upon entry into Australia. Any child born in Australia on or after 1 July 2022 to an SCV holder may automatically acquire Australian citizenship at birth.

Student Visa Holders work restrictions have been reinstated for student visa holders, limiting their work hours to 48 hours per fortnight. This adjustment aims to strike a balance, enabling students to prioritise their studies while also providing them with valuable work opportunities to contribute to Australia’s workforce requirements.

Rental Relief Queensland legislation limits rent increase frequency to once every 12 months.

Disaster Ready Fund (DRF) $1 billion over the next 5 years to improve Australia’s recovery and response capacity.

The Queensland Government 2023 Budget changes are summarised on page 28.

I hope our readers are positively effected by these changes.

Steven Paull JP (Qual) President

WhatsUp in Disability

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WhatsUp Matt and I worked together for over 5 years at Parent 2 Parent and I have a great admiration for Matt’s skills, particularly in the area of community engagement but also his ability to tell a story with his art.

The Art step was for me. Being a manager or a coordinator wasn’t the direction that I wanted to go into.”

Where did your journey into the Community sector begin?

“It was then that I decided that I wanted to go into the community development space, so I did some post-graduate study and research into PATH planning.”

“I started initially while I was studying back in ’92, when I was working with a few young people with disability exploring what community services were available for them.”

“I have been working at Parent 2 Parent for 11 years undertaking a diverse number of roles including ‘Your Service, Your Rights’, ‘Stand by Me’ facilitating PATH in Schools and supporting families in future planning.”

“When I finished my studies, I moved to Queensland where I got married and we had a family member with some special learning challenges, this was undiagnosed, so I went on a journey seeking some support in early intervention assistance.”

“I find that the PATH is a process that talks and acknowledges dreams, but is quite task orientated.”

What was this like for you?

“Yes, the dream may be to live independently, but there may be several goals along the way to make this happen. For example in the first year the goal may be to spend a few days away from home with a friend or with support. In the second year the goal would be for several events to happen.”

“It was very challenging period in seeking any diagnosis, but we had to advocate for our family member and some of that advocacy involved writing up 1-page profiles around the type of supports that my son needed from that early education period through primary school and that introduced me to the world of person-centred planning and how you can articulate the needs of your family member but also the needs of yourself.”

“Now our family member is thriving, he’s doing really, really well, he just takes a little bit longer to navigate around things as a young adult he has a good understanding of his ADHD.” How did your start in this sector?

“I started as a support worker and worked for 10 years with people with mental health challenges in their day-to-day life. It was very practical work at a grassroots level.”

“I started thinking about where the next Page 4

It is said that the difference between a dream and a goal is that the goal has a date.

“This helps so much in developing an NDIS Plan with specific goals and a timeline.”

So what about the future for Matt?

Well, I’m very happy continuing with the role I’m in. I have a healthy balance between P2P and my art.

“I currently work 4 days a week there and I’m able to work with art and mixed materials in my own studio on the other day. What started off as being a bit of a hobby has now turned into a bit of a direction for me and has also allowed me to undertake Community Art Workshops.”

What does the art workshop do?

Art Workshops are a form of expressive

t of Matt Armstrong

by Steven Paull

therapy that uses the creative process of making art to improve a person’s physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

The creative process involved in expressing one’s self artistically can help people to resolve issues as well as develop and manage their behaviours and feelings, reduce stress, and improve self-esteem and awareness.

It can help someone express themselves, explore their emotions, manage addictions, and improve their self-esteem.

How would you describe your art?

“My work connects to the beauty and simplicity of the quintessential Australian landscape informed by my early years in the Dubbo area of New South Wales.”

“Now living and working in Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, my paintings centre on various contemporary markmaking techniques; using brushwork, palette knife, rough charcoal, acrylic, and ink lines, to suggest landscape movements, patterns, changing light and shadows. In addition to my art centring on contemporary expression in landscapes, my mark-making has further morphed into surrealist seascapes, experimenting with chalk, pastels.”

“It has also included interpreting my ideas onto paper, lino prints and through clay work with ceramic tiles.”

Published Research Panning for Gold: The journey of mental health wellness and its relationship with Planning Alternatives Tomorrows with Hope (PATH) 2015 Journal of Social Inclusion (JoSI) Griffith University, Brisbane Australia.

Examples of Matt’s Art appear throughout this edition of WhatsUp. Ed

“Lyrical lines of a mountainPage walk” 5 WhatsUp in Disability

WhatsUp PATH Planning PATH is a creative planning tool that utilises graphic facilitation to collect information and develop positive future plans. PATH goes directly to the future and implements backwards planning to create a step by step path to a desirable future.

These tools were developed by Jack Pearpoint, Marsha Forest and John O’Brien to help marginalised people be included in society and to enable people to develop a shared vision for the future.

PATH can be used with individuals and their circle of support, families teams and organisations.

PATH is facilitated by two trained facilitators – one process facilitator who guides people through the stages and ensures that the person is at the centre and one graphic facilitator who develops a graphic record of the conversations taking place in the room.

The key outcomes of a PATH are:

• A shared vision within the group of a positive future for the pathfinder

• A commitment to invest in moving towards this future

• A sense of how to do this

rection and engage stakeholders.

Adrea says of the PATH, “Our team did an organisational PATH in late February. It was such a positive and productive two hours, where we got to the heart of who we are, what we do, and most importantly where we want to be! The PATH process got us back on track and within 6 months of doing it, we met our goals! “ And my very favourite PATH. Ed School students for planning further education, employment or training.

A Sunshine Coast High School wrote.

“Thank you so much for completing the PATH Planning process for a number of our students. The process was very helpful in guiding and oftentimes, reassuring families that they are on the right path. It was so beneficial to have external people who were able to look at the situation objectively and offer advice.”

