Disability Professional Services Targeted Services
Autism Association of Western Australia
Positive Behaviour Service
Disability Services Commission funded positive behaviour service (targeted program) for
individuals who are eligible to receive specialist disability services.
Contact details
Business hours: Monday to Friday 8.30am to 5pm
215 Stubbs Terrace (entrance via Selby Street)
Shenton Park
Phone: 9489 8900
Email: natalie.taylor@autism.org.au
Web: www.autism.org.au
For further information regarding eligibility please refer to the document Eligibility Policy for
Specialist Disability Services funded or provided by the Disability Services Commission
(www.disability.wa.gov.au > Services, supports and eligibility > Eligibility).
Service details
Disability group
The Autism Association provide positive behaviour services to children and young adults
with a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Age range
People aged who are between 6 and 25 years old.
Geographical coverage and bases
The Autism Association of WA is based in Shenton Park and provides services to eligible
individuals living in the Perth metropolitan area.
Access to services
To access specialist disability services, a person must meet eligibility criteria AND the
provider's service access criteria.
Access criteria
 Diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder
 Live permanently in the metropolitan area
 Is an Australian citizen or permanent resident of Australia or has a New Zealand
visa subclass 444
 Prioritisation based on level of need including:
o Places available
o Impact on family functioning, for example challenging behaviour
o Independence, for example self-care, communication, activities of daily living
o Family circumstances
o Access to the community for the individual with Autism and their family
o Supports accessed
Referral process
 direct referral from the person with Autism, their family and/or carers
 local Area Coordinators
 other disability service organisations
 other Comprehensive Disability Professional Service providers
 other community service organisations
Referral form can be accessed by contacting one of the Family and Clinical Services team
on 9489 8900.
Referral Information required
Document
When needed
Diagnostic reports / Confirmation of
diagnosis

Permanent address – recorded on client
form
Other Consent form– consent to obtain /
release information across services;
consent to share information across
Autism Association departments.
Existing intervention plan if applicable.
diagnosis noted on referral form by
referring staff member.
 documentation at commencement of
service.
 noted on referral form by referring
staff member.
 recorded in our database at
commencement of service.
 as required for collaboration across
services and teams.

at first meeting with Case
Management Consultant.
Service model
Professional services team profile
Each person registered with our Positive Behaviour Service is assigned to a case
management consultant. Our case management consultants have backgrounds from
psychology, occupational therapy and social work.
Individual planning and self-directed outcomes
Central to the service model is the development of a thorough understanding of the
presenting needs and the impact on the person with autism and the family. Presenting
needs are identified in collaboration with the person, family, carers and other support
services. They will be supported to prioritise these needs, identify their own objectives and
goals. In partnership with the person, family and/or carer and other support services, the
Individual Plan will be developed to address some or all of the following:
 functional analysis of a presenting
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
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need, where relevant.
identification of skill development strategies in a variety of life domains including
communication, social interaction, self care, productivity and leisure to maximise
independence and personal autonomy.
identify post school goals and aspirations, current abilities and supports.
assess opportunities for community participation, work and enjoyment of life.
identify opportunities for enhanced quality of life for the person and their family.
Achieving self-direction is valued as a fundamental goal for people with autism and their
families. They will be supported to identify their own objectives, prioritise their own goals
and plan for lasting change. This will be done by providing information, resources and onsite coaching in settings of the person’s choosing. The person with autism and their
families are encouraged to play an essential part in choosing the type of professional
involvement and intervention approach that recognises and addresses their unique and
specific needs and desires.
To encourage lasting, positive behaviour change and improve quality of life of the person
with autism and their family by increasing the capacity of the person, their environment
and support systems.
Individual needs assessment
The assessment of individual needs will include the use of functional assessment,
interviews with the person’s family and carers, other support services, observations, and
the administration of formal and informal assessments.
The difficulties experienced by people with autism increase their vulnerability to developing
behaviours that challenge. Challenging behaviour almost always means something and
understanding the behaviour helps us to make effective adaptions to the environment
around the individual, which contribute to the behaviour. Using a positive behaviour
support approach there is a strong focus on quality of life gains as an intervention and
outcome. Therefore reduction in challenging behaviour becomes a side effect of the
intervention.
Also using a family systems approach there will be an assessment of the individual’s
family culture, the family values, the realities of home life, the emotional resources of the
family and the impact of interventions on relationships already under stress. There will also
be a mapping of the existing formal and informal support systems for the person and their
family and, if appropriate, an exploration of how these can be extended to further build the
capacity of the person and the family.
Programs and Services offered
The service model is community-based and is designed to encourage lasting, positive
behaviour change and improve quality of life of the person with Autism and their family by
increasing the capacity of the person, their environment and support systems.
Depending on the needs of the individual and their family, services may be delivered
through an intensive program or a targeted program. An intensive program involves an in
depth assessment and intervention for challenging behaviour. This includes a behavioural
assessment and the development, implementation and monitoring of a positive
behavioural support plan, which encompasses the proactive and reactive strategies
required to meet the needs of the person with autism and their family. This level of input
involves continued collection and collation of data and information, which allows feedback
and review.
A targeted program is designed to be more episodic, time or task limited in nature.
Supports may include the assessment of the presenting need; the development of an
intervention plan; and may include the provision of information and training.
Both of these programs involve advice and consultation regarding systems and processes
that will assist the person with autism, their family, carers and support networks.
The emphasis of our practice is on promoting independence, participation and inclusion by
building on the individual’s strengths, developing and strengthening support networks, and
supporting them in situations where behavioural, communication and social difficulties may
result in community exclusion or otherwise reduce quality of life.
The service is provided in a range of environments including the person’s home, school,
work or other community settings. Case managers are sensitive to the personal and
cultural context of the person with autism and their family, and to understand and work
within their preferred interactional style.
Review, evaluation and reporting on achievement of outcomes
Each Individual Plan outlines the person responsible for the implementation of strategies
and the timeframes for review. Individual Plans are reviewed with the person and their
family/carer every 6 months and progress towards their goals is recorded. Informal reviews
also occur throughout the implementation phase to enable adjustments to the plan to be
made where necessary.
During the intervention stage and post intervention, measures are completed and
outcomes are discussed and reviewed with the person with autism and the family, carer
and other support services. Some of the measures used are designed to help improve the
effectiveness of the plans by assessing how well the person with autism, their family and
carers think the plans work in practice. Positive monitoring checks are also employed to
assess whether the key points of the plan are being used in practice.
Where goals have been met and outcomes achieved, they are recorded in the person’s
individual plan, summarising the involvement, achievement and any identified
maintenance strategies. Where needs remain, additional goals may be set and further
supports agreed. Any barriers to the achievement of goals are identified, and strategies
are put in place to address these.
Observations and feedback from the people involved in the person’s individual plan will
also be used to evaluate the achievement of outcomes. As part of the Autism Association’s
outcomes measurement framework, a simple questionnaire will be administered to the
person and/or their family/carer to evaluate their satisfaction with the process of providing
intervention, as well as their satisfaction with the results achieved from the intervention.
Disability Professional Services
July 2015
Targeted Services
Other relevant services
School age therapy services - funded
Statewide consultancy services for individuals with Autism, their families, disability
organisations and other community services to build awareness, educate and build
skills.
Post school options – funded and fee paying
Disability employment service – funded
Community living – funded and fee paying
Family support services, including in-home and out-of-home respite – funded and
fee paying
Ability Centre - Country Resource Program
The Country Resource Program (CRP) is a Disability Services Commission funded
specialist service supporting people with cerebral palsy and like conditions, as well as their
families and therapists, living in rural WA.
Contact details
Business hours: Monday to Friday 8.30am to 4.30pm
106 Bradford Street Coolbinia
Phone: 9443 0211
Contact person: Dawn Brodie
Email: therapy@abilitycentre.com
Website: www.abilitycentre.com.au
Service details
Disability group
Disability Professional Services
July 2015
Targeted Services
People with a diagnosis of cerebral palsy or like conditions. This includes for example,
people with diagnoses such as acquired brain injury (ABI), syndromes affecting
movement, spina bifida and cerebro-vascular accidents (stroke). The team also have
expertise in working with service users with dual or multiple diagnoses, such as cerebral
palsy, Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) and autism.
Age Range
0-65 years
Geographical coverage and bases
The Country Resource Program team is located at Ability Centre in Coolbinia (Perth) and
provides services for people living in rural and remote WA.
