Further education for students with disability
The Disability Standards for Education (the Standards) have been implemented to ensure that students with disability, including mental illness, have access to education and training on the same basis as other students. The Standards cover all areas of education including schools, VET, universities, Registered Training Organisations and TAFEs. The Standards cover enrolment, participation, curriculum development, accreditation and delivery, support services, and harassment and victimisation.
More information about the Standards can be found on the Australian Human Rights Commission Website at www.hreoc.gov.au/disability_rights. The website contains information on the rights and responsibilities of students with disability.
National Disability Coordination Officer Program
The National Disability Coordination Officer (NDCO) Program is designed to assist people with disability, including young people, to move between school, Vocational Education and Training, university and work.
This includes all types of disability such as dyslexia, medical conditions and mental illness. If you have to put in extra effort at school because of your disability or condition, then the NDCOs can help you with information and advice about options after school, and put you in touch with appropriate people to help you undertake further study and find suitable employment.
For further information, visit www.deewr.gov.au/ndco . A list of contact details for the NDCO programs in your state or territory can be found in the Useful addresses section.
Disability Support Program
If you are a person with a disability, injury or health condition, the new Disability Employment Services can help you to find and keep a job. Disability Employment Services are delivered by a network of organisations — both large and small — around Australia. Disability Employment Services providers can work with you to develop an individual program that focuses on your strengths and abilities and the barriers you face in getting a job. Once you are placed in a job, your provider can also support you in the workplace if you need help to keep your job.
For more information about how Disability Employment Services can help you, phone a JobAccess Adviser on 1800 464 800 or visit http://jobaccess.gov.au. To locate local Disability Employment Services providers, visit http://jobsearch.gov.au.
If you have a disability or mental health condition and are already in employment, you may also be eligible to access a range of services, including the Job in Jeopardy services, and other assistance available through the JobAccess service. For more information phone a JobAccess Adviser on 1800 464 800 or visit http://jobaccess.gov.au.