“I appreciate the one-on-one support, and guidance/suggestions you were able to present to families/students, supports we did not even know were available to them. I saw each and every student leave with a smile on their face. “

William says of the PATH “P2P was very helpful and made me feel more confident about what will happen going forward in my life. It feels good to have a plan set out with goals to work towards instead of sitting around wondering what to do next.”

“Every time I'm feeling unsure or worried about what to do, I can now look at the plan that has been drawn out and know what I need to do, and what it is that I am working for as an end goal.”

The PATH is ideal for NDIS Participants as evidence for NDIS reviews and developing goals and strategies to reach those goals.

For businesses, it can set the strategic di-

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PATH Plans can be claimed through your NDIS Plan and are organised through P2P on path@p2pqld.org.au or 1800 777 723 or BigDog Support phone 46329559 or by email on reception@bigdogsupport.com.au

WhatsUp in Disability

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Short Film Festival

by NOVA Employment

For the 15th consecutive year NOVA Employment presents the Focus on Ability Short Film Festival (FOA). This festival asks film makers to "Focus on the Ability" of people with a disability and tell a story on film for the world to view.

The 2022 festival saw 281 finalists from across 19 countries.

The 2023 Focus on Ability Short Film Festival is set to be the biggest yet, and our generous sponsors have donated over $100,000 worth of cash and prizes to encourage film makers and people with disability to tell their stories.

To be a part of the festival, entrants must simply make a short film or documentary that is less than 5 minutes long, has a disability theme or has people with disability as the main actors. Entries close July 21, 2023.

tional and inspirational. Feedback from people who have viewed the films has shown that these entries have the power to change attitudes and challenge perceptions.

The audience capacity is well over 1,500,000 people and continuing to grow, providing unmatched exposure for up-andcoming film makers and for people with disability to bring their message to the world.

Films are judged by a professional judging panel and subject to an online voting process, with separate prizes for each category.

After a triumphant return to live events last year, FOA will be screening across even more locations in 2023.

In 2009, CEO of NOVA Employment Martin Wren began the festival with a belief in the ability of people with disability, and the goal of bringing that belief to the world through the medium of film. Martin recognised the power of film to challenge people's fixed beliefs and perceptions about the lives and abilities of people with disability around the world.

NOVA, together with Paula Duncan, known for both her success in the Australian film and television industry and passion for supporting people with disability, have worked tirelessly to bring this festival to the world.

The Focus on Ability Film Festival is for people of all talent levels with many first-time film makers taking out major prizes.

Previous years films have been both educa-

Paula Duncan For full festival details and to view the over 2,500 films from years past head to www.focusonability.com.au.

WhatsUp in Disability

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WhatsUp NDIS NEWS There’s been some key pricing changes that are effective 1 July 2023. First, the good news. Price limits for supports delivered by disability support workers will see a realterms increase of 5.3% to account for:

• The Fair Work Commission’s increase to minimum Award wages by 5.75%. The NDIA has fully covered this wage increase to workers employed under the Award, meaning providers don’t need to cover it themselves. This change will also come into effect for level 1 support coordination (support connection).

• An extension of the temporary loading for a further 12 months at 1%. The downside is that it’s been halved from last year (previously 2%) and will cease on 1 July 2024.

• Inclusion of paid family and domestic violence leave of 0.1% to reflect the new National Employment Standards entitlements for workers.

• Passing

on superannuation 0.5% in full.

the increase guarantee charge

in of

Overall this is positive, as it could have been worse in the context of many conversations about 8% growth cap / target / framework / [insert another murky synonym here].

Therapy Supports The NDIA has stated after “extensive market analysis and consultation”, there will be no adjustment to the pricing arrangements and price limits for therapy supports on 1 July 2023.

The party line is that the market for therapy continues to attract new providers entering the market. The Agency says results from

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extensive benchmarking analysis suggest the current NDIS price limit of $193.99 is above the average fully loaded hourly cost of most types of therapy professionals. This may not reflect the experience of participants on the ground, who often struggle to find allied health and therapy services. Or the therapists that choose to remain unregistered because the NDIA price cap doesn’t cover the costs of being registered.

The NDIA’s comparison to other government therapy schemes and private billing rates suggest that NDIS price limits for therapies remain competitive. The Agency also says they have invested significantly in the therapy market, with the amount claimed rising by 26% to $1.6 billion July-December 2022, compared to the same period in the year prior.

Support Coordination and Plan Management Supports Level 1 support connection will be indexed in line with the NDIS DSW Cost Model. We often say not many people access support connection, and the Pricing Review confirmed that only 777 participants used support connection in the 6 months prior to December 2022 compared to more than 200,000 participants using support coordination (level 2).

After “careful market analysis and consultation” - that phrase again - there will be no adjustment to the pricing for support coordination level 2 and 3 (that’s support coordination and specialist support coordination), or for plan management. This will be disappointing to many providers and sole traders who are seeing the complexity of their role grow.

Pricing 2023-2024

By Rob Woolley DSC

The NDIA says it invested significantly in the markets for support coordination (the amount claimed rose by 15% to $428 million) and plan management (where the amount claimed rose by 14% to $228 million) over the six months leading to December 2022, compared to the same period the year prior.

One of the great unknowns of this pricing update: what is the NDIA saying about the future and role of level 1 support connection by increasing its price, but not levels 2 and 3? The service and business models of many support coordination providers cannot work with level 1. We await further information about the larger intent of this move, either from the NDIA themselves (who have said they see merits in establishing cost models for level 2 and 3 supports) or the NDIS Review.

Disability Intermediaries Australia (DIA) stated that this is the 4th consecutive price cut in real terms for plan management and support coordination - grim reading for those who are already grappling with moving goalposts, wage inflation, and increased business costs.