Access to services
To access Country Resource Program services and Ability Centre specialist services a
person must meet the program’s service access criteria.
Access criteria
People diagnosed /pending diagnosis with cerebral palsy or like conditions, living in rural
WA who are also either; an Australian citizen, or the holder of a permanent visa, or a
holder of a special category visa subclass 444 (for new Zealand citizens) and permanently
reside in Western Australia.
Referral process
Families or individuals may self-refer or be referred by their doctor, local area co-ordinator
(LAC) or allied health professional.
Please contact the Senior Client Services Officer on 9443 0550 for an application form or
complete an application form which can be downloaded from Ability Centre’s website.
Referral Information required
Document
When needed
Country Resource Program
application form
Beginning of referral process
Diagnostic reports confirming
diagnosis of cerebral palsy or like
condition
Beginning of referral process
Evidence of citizenship
Beginning of referral process
Consent to share information
Initiated on application and completed at the
initial family meeting
Consent for therapy
Completed at the initial family meeting
Photographic, film, video consent
Completed on the occasion that filming is taken
Service model
Country Resource Program team profile
Multidisciplinary team includes: manager, occupational therapists, physiotherapists,
speech pathologist and social worker.
Disability Professional Services
July 2015
Targeted Services
Individual planning and self-directed outcomes
Individual planning is based on the principles of family centred practice and self-directed
service provision. The Country Resource Program assist in addressing a goal(s) that has
been identified by the individual, or a family member supporting the individual, that require
specialist therapist support.
The Country Resource Program (CRP) is a consultative service and responds to requests
from people of all ages, families and their therapists. The CRP team was established to
enhance, but not duplicate or replace the local therapy services. The Ability Centre CRP
team aims to assist the decision making of families/individuals and rural therapists and
help them develop their own capacity. The team welcomes enquiries and feedback from
families and rural therapists at any time during the working week.
Individual needs assessment
A collaborative partnership approach between families/individuals, rural therapists and
Country Resource Program team members is used to identify the individual or family’s
goals and priorities. Once a new referral is accepted, a family meeting is carried out with
the family/individual to identify the outcomes they are hoping to achieve. CRP team
members then complete an initial assessment based on the individual’s needs and
compile a report including strategies and recommendations to achieve the
family/individual’s goals. This report is forwarded to rural therapists with the individual’s
permission.
Programs and services offered
The family or individual are usually required to visit Ability Centre for initial assessment
and equipment (trials, prescription, manufacture and repairs). Appointments are organised
when possible to coincide with Princess Margaret Hospital (PMH) or adult medical /seating
(PATS funded) appointments. Country Resource Program team members may accompany
families to specialist medical appointments in Perth (external to Ability Centre) on request.
When essential, initial assessments can be made through video-conference or Skype®.
Some appointments may be held in the local area when the CRP team are carrying out
regional visits. Follow up appointments and liaison occurs with individuals, families and
rural therapists by phone, Facetime, email, videoconference (VC), Skype®, teleconference
or mail. Rural therapists are most welcome to attend or link in via
Skype®/VC/teleconference to appointments at Ability Centre with the family/individual’s
consent. Close liaison with regional therapists is essential as they are the primary
therapists and responsible for ongoing therapy management.
The Country Resource Program also offers access to the following services:
 consultative advice, advocacy, specialist assessments and equipment
recommendations or prescription.
 provision of information about cerebral palsy and like conditions.
 educational services: provision of workshops via VC or during regional visits, verbal
and written information, training videos, demonstration of therapy techniques and
CentreConnect PD.
 during regional visits:
o workshops for therapists, families, carers, childcare and teaching staff.
o community Expos to raise awareness of services that support the individual
with disability in, for example, hospital/schools/local community.
Disability Professional Services
July 2015
Targeted Services
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specialist clinics: can be accessed at Ability Centre in Coolbinia, or via
CentreConnect (video conference clinics in which, a senior therapist and Clinical
Specialist from Ability Centre support the family/individual and the local therapist /
stakeholder through assessment, treatment planning and implementation, relating
to a specific request).
The Country Resource Program works closely with CP Tech targeted services to
assist people to gain greater independence through the prescription or fabrication of
equipment and technology solutions. The multi-disciplinary teams work together in
the specialist areas of:
o seating and postural support,
o manual and powered mobility devices,
o alternative seating;
o assistive technology for communication,
o assistive technology for environmental access,
o equipment for activities of daily living,
o home modifications,
o night time positioning and sleeping solutions
Review, evaluation and reporting on achievement of outcomes
The goals identified by families or individuals are reviewed by phone or email follow up on
completion of the short term targeted CRP service. Service users are encouraged to fill out
feedback forms after completion of eg CentreConnect regional visit service support.
CRP team members ensure that families or individuals in the Country Resource Program
are contacted every 12 months to offer review and further support. Individuals requiring
additional support are contacted more frequently.
Other relevant services:
Specialist clinics e.g. walker clinic (Stepping Out Clinic), lower
limb clinic, upper limb clinic, meal time management clinic, gait
analysis clinic, orthotics clinic, spinal clinic.
Access to targeted services – CP Tech: assistive technology,
posture and seating, and equipment provision, sleep solutions.
Health Promotions: dental clinic for children who are unable to go
to a community dentist, spinal clinic.
CentreConnect videoconference Telehealth clinics
Medical appointment support e.g. pre-operative at Princess
Margaret Hospital (PMH).
Commission funded
Commission funded
Commission funded
Commission funded
Hydrotherapy training – when related to the individual’s goals.
Teachers Workshops for teachers and educational assistants are
held during three regional visits.
Commission funded
Newsletter
Commission funded
Respite services (at Ability Centre in Perth)
Commission funded
Liaison with local area coordinators and My Way co-ordinators
(Kalgoorlie)
Commission funded
Liaison with local/regional stakeholders eg. pre-school staff,
Aboriginal Medical Services, Earbus, WA Country Health
Commission funded
Disability Professional Services
July 2015
Commission funded
Targeted Services
Services.
Liaison and information for Alternatives to Employment services
during transition from school
Commission funded
Liaison with disability employment service providers during
transition from school (eg. Edge Employment, Intework)
Commission funded
Services through ‘Consultancy Services’ at Ability Centre. These
include:
Fee according to
service
Better Start services
DSS funded
Fee for service, including services for compensable service users
Fee paying
Post Intervention Therapy Services (PITS)
PMH funded
Medicare Services
Medicare funded
Helping Children with Autism services
DSS funded
Disability Professional Services
July 2015
Targeted Services
Ability Centre - Health Promotion Program
The Health Promotion Program (HPP) is a Disability Services Commission Targeted
funded program for individuals with any disability type who are eligible to receive specialist
disability services, including unique services for individuals with cerebral palsy and like
disorders.
Contact details
Business hours: Monday to Friday 8.30am to 4.30pm
106 Bradford Street Coolbinia
Phone: 9443 0211
Email: info@abilitycentre.com.au
Website: www.abilitycentre.com.au
For further information regarding eligibility please refer to the document Eligibility Policy for
Specialist Disability Services funded or provided by the Disability Services Commission
(www.disability.wa.gov.au > Services, supports and eligibility > Eligibility).
Service details
Disability group
Adults with any disability type who are eligible to receive specialist disability services,
including unique services for individuals with cerebral palsy and like disorders.
Age range
The allied health and medical services are accessible by service users of all ages
accessing all of Ability Centre’s programs (early intervention 0-6 years; school age 6-18
years and adult services 18+years) in the Perth metropolitan region and are also made
available at Ability Centre for regional and remote service users who are unable to access
these services locally. To be eligible for Commission funded services the person must be
under the age of 65 years when the disability manifests.
Geographical coverage and bases
Ability Centre has facilities in:
 Coolbinia
 Currambine
 Canningvale (opening in August/September 2015)
 Rockingham (satellite hub)
 Midland (satellite hub)
Access to services
To access specialist disability services, a person must meet eligibility criteria and the
provider's service access criteria.
Access criteria
Individuals who eligible to access specialist disability services funded by the Commission.
Referral process
Disability Professional Services
July 2015
Targeted Services
Individuals can self-refer, or legal guardians can complete the Adult Disability Professional
Services referral form.
Referral form can be found at www.abilitycentre.com.au
Referral Information required
Document
When needed
Consent forms
Sent with welcome pack
Service model
Professional services team profile
The services provided by the Health Promotion Program include: dental, podiatry,
dietetics, upper limb, lower limb, orthotics, spinal, neurology and general practitioner (GP)
and community nursing services for service users in our accommodation service who have
complex health needs.
