If you're a person with a disability, building or strengthening your support and friendship networks can help you get the most out of life. The department's local area coordination program can help you achieve this.
Our local area coordinators work in rural and remote communities across the state, linking people with a disability to a range of different support networks and services, depending on individual needs and interests. The program is also being trialled in Brisbane region in the suburb of Inala.
The coordinators operate within the following regions:
- Far North Queensland Region
- North Queensland Region
- Central Queensland Region
- North Coast Region and
- South West Region
- Brisbane Region (Inala).
You will find them a source of useful information about disability and support resources in your local community.
Local area coordinators will work with you, your family, friends and your local community to:
- get to know and understand you and your family
- assist you to set goals and plan for the future
- build and strengthen your support networks and friendships
- connect you to other families to share ideas and experiences
- look at ways for you to maintain or gain more independence in your daily life
- identify how you can participate in social, recreational or other interests and be part of community life
- link you to practical assistance.
We offer support to family and carers to assist them in the important role they play in lives of people with a disability.
How to access local area coordination
Anyone can contact their local area coordinator for information about available services and resources.
You can make a time to talk with a local area coordinator either over the phone or at a place where you feel comfortable. Our local area coordinators can meet you at your home or somewhere of your choice.
You might even feel more comfortable having a friend or family member with you.
Ongoing support
To receive ongoing support through the local area coordination program you must live in Queensland and have a disability that:
- is due to an intellectual, psychiatric, cognitive, neurological, sensory or physical impairment or a combination of impairments
- results in a substantial reduction of your capacity in one or more of the following areas — communication, social interaction, learning, mobility or self-care/management
- results in you needing support
- is permanent or is likely to be permanent (and may or may not be of chronic episodic nature) and
- is present before you reach the age of 65.
You must also live in an area where local area coordination operates to receive support.
Contact us
To find out more information on local area coordination or contact details for your nearest office, contact the Disability Information Service.
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