What is a concern is the uncertainty of the future of the intermediaries markets: an increase in the price for support connection but another year of no increase to support coordination, specialist support coordination and plan management will push many of those providers closer to the edge.

A consistent growth in a market doesn’t necessarily mean many service providers aren’t skating on increasingly thinner ice.

The final report and recommendations from the NDIS Review may cast more light on what is in store.

Group Supports It’s finally here! The document that group service providers have been waiting for has landed. But before you read the ‘GroupBased Supports Transition Guidance’, I’ve got bad news: it’s posed more questions than provided answers. For the last few years providers have been working only off the general rules in the Pricing Arrangements, and we had black, white and a bit of grey. This new guidance has given us 50 Shades of Grey except this is more painful for everyone involved (and this time not in the fun way).

A quick recap for those who haven’t been following this closely: in June 2020 the NDIA announced a fundamental change in the way group services (specifically Group & Centre Based Activities) were structured and billed.

The deadline for this change was pushed back, then back again, then back again. In December last year the sector was promised a Transition Handbook to guide providers through the practicalities of the changes.

This handbook has just been released.

The handbook was heralded as; supporting providers to understand the new pricing mode, would work in practice, and be able to be implemented. We’ve digested it and, frankly, we now have more questions and concerns than answers. If you weren’t sure whether a single sentence could be both clarifying and confusing, no need to wonder any more. It is #confusifying #clarifusing

Newspaper Media Campaign The Chronicle and NewsCorp is launching a new NDIS accountability campaign, to examine abuse, neglect and inequity within the system.

‘Mount Triborgargan’ Glasshouse Mountains Sunshine Coast hinterland.

WhatsUp in Disability

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Support Worker Cars

By Our Insurance Consultant

the company has limited control and visibility over their driving habits, adherence to traffic regulations, and overall safety. This can make it challenging to enforce company policies and ensure that support workers are driving responsibly.

Mileage Reimbursement Costs Allowing support workers to use their own cars for work purposes can have both benefits and risks for the company.

Here are some potential risks associated with support workers using their own cars:

Insurance and Liability When support workers use their personal vehicles for work, it can create insurance and liability issues. In case of an accident, determining responsibility and insurance coverage can become complicated. The company may also be held liable for any damages caused by the support worker during work-related travel.

Vehicle Maintenance and Reliability Support workers may not properly maintain their vehicles or keep them in good condition, which can lead to breakdowns or accidents. This could result in delays, missed appointments, or disruptions to business operations.

Inconsistent Branding and Image If support workers are representing the company while using their own vehicles, there may be inconsistencies in branding and image. The company may have less control over the appearance and condition of the vehicles, which can impact the professional image and brand perception.

Lack of Control and Monitoring When support workers use their own cars,

If the company offers mileage reimbursement to support workers using their own cars, it can become a significant expense. The reimbursement rates may vary depending on local regulations, and calculating and managing reimbursements can be time-consuming for the company.

Increased Administrative Burden Managing a fleet of company-owned vehicles typically involves tracking maintenance, registration, insurance, and other administrative tasks. When support workers use their own cars, the administrative burden may increase as the company needs to verify insurance coverage, track mileage, and handle reimbursements.

Data Privacy and Security If support workers use their personal vehicles for work-related activities that involve sensitive data or equipment, there can be a risk of data breaches, theft, or loss.

Personal vehicles may not have the same security measures in place as companyowned vehicles, making them more vulnerable.

To mitigate these risks, companies can implement policies and procedures to address vehicle use, insurance requirements, safety standards, and data protection. Additionally, offering companyowned vehicles or alternative transportation options, such as carpooling or rental services, may be viable alternatives to minimize some of these risks.

WhatsUp in Disability

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WhatsUp People with high-value National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) plans are being "kidnapped" and having their funding drained by providers that are supposed to help them live better lives, a bombshell report says.

The interim report also says people with disability who live in supported residential services (SRS) in Victoria are being "coaxed" into changing accommodation and service providers "through offers of fast-food 'treats' like KFC and McDonalds".

The government-commissioned report was produced by the Melbourne-based Mental Health Legal Centre (MHLC).

It found people with disability in Victorian SRSs – historically known as boarding houses – have been financially abused, neglected and manipulated by providers.

"Currently companies can collect residents, take them to undisclosed locations and siphon the funding from their packages," it says.

NDIS Minister Bill Shorten said the report came about after meetings with whistleblowers, and he suspected similar abuses were happening across the country.

"The NDIS is here to stay. It's changing people's lives," he told reporters in Melbourne.

"But there is no doubt that in the last number of years, the neglect and oversight of the system has seen vulnerable people with lucrative support packages fall through the cracks, and effectively be human trafficked."

Mr Shorten said the federal government had referred more than 50 providers to the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA),

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The Report which runs the NDIS, as well as the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission and the Fraud Fusion Taskforce.

SRSs are privately run operations that provide supported accommodation to older people and those living with disability.

Of the 4,000 people living in SRSs across Victoria, an estimated 1,600 are NDIS participants.

The majority live with psychosocial and intellectual disabilities.

MHLC general manager Charlotte Jones said she was aware of around 70 people having been "kidnapped" across the SRS system.

"As a number of SRS facilities were closed, residents either disappeared … or were taken from facilities, often at night, and deposited into alternative accommodation," she said.

"Some have ended up in hospital, some were back at the SRS, and some have ended up back at other SRSs. "We don't believe that they understanding where they're going."

go

The report's findings include:

• People with complex needs and limited family support "have become a target" for unscrupulous providers — "they have become a … valuable and disposable commodity"

• Illegitimate

and "vaguely worded" invoices are being used to "bump up income revenue for accommodation providers"

• There is a "growing trend of predatory companies utilising Supported Independent Living (SIL) resources to increase their income revenue", including

t on Boarding Homes

By Evan Young and Nas Campanella

some that "collect residents, take them to undisclosed locations and siphon the funding from their packages"

"‘Choice and control’ for people living with psychosocial disabilities in [SRSs] is only theoretical," it says.