Individual planning and self-directed outcomes
The health and wellbeing program supports individuals in accessing a range of resources
that promote independence, community inclusion and wellbeing. To achieve goals,
optimum health must be maintained.
Empowerment, self-determination and participation are the service context within which all
support is provided. The allied health and medical services support service users to
access a range of services in an appropriate setting with staff that have specialist
knowledge of the complex care requirements of individuals. The services also provide
feedback, support and education to universal health services to build their capacity to
better assist people with disability in the future.
The Health Promotion Program also provides community nursing services for service
users in Ability Centre’s community services division who have complex health needs.
The community registered nurses identify potential health risks that may impact on an
individual’s well-being, independence and participation in daily life skills and activities.
They assist individuals with complex disability to maintain and improve their health and
wellbeing by providing advice, supported access to universal services, hospital liaison and
the training and education of support staff which is delivered utilising a contemporary
health promotion model of best practice. They provide education and training that is
tailored to individual’s needs, to assist with maximising positive health outcomes, and
minimising risk.
For those service users who have chronic health conditions (e.g. require ongoing hospital
or health clinic visits, and/or medications that require ongoing monitoring and
management) the community registered nurses establish individualised programs for
regular review and monitoring, and assist with education advice and liaison with service
users’ families
Individual needs assessment
Disability Professional Services
July 2015
Targeted Services
A collaborative partnership approach between Individuals/families/carers and therapists
are utilised to identify the individual’s goals and priorities. The service user/family/carer
has a strong voice relating to different type of needs, goals, and strategies and supports to
address the needs and achieve their goals. Individuals/families/carers choose the
strategies and supports they require in conjunction with professional advice from the
specialist therapists, consultants and community nurses.
Programs and services offered
Individuals are supported through:
 person centred planning for life goals
 clinical assessment of service user’s needs
 coordination of services
 individual intervention:
 education and training:
 information:
 consultancy:
Review, evaluation and reporting on achievement of outcomes
Service users’ goals and achievements are reviewed through collaborative discussion and
evaluation with the service user/family/carer at goal completion or at one year intervals.
Service users are provided with a copy of their individual goal plan at the goal planning
stage and the goal evaluation stage. The individual goal plan provides a record of goals,
goal strategies and goal evaluation.
Other relevant services
Commission funded programs including Alternatives to Employment/Post School
Options, Intensive Family Support, Respite Services, Accommodation Support and
Community Living
Hydrotherapy –funded
Statewide consultancy services for eligible adults outside the metro region
Referrals to specialist services, eg sleep clinic, walker clinic (Stepping Out clinic),
lower limb clinic, upper limb clinic, meal time clinic, gait analysis clinic, orthotics
clinic, spinal clinic
Referrals to Targeted Services – CP Tech: assistive technology and equipment;
Health promotion: dental, orthotics, podiatry , neurology
Consultancy Services – private fee paying
Disability Services Commission - Accommodation Behaviour
Support Program
Contact details
Business Hours: Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm
Myaree: 71-73 Norma Road
Phone: 9329 2401
Disability Professional Services
July 2015
Targeted Services
Email: caroline-ann.paine@dsc.wa.gov.au
Website: www.disability.wa.gov.au
For further information regarding eligibility please refer to the document Eligibility Policy for
Specialist Disability Services funded or provided by the Disability Services Commission
(www.disability.wa.gov.au > Services, supports and eligibility > Eligibility).
Service details
Disability group
Adults with an intellectual disability who are eligible to receive specialist disability services.
They live in Disability Commission supported community living settings within the Perth
metropolitan area and referral issues are specific to challenging behaviour.
Age range
18 years +
Geographical coverage and bases
Perth metropolitan area.
Access to services
To access specialist disability services, a person must meet the Commission’s eligibility
criteria and the provider's service access criteria.
Access criteria
The accommodation behaviour support program is available to adults with an intellectual
disability who are registered with the Commission and are eligible to receive specialist
disability services. Individuals must live in Disability Commission supported community
living settings within the Perth metropolitan area.
Referral process
Individuals can be referred by their local area supervisor/families and carers. The preferred
referral process is a phone call to the team leader to ensure the person is eligible for the
service, that the service is able to provide the appropriate intervention for the person and
there is team capacity. This is followed up with a written referral.
Referral form can be obtained from the team leader.
Referral Information required
Document
When needed
Current behaviour support plan
x
at point of referral
Consent
at point of referral
Service model
Professional services team profile
Disability Professional Services
July 2015
Targeted Services
The team is led by a program manager and team leader. Members include psychologists,
behaviour support officers, occupational therapists and speech pathologists.
Individual planning and self-directed outcomes
The team helps to create a shared understanding of the individual’s needs, how these are
linked to behaviour and how best to address these needs.
Programs and services offered
 collaborative development of goals with carers aimed at supporting an increased
quality of life for the individual and a behaviour change.
 explore with support people all the potential factors influencing the presence of
behaviour.
 completion of specific assessments ie (dementia, mental health)
 assist with the development and implementation of positive behaviour support
strategies, assisting carers to develop a plan that focuses on meeting the needs of
the individual and how to manage behaviour in a supportive way.
Other relevant services:
Adult Therapy Program: This program provides therapy services to adults with
disabilities who live in supported community living. Services are available only
through referral. Local area supervisors/carers and families agencies and can
make a referral for these services.
Disability Services Commission - Behaviour Support Program
Contact details
Business hours: Monday to Friday 8am to 5pm
146-160 Colin St, West Perth, 6005
Phone: 9426 9200
Joondalup Office: 93013800
Myaree Office: 9329 2300
Website: www.disability.wa.gov.au
For further information regarding eligibility please refer to the document Eligibility Policy for
Specialist Disability Services funded or provided by the Disability Services Commission
(www.disability.wa.gov.au > Services, supports and eligibility > Eligibility).
Program details
Disability group
All disability types are potentially able to access Behaviour Support Program provided
referral issues are specific to challenging behaviour.
Age range
6 years of age and above
Disability Professional Services
July 2015
Targeted Services
Geographical coverage and bases
Behaviour Support Program provides service to the Perth Metropolitan area.
Access to services
To access specialist disability services, a person must meet the Commission’s eligibility
criteria and the provider's service access criteria.
Access criteria
To be eligible for disability services a person must meet all of the following:
 have a permanent disability which is attributable to either an intellectual, cognitive,
neurological, sensory or physical impairment, or a combination of these
impairments
 need significant and ongoing help every day with either self-care, communication,
mobility, making decisions, interacting with others
 be legally entitled to permanently reside in Australia
 permanently reside in Western Australia
Referral process
All enquiries regarding behaviour support options are received by the initial response
team. Referrals can be made by individuals, family members, local area coordinators and
other agencies and professionals. A consultation with an initial response team member is
required before a referral to the Behaviour Support Program is accepted.
Referral Information required
This is obtained through consultation with the initial response team.
Document
When needed
Other Consent form
Consent needs to be obtained for all
referrals and the box on the referral form
checked.
Service model
Professional services team profile
Teams consist of behaviour support clinicians from various professional backgrounds
including speech pathology, occupational therapy, social work, psychology and clinical
psychology.
Individual planning and self-directed outcomes
Work within a person centred/family centred, positive behaviour support approach.
Individuals and families/carers receive a flexible service that addresses their individual
needs and choice and is delivered in a manner which is responsive to individual and
cultural needs.
Individual needs assessment
A needs assessment is completed within the initial response team. Through this
assessment process the referral needs are clarified and appropriate responses and
supports (within BSP and external) are identified.
Disability Professional Services
July 2015
Targeted Services
Programs and services offered
Services are provided within the home, community or at Commission offices. We work in
supportive partnerships with providers and the disability sector to facilitate high quality and
responsive services.
The Behaviour Support Program structure is as follows:
Behaviour Support Team (Brief Response):
This team addresses the needs of people with disability and their families experiencing
challenging behaviour who may not have received a behaviour service before, where there
is a clear focus for a brief intervention can be identified and/or who have had intervention
before and may need a “refresher” of their skills or support plan.
Behaviour Support Team (Family Systemic Response):
The team focus is on supporting families to make positive change where they have not
been able to with previous interventions and/or where the family system or challenging
behaviour of concern is considered to be particularly complex.
Review, evaluation and reporting on achievement of outcomes
Includes the use of:
- service outcome measures
- goal setting with regular review
- feedback from individuals or parents is asked for at least once every 12 months
Disability Services Commission - Country Resource and
Consultancy Team
Contact details
Business hours: Monday to Friday 8am to 5pm
15 Hill View Terrace East Vic Park 6101
Phone: 94668322
Email: crct.admin@dsc.wa.gov.au
Web: www.disability.wa.gov.au
Service details
Disability group
The Country Resource and Consultancy Team (CRCT) provides consultancy, training and
ongoing professional development for occupational therapists, physiotherapists and
speech pathologists who work with children and adults with a disability (i.e. any disability)
who live in country WA.
People with disability who are receiving services from country therapists do not need to be
registered with the Disability Services Commission for CRCT support to be provided.
Age range
Any age
Disability Professional Services
July 2015
Targeted Services
Geographical coverage and bases
CRCT is able to provide support in regional, rural and remote areas with the exception of
the South West which is serviced by the Regional Therapy Team.
CRCT is based in East Victoria Park but regularly travels to country regions.
Access to services
People with disability who are receiving services from country therapists do not need to be
registered with the Disability Services Commission for CRCT support to be provided.
Access criteria
A country therapist, working for WA Country Health Service or privately, can request
CRCT support, training or professional development in any area of disability at any time.
Country therapists may also request assistance with specific people for whom they are
providing services for.
In the case of a specific person, the person/ family/ carer and country therapist must
identify that the person has a disability as defined by the Disability Services Act 1993 i.e.
the person has a disability which is attributable to an intellectual, cognitive, neurological,
sensory, or physical impairment or a combination of those impairments which are
permanent or likely to be permanent; may or may not be of a chronic or episodic nature;
and which result in a substantially reduced capacity of the person for communication,
social interaction, learning or mobility; and a need for continuing support services
Please note: although the Act also includes people with psychiatric disability, CRCT does
not support country therapists with people whose difficulty is solely psychiatric in nature as
mental health services are better placed to assist in these instances.
Referral process
Country therapists can self-refer for CRCT support i.e. CRCT support is provided upon
request from a country therapist. To access CRCT please contact a CRCT team member
(contact list is available on the WA Country Health Service Website) or the CRCT team
leader on 9466 8322.
Service model
Professional services team profile
 occupational therapists
 physiotherapists
 speech pathologists
Individual planning and self-directed outcomes
As CRCT provides a consultancy service for country therapists working with people with
disability, we are not regularly involved in individual planning and self-directed outcomes.
Individual needs assessment
As CRCT provides a consultancy service for country therapists working with people with
disability, we do not undertake needs assessments for individuals.
Programs and services offered
Disability Professional Services
July 2015
Targeted Services
CRCT is able to support country therapists with general and specialised information
provision, resource development and provision, group training and/or individual
professional development, clinical skill development, community capacity building, and
assistance with contacts and networking with other organisations and government
departments.
Communication strategies include email, phone, videoconferencing and desktop
videoconferencing. Country therapists are also able to request on-site support from
CRCT once a quarter.
Review, evaluation and reporting on achievement of outcomes
The CRCT service is regularly evaluated and reviewed via post training evaluation forms,
post-trip on-line surveys and an annual questionnaire. The surveys and questionnaires are
completed by country therapists and achievements are reported to Statewide Consultancy
Services management, the Director General and the Commission’s board.
Disability Services Commission - Early Years Country Team
Disability Services Commission Early Years Country Team is for children diagnosed with
Autism Spectrum Disorder and their families/carers.
Contact details
Business hours: Monday to Friday 8am to 5pm
15 Hill View Terrace, East Victoria Park WA 6101
Phone: (08) 9466 8329
Email: Carolyn.Price@dsc.wa.gov.au
Website: www.disability.wa.gov.au
For further information regarding eligibility please refer to the document Eligibility Policy for
Specialist Disability Services funded or provided by the Disability Services Commission
(www.disability.wa.gov.au > Services, supports and eligibility > Eligibility).
Service details
Disability group
Children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.
Age range
0 – 6 years
Geographical coverage and bases
Country Western Australia, including rural and remote regions.
Access to services
To access specialist disability services, a child must meet the Commission’s eligibility
criteria and the provider's service access criteria.
Access criteria
Disability Professional Services
July 2015
Targeted Services
Eligibility for the Early Years Country Team is determined by the eligibility branch of the
Disability Services Commission.
Referral process
Children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder are referred via the eligibility branch of
the Commission by parents/carers, local area coordinator, paediatrician, Department of
Health or other allied health professionals.
Referral Information required
Document
When needed
Parent/s’ consent
At point of referral
Service model
Professional services team profile
The team is comprised of a program manager, team leader and psychologists. Where
appropriate, a local therapy assistant may be engaged to support the program
implementation.
Individual planning and self-directed outcomes
Commission psychologists work with the child’s family and the local community to identify
and design strategies to help the child learn and develop. The psychologists also support
families to develop and foster relationships with local services and to achieve their goals
and build the life they want for their family.
Individual needs assessments
Assessment of the child and family’s strengths, interests and development occurs in the
family home and community where the child and family live (e.g. day-care, school).
Programs and services offered
The Early Years Country psychologists work with other service providers, including local
allied health therapists, focussing on designing a comprehensive, individualised, homebased program for each child. Families are directly involved in implementing the program,
along with other relevant local people who can offer support on a regular basis. If a
therapy assistant is engaged, their role is to work directly with the child on the identified
program goals. The team supports families and their network by developing strategies that
assist families to:
 understand autism
 learn how to promote learning and development in their child
 gain skills that support effective parent-child interactions
 address and cope with challenging behaviour
 identifying family strengths and accessing relevant supports
Review, evaluation and reporting on achievement of outcomes
Individual family plans are reviewed and the goals evaluated at an agreed time, at least
annually. Parents are asked for program feedback at least once every 12 months.
Disability Professional Services
July 2015
Targeted Services
Independent Living Centre of WA (ILC)
Assistive technology service
Disability Services Commission funded assistive technology service. This service is
available for individuals with any disability type of all ages.
The Independent Living Centre WA (ILC) provides information and advice, assessment,
training, funding and hire services that enable Western Australians of all ages and abilities
to live more independent and fulfilling lives.
Contact details
Business hours: Monday to Friday 8.30am to 5pm
Main office
The Niche, Suite A, 11 Aberdare Rd, Nedlands
Phone: 9381 0600
Email: general@ilc.com.au
Website: www.ilc.com.au
Other bases
ILC Cockburn
Suite 6B, 11 Wentworth Parade, Success
Commonwealth Respite & Carelink Centre
Unit 13, 386 Wanneroo Road, Westminster
Noah’s Ark Toy Library Service
5a Bookham St, Morley
Phone: 9328 1598
Website: www.natl.org.au
For further information regarding eligibility please refer to the document Eligibility Policy for
Specialist Disability Services funded or provided by the Disability Services Commission
(www.disability.wa.gov.au > Services, supports and eligibility > Eligibility).
Service details
Disability group
Eligible individuals with any disability type.
Age range
All ages. To be eligible for Commission funded services the person must be under the age
of 65 years when the disability manifests.
Geographical coverage and bases
The assistive technology service is a state wide program. Health professionals conduct
regular country trips to provide information and advice to country residents and other
organisations. The ILC has a display floor of assistive technologies in Nedlands and a
Smart Home set up in Success where our health professionals can provide free
information and advice. Services are also offered to the state via a telephone enquiry line,
Skype and email.
Disability Professional Services
July 2015
Targeted Services
Access to services
To access specialist disability services, a person must meet eligibility criteria and the
provider's service access criteria.
Access criteria
The assistive technology service is available to anyone who has a disability or impairment,
their carers, and service providers. When country residents are visiting the metropolitan
area, extra effort is made to accommodate appointments where possible.
Referral process
People are able to self-refer and are encouraged to include relevant stakeholders in their
interaction with the service. Referrals are also accepted by the individual’s service
provider.
Email or telephone referrals are welcome. Appointments for metropolitan and country
services are made by phoning 1300 885 886 or emailing help@ilc.com.au.
Drop by times are available on a regular basis, see http://ilc.com.au/whatson/ for more
information. There is some capacity to attend to walk-in visitors outside of these times
however these contacts may be shorter and the appropriate equipment may not be on site.
Alternatively, information can be provided via telephone and/or email contact.
Schedules for regional assistive technology service visits are arranged through service
providers. A formal referral process exists to ensure staff travel to regional areas with the
appropriate equipment.