• Both registered and unregistered NDIS

"The current system enables, and in many cases facilitates and financially rewards, exploitative and coercive practices.

providers are "draining vulnerable NDIS participants' packages" with insufficient safeguards — "we have evidence of blind people 'signing forms' and illiterate people 'composing and sending emails'"

• Fast food and cigarettes are used to bribe residents to change providers, or make them feel "like they have colluded with overcharging for services" so they don't complain.

• Inappropriate, uncomfortable and unsafe accommodation is being provided at some SRSs, without proper monitoring — "we have reports of wheelchair users being left in rooms that cannot accommodate their chair restricting all freedom of movement, including exiting their room".

• Some

accommodation providers are holding residents' bank cards on the guise of protecting them from financial exploitation — "we have reports of funds being withdrawn unauthorised from resident accounts".

Ms Jones said she was shocked by the report's findings.

"I couldn't actually understand that people saw other people as human cargo for money," she said.

The report says there is "a strong profit motive to work with people living with disability without the necessary regulation to ensure protection from predatory business practices".

"These practices include limiting access to supports, neglect, emotional manipulation, bribery, financial abuse and kidnapping."

El Gibbs, director of policy and advocacy at Disability Advocacy Network Australia, said the report's findings were unsurprising.

"People with disability and their advocates have been raising issues with substandard housing for many years," she said.

"This abuse and exploitation of people with disability must stop, and it must stop now."

Ms Gibbs said that only last year, people with lived experience and their advocates told the disability royal commission about appalling rates of violence and abuse in these settings.

"Urgent action is needed from the NDIS, but also from state and territory governments, to make sure people with disability have a decent place to live, free from violence and abuse."

Ms Jones said she believed there would be "many more" people living in SRSs that were being exploited "we don't know about yet".

"Most people have them in their neighbourhoods … but people just don't see the residents," she said.

"And then it's really easy for them to be gone, and nobody's asking any questions."

‘Macquarie River’ off shoot creek bed, acrylic on canvas Page 15 WhatsUp in Disability

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10.00 am every Saturday $20 per session 3 games Sports Registration $52 (membership) Glenda (07) 4614 1136 Kathy (07) 4630 5221 Page 16

Knee Surgery

by Steven Paull

So I now find myself in the position where I am unable to walk due to the pain and now having to use a cane to walk.

My doctor has referred me to a specialist to prepare for an operation to help me. I did a little research through Dr Google and talking to some friends who have had the procedure.

When a knee replacement, also known as knee arthroplasty, is performed, the damaged or diseased parts of the knee joint are replaced with artificial components. The procedure is typically recommended for individuals who have severe knee pain and limited mobility due to conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or knee injury.

Here is a general overview of what happens during a knee replacement procedure: Anaesthesia: The patient is administered anaesthesia, which can be either general anaesthesia (puts the patient to sleep) or regional anaesthesia (numbs the lower body).

Incision: The surgeon makes an incision in the front of the knee to access the joint.

Reshaping the Bones: The damaged surfaces of the thigh bone (femur) and shin bone (tibia) are precisely cut and reshaped using surgical instruments to accommodate the artificial components.

Placement of Artificial Components: The artificial components are inserted into the prepared bone surfaces. The most common type of knee replacement involves three components: a metal component for the end of the thigh bone, a metal and plastic component for the top of the shin bone, and a plastic spacer to provide a smooth gliding surface between the metal components.

Closure: The incision is closed using stitches or staples, and a sterile dressing is applied.

Postoperative Care: After the surgery, the patient is taken to a recovery area and closely monitored. Pain management, physical therapy, and exercises to regain strength and range of motion are typically part of the postoperative care plan.

The specific details of the surgery can vary depending on factors such as the patient's condition, the surgeon's technique, and the type of knee replacement being performed (e.g., total knee replacement, partial knee replacement). It's important to consult with a qualified orthopaedic surgeon for personalised information and guidance regarding knee replacement surgery.

4 signs that you may need a knee replacement Swollen Knees: Your knees are always swollen or puffy, despite taking antiinflammatories, attending physical therapy, and/or icing your knee.

Deformed Knees: Severe arthritis and cartilage deterioration can lead to your knees appearing bowed or “Knock-Kneed”.

Limited Range of Motion: You are no longer able to straighten your leg or notice distinct changes in your walk, such as a persistent limp or inability to walk up stairs.

Constant or severe pain: When resting.

WhatsUp in Disability

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WhatsUp Support Worker sentenced after defrauding clients Matt Gazy Hornsby Advocate A support worker on Sydney’s northern beaches defrauded thousands of dollars from vulnerable disabled clients he was entrusted to care for. In court, his solicitor described him as “broken”.

A community support worker entrusted to care for people with intellectual disabilities defrauded thousands of dollars from them while helping them withdraw money and make crucial purchases, a court has heard.

Richard Farrell, 32, pleaded guilty to dishonestly obtaining a financial advantage by deception and faced Hornsby Local Court.

Facts state in October 2019, Farrell was provided Westpac bank cards to help disabled people withdraw and make crucial purchases, such as medication, as part of his employment with Sunnyfield Intellectual Disability Support Services in Frenchs Forest.

Fraud Prosecutor Denise Vavayis said Farrell had abused his “position of power”, taking advantage of his position with particularly vulnerable victims.

The court heard Farrell had suffered after a break up and began turning to alcohol when the offending occurred.

Magistrate Alexander Mijovich said it was a conscious decision and spanned over a period of time. “He knew well what he was doing,” Mr Mijovich said.

The court heard Farrell also suffered poor mental health. Solicitor Ms Nelson said the drinking did not cause the behaviour, but instead motivated it.

“He was taking money to fuel his alcoholism,” Ms Nelson said.

Ms Nelson said Farrell was “one of the most broken clients” she had represented in her career.

“He needs treatment – locking him up won’t fix the problem,” Ms Nelson said.

Part of his role was to record expenditures on a spreadsheet.

Ms Nelson said Farrell’s alcoholism acted as a coping mechanism.

In June 2021, Farrell quit and returned the bank cards – and his replacement soon found the spreadsheets had not been updated and a total of $5012.15 was left unaccounted for.

“He’s had some trauma and spiralled down,” she said.

On three occasions, Farrell had the chance to attend a meeting to return the money, but he did not appear on any occasion.

“He’s remorseful and embarrassed about it but feels better since he got help,” Ms Nelson said.

This led the manager at Sunnyfield Intellectual Disability Support Services to report the matter to police.

Mr Mijovich said Farrell had breached a level of trust in the community.

According to facts, the St Ives man made 9 transactions for the 5 victims at various ATMs across Sydney.

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The court heard Farrell started taking money following his break-up, but “never thought it would get to the stage it did”.

“People funding charities are now out of pocket,” Mr Mijovich said.

Farrell’s criminal history consisted of alcohol matters but nothing of a similar nature.

Being on the Spectrum

By Steven Paull

Being "on the spectrum" typically refers to being on the autism spectrum or having an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The autism spectrum is a range of neurodevelopmental conditions characterized by challenges in social interaction, communication difficulties, and repetitive behaviours or restricted interests. It is called a spectrum because the symptoms and severity can vary greatly from person to person.

have a wide range of abilities, strengths, and challenges. Some may have difficulty with social interactions, interpreting nonverbal cues, or understanding social norms, while others may have exceptional skills in specific areas such as mathematics, music, or art.

Autism Spectrum Disorder includes different diagnoses that were previously considered separate conditions, such as autistic disorder, Asperger's syndrome, and pervasive developmental disorder. However, with the release of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) in 2013, these diagnoses were consolidated under the umbrella term "Autism Spectrum Disorder."

It is important to note that autism is a lifelong condition, and individuals on the spectrum can lead fulfilling lives with the right support, understanding, and accommodations.

Sensory sensitivities and repetitive behaviours are also common traits among individuals on the spectrum.

The term "on the spectrum" is used to emphasize the diversity and variability of experiences and characteristics within the autism spectrum.

Individuals on the autism spectrum can

‘Bribie Island’ Page 19

WhatsUp in Disability

WhatsUp

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Community

New Album Jungle 2

by Denise Kimber

Aiden (guitar, drums), Cameron (keyboard) and Denise (Guitar, vocals) form the Denise Kimber Band and they have just released their 2nd album titled Jungle 2 which follows their previous album from 2010—Jungle 1.

The album includes 5 original songs.

1. Aretha (Franklin) 2. Julia—A young woman’s journey 3. Anna Natshita 4. I Love You Baby—Relationships 5. Epic—A story of Bi-Polar Recorded and produced by local company Dolphin Music and available through FM102.7 or WhatsUp for $30.

WhatsUp in Disability

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WhatsUp A cyclist will attempt to ride solo across the maximum width of Australia in 65 days in a bid to break a world record and raise money for people with spinal cord injury.

Andrew Kerec plans to ride his mountain bike from the westernmost point to the easternmost point of Australia - a total of about 5500km.

The 54-year-old's adventure is set to start on June 27 from Steep Point near Shark Bay in Western Australia and take him through the sand dunes of the Simpson Desert before arriving in Byron Bay on August 28.

"It's going to be a tough ride that's for sure," he said in lead-up to his arduous journey.

Australian injury while cycling and is quadriplegic, with no movement or function below his chest.

"He was out training for an Ironman event and in the blink of an eye everything changed (when) he was hit by another cyclist," Mr Kerec said.

"His helmet strap had become caught up on

something in the collision and caused a dislocation of his spine around the C5/C6 vertebrae."

Mr Kerec will attempt to beat the current record set in 2021 for the massive ride which is 83 days, 21 hours and 27 minutes.

"But spinal cord injury is something very close and personal to me, my family and friends because of Dad."

He's called the journey the Spine Tingling Ride and hopes to raise at least $200,000 for people with disabilities and medical research for those with spinal cord injury, their families and carers.

Mr Kerec's father Ludvig suffered a spinal

The donations will be split equally between

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Charity Ride

By Aaron Bunch AAP

Hartley Lifecare and SpinalCure Australia.

Local Legend Tony Wigan

Kathryn Borkovic, SpinalCure Australia's chief executive, hopes the ride will encourage people with spinal cord injury to enrol in Project Spark clinical trials that are taking place now.

Tony is a local legend who hosts his own talk show twice a week on Toowoomba’s 102.7 FM radio.

"Not only could he set a new record (but) he will also raise awareness and donations for Project Spark, a series of neurostimulation clinical trials under way in Australia that SpinalCure is funding," she said.

Neurostimulation is the world's most promising experimental therapy for acute spinal cord injury and could be developed in a short time frame.

"These trials are the first step in taking the groundbreaking treatment out of the lab and into the lives of people living with a spinal injury," Ms Borkovic said.

Mr Kerec completed a similar challenge in 2017 when he rode his mountain bike 5551km from his hometown Canberra to Humpty Doo in the Northern Territory, raising $130,000.