Service model
Professional services team profile
The assistive technology service is staffed by qualified speech pathologists and
occupational therapists that are highly skilled in providing information and advice to
individuals needing support.
Individual planning and self-directed outcomes
Through the provision of quality information the service aims to add value to the
approaches of other service providers be they family centred, or person centred. The
assistive technology service considers the application of assistive technology as part of a
framework that considers the person, the activity, the environment and the technology with
the goal of enhancing participation, independence and safety.
Individual needs assessment
Health professionals will conduct informal assessment of individuals to tailor the
information provided.
Programs and services offered
The ILC provides information and advice, assessment, funding and hire services that
enable individuals to live more independent and fulfilling lives. Service access modes
include face to face appointments, a smart house display, a telephone and Skype enquiry
service, open days, video conferencing, workshops and training, community visits and
outreaches, attendance at events and collaborative project work in the sector. The ILC
undertakes research, systemic advocacy and grant funded projects.
Disability Professional Services
July 2015
Targeted Services
Review, evaluation and reporting on achievement of outcomes
The service undertakes regular processes to obtain consumer feedback. Recent research
has also evaluated consumer satisfaction for people using the service. Outcomes are
reported to funding bodies as required and quarterly to the Board of the ILC. The service is
evaluated by the Disability Services Commission under the quality management
framework and by Home and Community Care against the community care common
standards.
Other relevant services
WA NDIS My Way and National Disability Insurance Agency NDIS services
Statewide consultancy services for Assistive Technology Information
Workshops and Training
Commonwealth Carelink and Carer Respite
HACC Regional Assessment Service
Occupational Therapy Driver Assessment Service
Disability Equipment Grants and Equipment for Living Grants
Noah’s Ark Toy Library
Private Occupational Therapy and Speech Pathology services
To discuss ILC’s service and how these can help you, contact us on 1300 885 886, at
general@ilc.com.au or visit our website www.ilc.com.au .
Rocky Bay
Posture Tech Specialised Equipment Consultancy
Disability Services Commission funded service which provides specialist support to
therapists in the management of posture, function and mobility for individuals through
consultation and provision of equipment and technology.
Contact details
Business hours: Monday to Friday 8.30am to 4.30pm
13 Baling St, Cockburn Central, 6164
Phone: 6399 4191
Email: PostureTech@rockybay.org.au
Web: www.rockybay.org.au
For further information regarding eligibility please refer to the ‘Eligibility for Specialist
Disability funded or provided by the Disability Services Commission
(www.disability.wa.gov.au > Services, supports and eligibility > Eligibility).
Service details
Disability group
All disability types eligible for specialist disability services.
Age range
Disability Professional Services
July 2015
Targeted Services
All ages
Geographical coverage and bases
State-wide
Access to services
Must meet eligibility criteria for Community Aids and Equipment Program (CAEP) in order
to access Specialist Equipment Consultancy funded through disability services, however,
there are no eligibility criteria for fee for service clients
Access criteria
 consultancy/supported assessments for those eligible for CAEP require the
involvement of a primary therapist through the individuals DPS provider.
 all equipment manufactured or modified through Posture Tech must be funded either
by CAEP or private/other means.
Referral process
All individuals can be referred to Posture Tech for services. For those who are CAEP
eligible, referrals must be undertaken by their DPS provider. Private, fee-for-service clients
can refer to Posture Tech directly.
Referral form can be found at www.rockybay.org.au .
Referral Information required
Document
When needed
Relevant Therapy Assessments where
applicable
At the initial appointment
Client’s desired outcomes and identified
goals.
At referral
Service model
Professional Services team profile
We have a team with specialist skills and training in the provision of assistive technology
including postural management and the application of environmental controls. The team
includes therapists, an engineer and a number of rehab technicians.
Individual planning and self-directed outcomes
 self determination
 consultancy
 teamwork
Programs and services offered
 consultation, which can be face to face, over the phone or via the internet. Face to
face consultations may take place at Rocky Bay or within the community by
negotiation.
 assessments with recommendations/Reviews
Disability Professional Services
July 2015
Targeted Services



scripting for equipment purchases
customisation and fabrication of postural management
training in the use of equipment
Review, evaluation and reporting on achievement of outcomes
As appropriate depending on the initial request.
secca (Sexuality Education Counselling and Consultancy
Agency)
Disability Services Commission funded targeted service which provides sexuality
education counselling and consultancy for individuals with a disability, their families and
carers.
Contact details
Business hours: Monday to Friday 9.00am to 5.00pm
Administration available Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 9.00am to 4.00pm
2 Delhi Street West Perth, 6005
Phone: 9420 7226
Fax: 9420-7229
Email: admin@secca.org.au
Web: www.secca.org.au
For further information regarding eligibility please refer to the document Eligibility Policy for
Specialist Disability Services funded or provided by the Disability Services Commission
(www.disability.wa.gov.au > Services, supports and eligibility > Eligibility).
Service details
Disability group
Individuals with disabilities, their families, carers, and anyone else dealing with the issues
of sexuality, relationships and sexual health who are eligible to receive specialist disability
services.
Age range
Across the life span.
Geographical coverage and bases
Entire state of Western Australia
Access to services
To access specialist disability services, a person must meet the Commission’s eligibility
criteria and the provider's service access criteria.
Access criteria
Disability Professional Services
July 2015
Targeted Services
To access secca services individuals must be eligible to receive specialist disability
services. A referral for services form must be completed. secca has a four to six month
waitlist.
Referral process
Referrals can be made by individuals, family members or other service providers. A
medical referral is not required.
Referral form can be found at secca.org.au > Forms > Counselling referral form.
Referral information required
Document
When needed
Other Consent form
prior to services commencing
secca privacy/Confidentiality policy
prior to services commencing
Cancellation of appointment policy
prior to services commencing
Other comments
Any supporting documents are useful but not essential.
Service model
Professional services team profile
Psychotherapists who have extensive experience working with sexuality and disability.
Individual planning and self-directed outcomes
Psychotherapy and educational sessions are conducted on a one-to-one basis and are
tailored to meet the individual’s needs.
Individual needs assessment
Ongoing through the psychotherapeutic relationship.
Programs and services offered
Individual psychotherapy/educational services on a one-to-one basis. Some telephone
counselling is provided depending on the issue. Direction to appropriate resources
contained in secca’s library. secca currently has a four to six month waitlist. Whilst on the
waitlist, appropriate resource information and alternative service provider information
within the not for profit and private sector is given.
Review, evaluation and reporting on achievement of outcomes
Ongoing through the psychotherapeutic relationship.
Other relevant services
Group education sessions for service providers/teachers/parents metro (fee paying)
Group education sessions for service providers/teachers/parents rural and regional
Western Australia (fee paying)
Disability Professional Services
July 2015
Targeted Services
Consultancy services as required.
Senses Australia – Deafblind Services
Disability Services Commission funded consultancy service for individuals who are
deafblind and are eligible to receive specialist disability services.
Contact details
Business Hours: Monday to Friday 8.30am to 5pm
11 Kitchener Avenue, Burswood, WA, 6100
Phone: 9473 5458 or 9473 5479
Email: matthew.wittorff@senses.org.au
Web: www.senses.org.au
For further information regarding eligibility please refer to the document Eligibility Policy for
Specialist Disability Services funded or provided by the Disability Services Commission
(www.disability.wa.gov.au > Services, supports and eligibility > Eligibility).
Service details
Disability group
Children and adults who are deafblind which is impacting on their ability to participate in
everyday activities are eligible to receive support from the deafblind services team. People
are also eligible if they have some degree of both hearing and vision loss and they require
specialist support and advice from one of our deafblind consultants to support their
participation and independence in day to day activities. Senses Australia has an
established support group for people with Usher Syndrome.
Age range
This service is available across the age range for people whose disability was diagnosed
prior to age 65. We provide services to a number of children and adults.
Geographical coverage and bases
Services are delivered within the community across Western Australia. Some visits take
place to rural and remote areas although support can take the form of e-mail/skype and
teleconference support and advice.
Access to services
To access specialist disability services, a person must meet the Commission’s eligibility
criteria and the provider's service access criteria.
Access criteria
People should meet the Commission eligibility criteria, be residents in Australia and be
able to provide proof of this at referral. Should the service have no capacity at the time of
referral the person will be placed on a waitlist for services. Should this be the case you will
be informed accordingly.
Referral process
Disability Professional Services
July 2015
Targeted Services
Please find the referral form on our website www.senses.org.au or alternatively contact
Matthew Wittorff, Manager Deafblind Services on 9473 5451 or
matthew.wittorff@senses.org.au to arrange to have it mailed or faxed to you. Once the
form is completed, please include any documentation which supports the person’s
diagnosis and return by post, e-mail, or fax. The referral will be processed and the
individual will be informed accordingly.
Referrals can be accepted from any source including self, parents/carers, local area
coordinators, My Way coordinators and health professionals.
Referral form can be found on the Senses Australia website.
Referral information required
Document
When needed
Diagnostic reports
at referral please, audiology and
ophthalmology reports are helpful
Transition/therapy plan
at referral or when services begin
Proof of residency, Birth certificate or
copy of passport/visa page
at referral please
Service model
Professional services team profile
The team is made up of deafblind consultants who are highly skilled in the unique services
and specific needs when supporting people who are deafblind to achieve their life goals.
Services are self-directed and can be provided to support and advise individuals and/or
those who provide support to them. Services and supports can be via skype,
teleconferencing, home visits, and/or training which can be tailored to the specific needs of
a group of people.
Individual planning and self-directed outcomes
Senses Australia adopts a person/family centred practice where therapists work with
individuals and families/carers to support the goals they have identified. We acknowledge
that individuals and families often know what they want. The consultants are there to
provide information and support to work collaboratively with individuals and their
families/carers within the range of environments that the individual/family wishes to have
this support.
Senses Australia encourages individuals/families to be self-directed, to ensure that we are
working on goals that are most important for them to achieve. Discussions take place with
them to develop a family directed plan which contains these goals together with how they
will be measured including time frames.
Individual needs assessment
Assessment information is gathered from reports and information provided at referral.
Observations also provide valuable sources of information to contribute to assessment.
The consultants conduct dynamic formal and informal assessments within the environment
Disability Professional Services
July 2015
Targeted Services
of the person’s home and community settings to obtain information regarding the person’s
strengths and needs. When working across the state some of this information may be
gathered in other ways or through the country health services or local area coordinator if
possible.
Programs and services offered
 Our deafblind services can be direct within the community in which an individual lives.
 It can also be via e-mail, phone, skype, our deafblind information website and
teleconference to the individual/family/carers or other agencies who provide local
supports to the individuals, such as aboriginal liaison officers, local area coordinators
(LAC), Western Australia Country Health Services (WACHS).
 Individuals who are waitlisted are able to access advice and support via phone or email.
 Training to groups of people and service providers to increase knowledge and skills in
supporting individuals who are deafblind. Standard and tailored training available.
 Information is shared with individuals/families/carers about relevant training, workshops,
groups and community events they may wish to be involved with.
Review, evaluation and reporting on achievement of outcomes
Service outcomes will be evaluated within a timeframe decided on by the individual and
consultant, as services are generally highly focused. At times the service is provided
through other therapy services and it may be the therapist determining if the outcome has
been achieved. Outcomes will be reported on the individual’s plan, where appropriate and
goals will have been met, or will be ongoing.
For all training delivered, feedback is sought to inform service improvements.
Other relevant services
School age therapy services (funded through the Commission for those eligible)
Early childhood services (funded through the Commission for those eligible)
Adult therapy services (funded through the Commission for those eligible)
Better Start initiative (through FaHCSIA)
Usher support group (funded through Senses Australia)
Respite and holiday respite services ( funded through the Commission for those
eligible)
Post school options ( funded through the Commission for those eligible)
Accommodation support ( funded through the Commission for those eligible)
Intensive family support ( funded through the Commission for those eligible)
Home and Community Care (HACC)
Deafblind Services for older people (alternative funding)
The Family Planning Association of WA
People 1st Programme
Disability Professional Services
July 2015
Targeted Services
Disability Services Commission funded targeted program for individuals and their families
who are eligible to receive specialist disability services. People 1st Programme specialise
in working with individuals with an intellectual disability requiring support in respectful
relationships, protective education and sexuality education and counselling.
Contact details
Business Hours: Monday to Friday 9.30am to 5pm
Main office:
70 Roe Street
Northbridge
Phone: 9227 6414
Email: pip@srhwa.com.au
Regional bases:
1 Pratt Road Eaton
Phone: 9227 6414
Email: pip@srhwa.com.au
Suite 3, Geographe Recreation Centre Busselton
Phone: 9227 6414
Email: pip@srhwa.com.au
Lotteries House, North Road Albany
Phone: 9227 6414
Email: pip@srhwa.com.au
For further information regarding eligibility please refer to the document Eligibility Policy for
Specialist Disability Services funded or provided by the Disability Services Commission
(www.disability.wa.gov.au > Services, supports and eligibility > Eligibility).
Service details
Disability group
People 1st Programme is provided to individuals with an intellectual disability.
Age range
Individuals aged 5 to 65 years.
Geographical coverage and bases
People 1st Programme is a state-wide service, and offices are based in Perth, Bunbury,
Busselton and Albany.
Access to services
To access specialist disability services, a person must meet the Commission’s eligibility
criteria and the provider's service access criteria.
Access criteria
Services are prioritised for individuals with an intellectual disability.
Disability Professional Services
July 2015
Targeted Services
Referral process
Referrals into the People 1st Programme can be made by individuals, family members or
carers, local area coordinators, and other services providers.
Referral form can be found at http://www.people1stprogramme.com.au
Referral Information required
Document
When needed
Consent form
Must be supplied with referral form
model
Professional services team profile
The team consists of manager, team leader/senior educator, sexuality educators and
counsellors.
Individual planning and self-directed outcomes
Aims and objectives of sessions are discussed with the individual at the initial
appointment, further detail on the topics covered can be found on the referral form.
Individual needs assessment
Sexuality assessments may be carried out if required pre and post education.
Programs and services offered
Programs offered include:
 one to one sexuality education and/or counselling
 parent support
 professional development, including capacity building workshops for teachers,
disability support workers and parents
 school groups
Review, evaluation and reporting on achievement of outcomes
The following tools may be used to evaluate the program:
 person with disability satisfaction questionnaire
 parent satisfaction questionnaire
 service provider satisfaction questionnaire
Disability Professional Services
July 2015
Targeted Services
Se
rvi
ce
Therapy Focus
PEBBLES – Children’s continence management service
Disability Services Commission funded continence management service for children with
disabilities.
Contact details
Business hours: Monday to Friday 8am to 5pm
PO Box 20, Bentley, WA 6102
Phone: 1300 865 401
Email: pebbles@therapyfocus.org.au
Web: www.therapyfocus.org.au
For further information regarding eligibility please refer to the document Eligibility Policy for
Specialist Disability Services funded or provided by the Disability Services Commission
(www.disability.wa.gov.au > Services, supports and eligibility > Eligibility).
Service details
Disability group
Children aged 0 -16 years who are eligible to receive specialist disability services and
have toilet training or continence issues, including day wetting, constipation or faecal
incontinence (soiling) are eligible for this service.
Conditions not eligible for this service are bed wetting (where this is the only continence
issue) and incontinence due to psychiatric conditions.
Age range
0 – 16 years
Geographical coverage and bases
 state-wide
 bases are located in the Perth metropolitan area including Maddington, Mandurah
and Mirrabooka
 metropolitan services are offered in clinics, home, school and child care facilities as
appropriate to the individual child
 regular visits to regional areas
 state-wide telephone support is available
Access to services
To access specialist disability services, a person must meet the Commission’s eligibility
criteria and the provider's service access criteria.
Access criteria
The child must be eligible for either Disability Professional Services or the Incontinence
Pad Scheme (IPS).
When a ‘place’ becomes available, services will be offered to children and families based
on:
Disability Professional Services
July 2015
Early Intervention Services
page 31
a) their assessed priority and
b) the date they were registered on the waitlist.