With 30 years hospitality experience, Tony owned the café, Rendezvous on Ruthven until 2019. He has always been vocal about his love for his community, telling The Chronicle, “There are a lot of talented people in Toowoomba, and we should be using them.”

Since beginning his radio career on Colour Radio 4LG in Longreach when he finished high school, Tony has worked with various radio stations across Queensland including Brisbane 4IP, 4LM and 4WK. Tony is a big supporter of WhatsUp in Disability and has been the MC for a number of our community events as well as producing our community announcements.

After he reaches Byron Bay, Mr Kerec plans to continue riding south to Canberra, making his total journey 6820km in 80 days.

His father will join him on the final stretch on September 11 using a hand cycle, along with a large group of friends, family and supporters on their bikes.

There are over 20,000 people in Australia with spinal cord injury, with no current treatment available to mitigate the devastating impact on their lives and their loved ones.

The record attempt has been registered with the Road Record Association of Australia.

‘Solitude’ Page 23

WhatsUp in Disability

Warrina Services is a specialist support agency that has been providing individual support to people of the Darling Downs since 1986. We support people with a diverse range of needs and also provide mental health services to assist personal recovery.

(07) 4659 5662

We can help you to achieve positive outcomes in your life.

These may be related to choice and independence, education or training, attending social activities, increasing skills, getting a job or contributing to your community.

If you would like further information please visit our website

www.warrinaservices.org.au Or contact us Phone: 07-46 380 399 Email: warrinas@warrinas.com.au or visit our office at

172 Bridge Street Toowoomba Office hours Mon-Fri 9-5pm

Page 24

Rugby League raised through a combination of grants, sponsorships, membership fees, public donations and fundraising initiatives.

Since the first meeting at New South Wales Leagues Club, the Family of League has grown to a network of more than 6,500 members and volunteers, who come together for the game, and for each other.

Whether you are an ex-player, an administrator, referee, or club volunteer; whether you are a man, woman or child, Family of League protects and enhances lives while respecting each individual’s dignity.

Family of League exists to ensure those most in need in the rugby league community can access financial, social and emotional support. Our foundation is the charitable heart of rugby league, proudly caring for the everyday heroes who keep our game thriving at the grassroots.

First established as Men of League by rugby league greats Ron Coote, Jim Hall and Max Brown in 2002, Family of League is built on this same foundation of teamwork and giving back. Our independent grassroots organisation was created to offer a helping hand and a shoulder to lean on for those doing it tough within the rugby league community.

For 20 plus years, we have been providing over 10,000 hours of volunteer service and $10 million of financial support to those in need. Funds for our wellbeing initiatives are

The Foundation provides assistance with everything from surgery, rehabilitation, equipment and specialist care to wellbeing visits to homes and hospitals to address social isolation and promote mental health.

Our 39 dedicated volunteer committees across New South Wales, Queensland, Australian Capital Territory and Victoria are run by, and for, the rugby league community supported by our small team of dedicated staff in our Sydney and Brisbane offices.

Family of League welcomes all who share a passion for the game. Whether you’re a fan, member, donor, partner, or sponsor there is space at our table for all who love the game of rugby league.

The vision was to build a foundation that provided practical assistance and social support, and this vision has been realised. https://familyofleague.org.au/

WhatsUp in Disability

Page 25

WhatsUp With a brilliant fireworks display in the Berlin summer sky and the extinguishing of the flame, the Special Olympics World Games Berlin 2023 came to a glorious close on 25 June 2023. It was the end of the Games, but by no means the finale in terms of what needs to be done for inclusion.

Australia's athletes have won 13 gold medals at the Special Olympics World Games in Germany.

The Games, the world's largest inclusive sporting event, finished in Berlin on Sunday night, with a spectacular closing ceremony at the Brandenburg Gate.

The event saw 7,000 athletes with intellectual disabilities from 190 different delegations competing across 26 sports.

The Australian team of 64 athletes competed in nine different sports: basketball, bocce, bowling, equestrian, golf, gymnastics, swimming, tennis and athletics.

Brisbane golfer Natascha Tennent won gold in the 18-hole event. The 16-year-old told ABC her schedule before the Games involved training four times during the week plus during weekends and at competitions.

"It was just absolutely amazing to come over here, meet people from other countries, experience different cultures and come away from playing golf in a country where everything's completely different," Tennent said.

"The course itself was definitely quite difficult. The rough was sometimes up to my knees and sometimes even up to my chest.

Not the easiest thing to hit out of when you got into it.

"But there were also a lot of bunkers.

Luckily, I practised a lot of those."

The other members of the golf team —

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Anders Kobula, Amanda Patterson, Kane Leonard, Dylan Price and Matt Curley — all won medals on the final day of competition.

Australia's head of delegations, Susie Bennett, said that being in Germany with the athletes was a great experience.

"We have a team of young first-timers," she said. "[For] about 90% of the athletes in this team, this is their first World Games. So their excitement is obviously contagious.

"I think the highlight for me was … most of Team Australia medalled, but almost every athlete on the team has achieved a personal best.

"That's a highlight for us because to come this far and achieve their personal best on the world stage is fantastic."

Australia was also very successful in gymnastics, with the six members of the team finishing the competition with 21 medals, including six gold.

Level-four competitor Chris Bunton, from NSW, won gold medals on pommel, rings and high bar, plus silver in another four events including the ‘all around’.

Victorian level-two competitor Sophie Nichols won three medals including two gold on floor and all around, while Queenslander Elizabeth Hocart (level three) won a gold on floor and two bronze.

In equestrian, level B (I) Queensland riders Isabella Parisi and Karen Messmer took gold and silver respectively in the dressage competition.

Australia's first gold medal win went to Michael Wheatley and Robert Goodrem, who claimed victory in the men's doubles tenpin bowling.

Victorian athlete Chelsea Haag-Witherden won gold in shot-put, after a fifth place in javelin.

In total, Australia won 45 medals, including 13 gold, 16 silver and 16 bronze.

The host for the next Special Olympics World Games in 2027 will be decided in November.

Australia has announced it will bid to host the Games in Perth. If successful, it would be the first time the Games have been held in the southern hemisphere.

Below: Chris Bunton (left) and Kaylen McDonald (right) were part of the Australian gymnastics team that won 21 medals.

WhatsUp in Disability

‘Hidden’ Page 27

WhatsUp With exceptionally high coal prices, the government is re-investing those earnings in sectors that benefit all Queenslanders, including a significant 9.6% increase in health spending, more social and affordable housing, renewable energy, storage and network infrastructure, securing land for new school sites and support for communities to secure their property and develop local solutions to youth crime issues.

Cost of Living Rebate $700 Cost of Living Rebate on electricity bills for vulnerable households, plus a further $372 under the Queensland Electricity Rebate Scheme to $1,072 $550 Cost of Living Rebate on electricity bills for all other Queensland households.

Health Services $2.9 billion uplift to improve ambulance responsiveness and reducing ramping, improving access to emergency departments, surgery and specialist clinics, boosting women’s health care and mental health support.

Opening of all 7 Satellite Hospitals in 2023–24 to provide non-urgent health care services in the community. $586.1 million towards a new 10-year agreement with LifeFlight Australia to deliver emergency. helicopter services.

Up to $70,000 for medical practitioners and $20,000 for health care workers to relocate to Queensland.

Alleviating housing pressures $1.1 billion in increased funding to drive social housing delivery and supply $250 million for housing and homeless support services.

Built-to-rent tax concessions for eligible developments providing affordable dwellings at discounted rents.

Doubling the Housing Investment Fund to $2 billion, to support commencements of 5,600 social and affordable homes by 30 June 2027.

A Safer Community $96 million for Youth Co-responder Teams who engage with young people to break the cycle of youth crime. $64 million for policing responses including high visibility patrols and specialist youth crime rapid response squads. $30 million to help seniors secure their homes and $15 million to empower communities to develop local solutions to youth crime issues.

Increasing capacity at youth detention centres.

Page 28

Services Australia Disability Worker COVID-19 Leave Grant

Check if you need to lodge a tax return

On 9 May 2023, the Australian Government announced the Disability Worker COVID-19 Leave Grant to support disability workers who deliver close personal support to NDIS participants, contract COVID-19 and have insufficient sick leave available to them.

If you get a Centrelink payment or pay or receive Child Support, you should check if you need to lodge a tax return.

NDIS providers that pay eligible staff leave when they have a COVID-19 infection and insufficient sick leave, will be reimbursed at a rate of $450 per worker where the worker has lost at least eight hours but less than 20 hours of work, and $750 per worker where the worker has lost more than 20 hours of work. Eligibility will include registered and unregistered NDIS providers and sole traders who deliver specified close personal supports to participants.

The grant will provide support towards the costs associated with leave from 1 April 2023 to 31 December 2023. Affected workers should retain evidence of their illness.

The Disability Worker COVID-19 Leave Grant replaces the High-Risk Settings Pandemic Payment and matches funding available to aged care workers.

It is important to remain alert to the continued risk of COVID-19 in the community. This grant has been designed to protect those most at-risk, but there are many ways to help ensure the safety of others, including staying home when unwell, ensuring adequate ventilation in indoor spaces, and practicing COVID-safe behaviours.

For more information, go to www.dss.gov.au/ covidleavegrant

If you’re registered to pay or receive child support, you need to lodge a tax return. If your partner has a child support assessment, they need to lodge one too.

The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) has a tool on their website to help you decide if you need to lodge a tax return. From 1 July 2023, check if you need to lodge a tax return this year using the ATO’s Do I need to lodge a tax return? tool.

Your tax return information will pre-fill by late July Once all your information pre-fills in myTax, you won’t need to get a Centrelink Payment Summary to lodge your tax return.

Get your Medicare Entitlement Statement online If you need a Medicare Entitlement Statement (MES) at tax time to claim the Medicare levy exemption, you can apply online.

You can apply for a MES using the online MES dashboard through your myGov account.

To access the MES dashboard, you’ll need to link the Individual Healthcare Identifiers (IHI) service to your myGov account.

You can use your MES dashboard to:

• apply for a statement • track your application

Age Pension age is changing on 1 July

• upload documents, if required

If you were born on or after 1 January 1957, you must be 67 years to be eligible for Age Pension.

• download and print statements.

You can submit your claim in the 13 weeks before you reach Age Pension age.

When there’s an update in your MES dashboard, you get either an SMS, email or letter in the post.

‘Moreton Bay’ Acrylic on Page paper 29 WhatsUp in Disability

WhatsUp in July

Page 30

WhatsUp in August

To spread the word about your next event contact WhatsUp on (07) 4632 9559 or email spaull@bigdogsupport.com.au WhatsUp in Disability

Page 31

WhatsUp mycommunity www.mycommunitydirectory.com.au

With Sarah Rossiter CBD Parking Fee Increases An increase in the cost of on and off-street parking in the city’s CBD has taken effect 1 July, with Toowoomba Regional Council asking shoppers and workers to pay more.

“This is the first parking fee increase in two years and this is the minimum we could raise rates and still keep pace with our costs for maintenance, upgrading equipment and improving payment options,” he said.

Town Crier Kevin Howarth wins Australian title Toowoomba Region Town Crier Kevin Howarth has added the title of Australian champion to his award list following a successful outing at Saturday’s (July 1, 2023) national Town Crier Championships at Maryborough in Queensland.