The priority categories are as follows:
Critical (2 weeks)
High (5 months)
Standard (7 months)
Medical red flags requiring
immediate attention or
further assessment (see
below)
Clients 16yrs+
All else
Early intervention clients
transitioning:

starting daycare

starting kindy

starting school
Clients on waiting list >6mths
Clients with a history of:

Impaction > 6 months

Diarrhoea > 6 months

Constipation > 6mths
Recent washout
Under DCP
Referral process
Referrals may be accepted from any source providing consent from the parent or legal
guardian is attached. For example we will accept referrals from:
 parents
 paediatricians and other medical professionals
 allied health professionals
 teachers
 child development centres
 local Area or My Way coordinators
Referral form can be downloaded at www.therapyfocus.org.au
Referral Information required
Document
When needed
Diagnostic reports
With referral form
Transition/therapy plan
With referral form
Disability Professional Services
July 2015
Early Intervention Services
page 32
Other DPS Consent form – if the child is not a Therapy
Focus or TCA client. Consent is sought to share the
DPS referral information with Therapy Focus
With referral form
Medical specialist report or GP letter
With referral form
Optional – evidence of health and behaviour
With referral form
Service model
Professional services team profile
 registered nurses
 physiotherapists
 occupational therapist
 continence nurse advisor and educator
 clinical program manager
Individual planning and self-directed outcomes
Therapy Focus is guided by a set of five principles to ensure we deliver high quality
therapy services:
 family centred practice
 working together
 learning everywhere
 working trans disciplinary
 increase participation
Specific continence focussed individual planning and self-directed outcomes may include:
 assistance and guidance to achieve individual goals e.g. achieving continence or
toilet training
 advice and education regarding common issues e.g. constipation
 behaviour modification recommendations
 toilet environment and practice recommendations
 prescription of continence products, product samples, product trials, information on
accessing subsidy programs
 prescription of aids, equipment and environmental modifications (home, school,
child care, respite - as appropriate and in liaison with relevant authorities).
Individual needs assessment
The continence team will work together with the child, family and other stakeholders as
appropriate to identify opportunities for the child’s independence in toileting and the
development of continence. Following assessment, an individual plan will be developed in
collaboration with the family, outlining goals, intervention strategies, roles and
responsibilities of key partners and timeframes.
Programs and services offered
 information and advice on bladder and bowel health issues
Disability Professional Services
July 2015
Early Intervention Services
page 33



assessment and management of continence issues
education and training for health care professionals, education staff and support
workers
communication with stakeholders via email, telephone, Skype, web, etc.
Review, evaluation and reporting on achievement of outcomes
An independent evaluator has been contracted by the Commission to evaluate the
program.
Evaluation processes will include measures of client and family satisfaction with the
service.
Other relevant services
Early childhood, school age and adult intervention services funded by Disability
Services Commission
Better Start and Helping Children with Autism federally funded services available
through The Complete Advantage
Speech pathology, occupational therapy and physiotherapy services on a fee for
service basis, available through The Complete Advantage
Autism diagnostic assessment on a fee for service basis, available through The
Complete Advantage
MyTime Armadale group available through The Complete Advantage at no cost
Telethon Speech & Hearing (TSH) - Better Hearing TSH (BHTSH)
Disability Professional Services
July 2015
Early Intervention Services
page 34
Disability Services Commission funded targeted service that provides information, advice
and supports for adults with hearing impairment or deafness.
Contact details
Business hours: Monday to Friday 8:30am to 5pm
36 Dodd Street, Wembley, 6014
Phone: 08 9387 9888 / 08 9387 9816 / 08 9387 9802
Email: speech@tsh.org.au / bleksas@tsh.org.au / pmonley@tsh.org.au
Web: http://betterhearingtsh.org.au
Service details
Disability group
Primary: Adults with a hearing impairment or deafness seeking advice, advocacy and
support.
Secondary: Families / friends of people with hearing impairments or deafness,
stakeholders including government agencies, health providers, community partners etc.
Age range
17+ years (post-secondary education)
Geographical coverage and bases
Services based out of the TSH Wembley campus for in-person services and talks to
community groups and classes at locations pertinent to the recipient group. Other
information and advisory services are available State wide via electronic communication
methods (website resources, advice/information provided over phone/email, brochures
etc).
Access to services
To access services, a person must have a hearing loss or deafness, or be a family
member or support person/friend, of a person with a hearing loss or deafness seeking
support for that person.
Access criteria
Information and advisory services are available to any person who believes they have a
hearing difficulty or distressing tinnitus. As such, some services are provided pre-diagnosis
as people seek information about where to go for medical, specialist or diagnostic
services.
Post diagnosis, BH-TSH provides a number of services to adults who have been
diagnosed with a hearing impairment or tinnitus, including classes and information
sessions, advice on accessing specialist services, hearing rehabilitation and audiology
services, peer and professional support services and advice on living with their conditions.
Currently BH-TSH does not waitlist people seeking advice or services for their hearing
health and therefore has no prioritisation procedures in place.
Referral process
Referrals to BH-TSH can be either self-initiated or via a professional after formal diagnosis
of hearing loss and/or tinnitus.
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Self-initiated referrals: any individual who is having difficulties with hearing and/or their ear
health or their family is able to access BH-TSH information and advisory services. These
services range from advice on diagnosis and medical intervention pathways, to social
supports on living with hearing impairments.
Professionally driven referrals: people diagnosed with a hearing impairment or tinnitus can
be referred to BH-TSH via a number of professional networks, including both private and
public audiologists, ear nose and throat specialists, Australian Hearing and GPs. Aside
from informational and advisory services, the program can provide rehabilitation and
audiological services.
Although not a referral-based process, BH-TSH has a third client stream via the alumni of
people who attended one of TSH early intervention or support programs in childhood.
Referral information required
Document
When needed
Diagnostic reports
rehabilitation services and some classes will
require an audiogram (TSH can provide if no
previous audiogram results are available)
Transition/therapy plan
those enrolled in formal rehabilitation program
will complete an annual service plan in
consultation with a specialist in adult aural
rehabilitation
Other: service provision register
details to be recorded at first contact with BHTSH – will capture information requests and
services being accessed
Service model
Professional services team profile
BH-TSH manager – a highly skilled professional experienced in adult hearing
rehabilitation, will oversee a range of services and liaise with a range of professional and
support people.
Audiologists: TSH employed Audiologists will provide both clinical (diagnostic, hearing
mapping etc.) and informational (e.g.: maintaining hearing aids, understanding hearing
loss) support.
Professionals with life skills experience: depending on the needs of the BH-TSH cohort,
TSH will engage a range of external professionals to provide classes on education and
employment, parenting skills and support, interacting in the hearing world, speech reading
and social skills development (for example).
Peer-driven supports: a number of workshops and informational programs will be driven by
volunteers who themselves are living with hearing/ear health challenges (the topics of
which are determined by the needs of the current cohort).
Individual planning and self-directed outcomes
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BH-TSH operates under the mantra of providing highly individualised services to meet the
needs of its client base through effective advocacy, quality information, direct service
provision and strong two-way connections with other relevant service organisations. These
four arms of the delivery model ensures BH-TSH clients are able to work with program
staff to ‘build a service’ to meet their particular goals and aspirations. The strong network
of external service providers ensures BH-TSH can facilitate access to services on behalf of
its clients without itself duplicating services readily available.
Anyone assessing BH-TSH services will be given a range of information and support
options from which they can select the particular direction they wish to receive services for
their hearing impairment or ear health concern.
Individual needs assessment
Formal individual needs assessments (service plans) will only be undertaken on clients
who are accessing the rehabilitation program for their hearing loss/ear health. The client
will sit down with BH-TSH’s adult hearing rehabilitation specialist to discuss the degree of
their impairment, what they hope to achieve and available service options. A service plan
will then be developed to help the client achieve their goals and may include
 suggested classes and workshops
 clinical assessment and monitoring of their hearing health
 recommended peer-support initiatives
 allied and specialist health support (largely connecting with external providers)
 accessing key information
Other clients accessing BH-TSH (i.e. seeking information or attending classes) will receive
advice particular to their circumstances, but will not undergo formal service planning. This
is because many people seeking information are a one-time contact of BH-TSH, with
service delivery ceasing once they have received the requested information. Additionally,
others may have decided they wish to access a class on a particular topic (for example
employment readiness), but have no wish to be involved in a wider rehabilitative program.
Programs and services offered
BH-TSH forms the adult services branch of TSH’s whole-of-life approach to service
delivery and is a natural extension to the childhood based services currently offered by
TSH’s other specialist programs. This provides a continuity of support for the TSH alumni
who attended TSH in childhood and are transitioning into adulthood. The wider client base
for the program is any adult who is deaf, hard of hearing, suffers from poor ear health or
has tinnitus who wishes to access the information, classes, rehabilitative and support
services offered by BH-TSH.