Mr Howarth also won the Loudest Cry at the championships with an ear-piercing Cry that was recorded at more than 96 decibels, a little below his regular 100 decibel-plus range, but loud enough to drown out a chainsaw.

Mr Howarth’s success in the Champion of Champions event atoned for his second place in the same event at the 2022 championships hosted by Central Coast Council in New South Wales and in 2018 at EchucaMoama.

Toowoomba Region Mayor Paul Antonio congratulated Mr Howarth for his performances at the national championships of the Ancient and Honourable Guild of Australian Town Criers that were held in conjunction with the Mary Poppins festival.

Page 32

“Kevin is passionate about representing our Region and has performed with distinction at many competitions,” Mayor Antonio said.

“He is a fine ambassador for our Region and has left another lasting impression on the national stage. I’m especially pleased that he has won the Australian Champion of Champions title after coming so close in recent years.”

WhatsUp

New to Disability?

First Points of Contact Centrelink Payments and Services

132 468

Carers

132 717

Disability Support Pension

132 717

Health Care Card

132 490

Family Assistance

136 150

Indigenous Call Centre

1800 136 380

Emergency Crisis Payment

132 850

NDIS General Enquiries

1800 800 110

NDIA Toowoomba Office

07 4592 4057

Local Area Coordinator

07 4646 2800

Medicare General Enquiries

132 011

Pharmaceutical Benefits

132 290

MyGov Help Desk

132 307

Queensland Government Child Safety

07 4699 4255

Toowoomba Hospital

07 4616 6000

Department Housing

07 4699 4400

Community Groups

Toowoomba Disability Information Office Open Monday to Friday (9:00am to 3.00pm) A question on disability or a service you require? Try us, most of our volunteers have a disability themselves and will be glad to assist you. If we can’t help, we will refer you elsewhere. JP services are also available

Carer Gateway

1800 422 737

Lifeline Darling Downs

1300 991 443

Relationships Australia

1300 364 277

The Good Samaritan Op Shop Bowen Street There are a number of support groups for most disabilities available in this region.

Contact WhatsUp in Disability Phone: 07 4632 9559 Email: spaull@bigdogsupport.com.au

11-15 Alexander Street Toowoomba (07) 4632 9559 A volunteer disability service organisation run by people with a disability

WhatsUp in Disability

Page 33

WhatsUp Executive Team

PUBLISHER: Disability Media Association Inc (Australia) (DMAA) TELEPHONE: (07) 4632 9559 OFFICE:

Paul Myatt Community Centre 11-15 Alexander Street Toowoomba (open Monday to Friday 9:00am-3:00 pm)

POSTAL ADDRESS: PO Box 3621 Toowoomba QLD 4350 E-MAIL: spaull@bigdogsupport.com.au MANAGEMENT BOARD: Steven Paull (President) Courtney Carroll (Editor) Jess Wright (Secretary) Ann Paull (Treasurer) CONTRIBUTORS: Bronwyn Herbertson, Sharon Boyce, Aidan Wilcock, Dean Gill, Jess Wright, Steven Paull and many others.

PUBLISHED January/March/May/July/September/November ABN: 72 821 350 911 PRINT POST APPROVED: PP 424022/ 1811

STEVEN PAULL President

DISCLAIMER/INDEMNITY Articles and adverts reproduced on these pages are accepted and published in good faith. It is a condition of acceptance that advertisers and article writers accept full responsibility for their advertisements and articles, and will fully indemnify the producers in the event of any claims or legal proceedings against them. Articles published are not necessarily the view of the publishers. Advertisements are also accepted on the basis that they do not conflict with any discrimination laws or other laws currently in force.

ADVERTISING

COURTNEY CARROLL Editor

Although we are a volunteer and non profit organisation, we are not funded in any way, and have to cover costs of this publication by charging for advertising.

WhatsUp reserves the right to adjust, resize or move advertisements when necessary to allow for editing WhatsUp IS AVAILABLE FROM:

1) SUBSCRIPTION (In advance) $20 per year (includes delivery/postage).

2) A single edition of WhatsUp can be bought at the office and selected outlets.

You may also subscribe by using the form on the outside cover.

3) Reference copies are held in the Tourist Office and Toowoomba Library.

COPYRIGHT

JESS WRIGHT Secretary

Copyright Protected. All pages are subject to copyright law and may be copied only with the permission of WhatsUp. Copies are not to be used commercially or for profit or for personal financial gain. Permission may be granted to copy only if the purpose is to give it away to others for their personal interest but not to any other organisation or service.

DISCLAIMER All articles are accepted in good faith and are not necessarily the view of the Editorial team or Management. Articles are accepted on the understanding that in the event of any claims against WhatsUp, the writer of the article will take full responsibility and indemnify WhatsUp in the event of legislation against it.

Articles are also accepted on the understanding that the contents do not breach any Disability laws or other legislation currently in use.

ENVIRONMENTAL FRIENDLY/ COPYING

ANN PAULL Treasurer

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WhatsUp In Disability is provided as a Master Copy to individuals and organisations or to view online form our website. We are environmental friendly, we do not print any more copies than is absolutely necessary. We prefer and encourage the practice of passing the magazine from person to person or copying the whole magazine to pass on to others. Permission is needed to copy (see Copyright above) When copying the magazine we require that the pages be marked ‘copy’.

WhatsUp Support Services

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Anuha Services (Gatton)

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Down Syndrome Support Group

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Epilepsy Queensland Inc.

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CPL Choice—Passion—Life

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TASC National

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RAWR Support Services

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Wagtail Services

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Super Starters Ten Pin Bowling

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Warrina Services

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Toowoomba Sunset Superbowl

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Toowoomba Region

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Akadia Training

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BigDog Cleaning Services

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Ginger’s Mobile Barber

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NDSP Plan Managers

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