Programs in the following areas are provided:  helping young people during the period of transition from school to work – this
includes developing life skills for independent living, finding and holding
employment, managing their hearing impairment in the workplace, social and peer
supports and mentoring.
 providing help to parents who have a hearing impairment – this includes advice and
support for parenting with a hearing impairment, interpreter help for school
assemblies and teacher meetings.
 offering appropriately formatted life learning opportunities and skills development particularly in the areas of English and literacy skills, health and wellbeing,
understanding finance, computer literacy etc.
 advocacy to address discrimination and public sector inadequacies.
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advice on accessing suitable employment, dealing with Government departments
and large service providers (ie banks, telecommunications companies etc).
up to date information on advances in hearing assistive devices, strategies to help
live with a hearing impairment and new funding or programs available to them.
Review, evaluation and reporting on achievement of outcomes
BH-TSH has a number of measures that are used to assess and report on the outcomes
being achieved by the program, including
 service delivery register: BH-TSH maintains a service delivery register, which will be
used for the dual purpose of meeting Disability Services Commission reporting
requirements via the Disability Professional Services Register and providing a tool
for which BH-TSH can monitor client numbers, as well as determining/responding to
trends in information and service requests.
 annual survey: TSH undertakes an annual survey of all clients, including BH-TSH
clients. The survey is designed to capture information about program strengths and
weaknesses from the client perspective, and is used to inform program changes to
better meet the needs of clients.
 individual service plans: clients enrolled in the formal rehabilitation program
undergo regular service planning and progress assessments relevant to their
individual service plan and desired outcomes. This could include improved skills in
areas such as speech, greater independence and hearing-device management
Other relevant services
BH-TSH provides Lip Reading and Five Steps to Better Hearing classes, library and
listening device trials.
VisAbility
Disability Services Commission fund targeted services for individuals with a disability, their
families and carers. VisAbility specialises in providing services for individuals who are
vision impaired.
Contact details
Business hours: Monday to Friday 8.30am to 4.30pm
61 Kitchener Avenue, Victoria Park, 6100
Phone: 9311 8202
Email: Debra.barnes@visability.com.au
Web: www.visability.com.au
For further information regarding eligibility please refer to the document Eligibility Policy for
Specialist Disability Services funded or provided by the Disability Services Commission
(www.disability.wa.gov.au > Services, supports and eligibility > Eligibility).
Service details
Disability group
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Individuals with vision impairment who meet the Commission’s criteria for Disability
Professional Services. Individuals must not be in a Commission funded place, and must
reside outside of metropolitan Perth.
Age range
0 - 65 years.
Geographical coverage and bases
VisAbility has offices in Victoria Park, Bunbury, Albany and Geraldton. An outreach
program is provided to the Kimberley, Goldfields and other areas of regional WA
dependent on referrals and capacity.
Access to services
To access specialist disability services, a person must meet the Commission’s eligibility
criteria and the provider's service access criteria.
Access criteria
Eligibility criteria includes adults and children with a vision impairment/blindness as the
primary disability type who require a short term or targeted allied health intervention.
Referral process
Initial referrals are made either by the individual, family, schools, medical specialists, GPs,
or their previous service coordinator in children and youth services. If the individual meets
the eligibility criteria the referral is then made to the Gateway, which is the primary service
contact point at VisAbility to allocate a service coordinator. If not eligible or they are added
to the wait list they are provided with information, and/or allocated to other VisAbility
services that are not funded by the Commission.
Referral form can be found at www.visability.com.au or 1800 847 466 (1800 VISION)
Referral information required
Document
When needed
Diagnostic reports
as available
Transition/therapy plan
as available
Other Consent form
as required
Other comments
Additional documents can be discussed with family or referring professional.
Service model
Professional services team profile
Targeted Services are provided by a range of Allied Health Professionals including
occupational therapists, social workers, orientation and mobility instructors and assistive
technology specialists. In addition, children, young people and their families will access
support from a range of allied health professionals including occupational therapy, speech
pathology, physiotherapy, psychology and social work.
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Individual planning and self-directed outcomes
Our services are outcome focused, structured to promote mobility and independence and
provide solutions and supports to help a person reach their own goals and remain an
active participant in their community. Our commitment is to provide a person-centred
service and offer quality of life outcomes that help people with disability live a more fulfilled
life. Therapists are able to provide support and training and recommend and prescribe aids
and equipment to aid accessibility at home, work or study. Therapists provide valuable
information not only for the individual, but the family and other people involved in the
person's care or support.
Individual needs assessment
The therapist and the individual work together to determine needs. This process may also
include other stakeholders as identified and requested by the individual. The planning
explores the individual’s strengths and routines across environments (home and in the
community). Areas for support are identified and together a plan based on individual
needs is formed.
Programs and services offered
Programs and services are consumer centred and can be delivered in home or centrebased, via email, phone and video-conference. Programs and services include allied
health therapies, advice and support, social support programs, assistive technologies and
general information.
Review, evaluation and reporting on achievement of outcomes
The therapist ensures that ongoing reviews and evaluations are undertaken in conjunction
with each individual throughout their service delivery so that goals remain relevant and
flexible. Goals and the achievement of outcomes are included in the individual’s case
notes and reports.
Other relevant services
VisAbility has one of the largest collections of online books in the world and also a range of
library resources for children including tactile books, story boxes and audio books.
Families are also able to access VisAbility’s Better Start program, where they can
purchase additional therapy and resources.
School age intervention services
Early childhood intervention services
Better Start
Accessible library services for all ages
Guide dog porogram
Community activity centre
Retail supply of low vision aids
Employment support and advice
Assistive technology
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Sport and recreation services
Community education and training
West Australian Deaf Society
Statewide Consultancy Service
Disability Services Commission funded targeted program for individuals and their families
who are eligible to receive specialist disability services.
Statewide consultancy services provide the support needed for a person to live in a noninstitutional setting and offers services from regional resource and support teams who aim
to assist service users (e.g. Auslan interpreting services) to access mainstream services
and/or support mainstream funded organisations.
Contact details
Business hours: Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm
46/5 Aberdeen Street
East Perth
Phone: 9441 2677
Web: www.wadeaf.org.au
For further information regarding eligibility please refer to the document Eligibility Policy for
Specialist Disability Services funded or provided by the Disability Services Commission
(www.disability.wa.gov.au > Services, supports and eligibility > Eligibility).
Service details
Disability group
WA Deaf Society provides services to individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing.
Age range
Individuals from 0 – 65 years of age.
Geographical coverage and bases
State-wide
Access to services
 The service is available to any individual who is deaf or hard of hearing who meets the
Commission’s eligibility criteria.
 The Society can be accessed by skype, email and TTY for Deaf. All community
services staff are fluent Auslan users.
Referral process
 Any deaf person, family member or associated professional can make a referral to the
WA Deaf Society.
 Referrals can be made to the organisation through direct presentation at the Society or
through phone or email contact. A referral form will be raised by WA Deaf staff.
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Upon presenting to the society a community services staff member will organise to
meet with the participant face to face. An assessment form will be raised by WA Deaf
staff.
The service will assess and prioritise each individuals request for service at the initial
interview. The assessment considers risk identifiers such as age, refugee and
indigenous status, as well as regional and remote accessibility.
There is no waitlist.
Referral form
Not required - please contact the Society directly.
Referral Information required
x
Document
When needed
Diagnostic reports
not required
Transition/therapy plan
not required
Other Consent form
when working with children under 16
Other comments: There is no mandatory documentation required at referral.
Service model
Professional Services team profile
 Deaf community workers
 Auslan interpreters
Individual planning and self-directed outcomes
 Following the initial assessment of needs a participant centred plan is developed. This
plan maps existing supports, services and the participant’s strengths.
 The planning process includes negotiating buy-in where appropriate from
comprehensive services and / or community based supports to facilitate the
achievement of the participant’s outcomes.
 The plan identifies the respective roles and contributions of each of the parties.
 The individual plan is a living document which is reviewed and updated on a regular
basis with the participant to ensure the plan remains responsive to the individual’s
needs. The participant plan will also measure and map needs against the DPS
outcomes of independence and participation.
Individual needs assessment
 On presentation the service applies an assessment matrix that establishes a priority
rating for each individual and the estimated investment in time required.
 The assessment considers risk identifiers such as age, language access, refugee and
indigenous status, as well as regional and remote locations.
Programs and services offered
The Society establishes collaborative links with generic providers, supporting the client
and provider(s) through the provision of accessible information and (where appropriate)
fast reliable linkages to Auslan and/or deaf interpreters, and other professional specialists
experienced in working with deaf clients.
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