pinarc babies (0-2) 
plan management 
therapy – teens 
therapy – adults 
local parent/carer groups & activities
- Ballarat Parent Carers Connect This group is open to all parent/guardian carers of children and young adults with disabilities. We meet for activities, information sessions and social coffees or meals. Next activity is a social coffee catch up at Ballarat Specialist School Farm café at 30 am Wednesday 12th November. Contact Rebecca on rpaton@pinarc.org.au or 0493 765 542
- Ararat Parent Carer Connect Ararat region Parent/Guardian Carers of children and young adults (0-21yrs) with disabilities and additional needs are invited to join a new group with a focus on information sharing and social connection for carers. Contact rpaton@pinarc.org.au to register your interest. Meeting times TBA.
- Ballarat Autism Early Years Connect is a parent-led group supported by the Pinarc Parent Support Program. This group is for parents/carers supporting young children (0 – 12 yrs) with autism.
The next meeting is at Eclectic Tastes at 10am on Thursday 6th November, 10am – 12pm. Contact Amy at ballaratautismey@gmail.com - Ballarat Autism Parent Connection meets for coffee at the Robin Hood Hotel for social connection and information sharing. The next meeting for the Ballarat Autism Parent Connection Group Monday 17th November at 10.30am. Group Flyer: https://www.pinarc.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Autism-Parent-Group-2025.pdf
- Bacchus Marsh Disability Parent Connection meet for social dinners and information sessions monthly on Monday evenings during school terms. The next get together is a 6.30pm on Monday 24th November. Contact rpaton@pinarc.org.au to register. Group Flyer: https://www.pinarc.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Bacchus-Marsh-Group-2025.pdf
- Ballarat Down Syndrome Parent Connection group meets regularly for social connection and information sharing. Contact Wendy by email park@bigpond.com or Mob 0429109692 for more information about the group.
- SCODA – (Supporting Carers of Disabled Adults), is a Ballarat-based group who meet for lunch first Monday of each month. Contact Rose on 0459 216 992Would you like to start a new group? Our parent support coordinator can help. Please contact Rebecca Paton, on 0493765542 or at rpaton@pinarc.org.au.
Carer Activities
activities for children and young people with disabilities
Ballarat Specialist School FARM Fest Market
Monday 3rd November 10am – 2pm
800 Norman St, Invermay Park
Stalls, music, food, lots of fun.
Kids Activity Vouchers
Applications are now open for Get Active Kids vouchers worth up to $200 to cover the cost of your child’s sport or activity fees, uniforms, and equipment.
To be eligible, your child must be:
- A Victorian resident aged 0 – 18 years old
- Named on a Health Care Card and Medicare Card, or
- Named on a Pensioner Concession Card and Medicare Card
Be quick – applications close 13 November or once funds have been allocated. https://www.getactive.vic.gov.au/vouchers/
2025 World Festival of Magic
SATURDAY, 15 NOVEMBER 2025 11.30 AM and 2.00 PM
World-class acts performing astonishing illusions, interactive magic, and comedy. Providing relaxed theatre performances for children, young adults and families in the Grampians Region. Enjoy the “live performance” experience with a casual attitude to audience noise and movement in an accessible and inclusive environment, where you are welcomed and free to be yourself without restriction or judgement.
One hour shows. Suitable for all ages and accessible for people…
– with diverse abilities and backgrounds (wheelchair accessible)
– who might require a more flexible and inclusive environment when attending the theatre (sensory-friendly).
– who are facing hardship.
– are without access or opportunity to live theatre.
*Featuring moving and flashing lights, and upbeat, sometimes dramatic music.
ALL TICKETS ARE COMPLIMENTARY , including parent, sibling and carer tickets. Thanks to sponsorship from local businesses. *Bookings from schools, organisations, carers and families are all welcome.
To book tickets, please email your name, preferred showtime/s and ticket numbers to… meredithnewman@showintent.com.au or call / text 0404-367-782
Yellow Ladybugs Local Connect Plus for women 18+
Sign up to be the first to know about our new program, Local Connect Plus created for autistic and neurodivergent women and gender-diverse adults, 18+, right across Australia. Local Connect Plus helps you find and connect with other adult ladybugs online or nearby in a safe and simple way. It could be catching up for Coke Zero, going for a walk, or just knowing there’s someone close by who’s part of your neurokin.
Local Connect Plus will launch later this year.
Register your Expression of Interest now to be the first to know when it goes live.
https://mailchi.mp/yellowladybugs/local-connect-plus
The STEM Maker Project November sessions
The Brainary is collaborating with City of Ballarat to offer FREE 3-session programs for 12-18 year olds across Victoria’s Ballarat Region in 2025. A chance to development of STEM skills by providing a hands-on learning opportunity with the latest technology.
- Virtual Reality and 3D game design Wednesday 12th November 4pm -5.30pm
- Design and Architectural Modelling Wednesday 19th November 4pm -5.30pm
- Make Digital Systems Work to Solve Problems & Review Industry 5.0 Careers
Wed 26th Nov 4pm – 5.30pm
The project has a strong focus on inclusivity and diversity within the field of STEM, aiming to create an environment where everyone feels welcome and inspired to pursue STEM in their future studies and careers.
Book here! https://thebrainary.com/stem-maker-project-2025/
All Abilities Afternoon in Ballarat – 3 December 2025
When: Wednesday 3 December 2024
Where: Ballarat Regional Soccer Facility, 910 Pleasant Street South, Ballarat Central 3350 VIC
Free Sausage Sizzle included!!
Join us for a fun and inclusive day of sports, dance, and arts in Ballarat, designed for people with disability and access needs, carers, and anyone keen to explore accessible local programs. Supported by all-abilities clubs and organisations, this event is part of the International Day of People with Disability celebrations. Come along and give something new a go!
https://events.humanitix.com/international-day-of-people-with-disability-or-all-abilities-afternoonAlso seeking organisations to run activities and promote their orgs on the day!
You can see a promotional video about the event here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vSS8_ISHLbs
SpeakUP: Building skills and confidence for participation at school
Suitable for ages 7-12, 13-17 years
Autism Friendly, Disability (all) provider NDIS Registered
Bring a parent or carer
Contact: 1800 317 030. Location: Online
For more information visit https://www.lifestart.org.au/programs-and-events/speakup/
My Voice Masquerade Ball!
This over-18s event features live music performed by Playjarism and guest DJ Corey!
There will be finger food, door prizes and lots of fun! The Bistro menu will be available to purchase from if you would like something more substantial and drinks are available to purchase at bar prices.
WHEN: Friday 5 December 2025
TIME: 6pm – 10pm
WHERE: North Ballarat Sport Club – main function room
DRESS CODE: “Red Carpet Ready” Masks are optional!
TICKETS: $45 per adult and only $15* for companion cards or support worker accompanying adult guest.
*Note that companion card/support worker tickets include finger food.
Bookings close 25 November 2025. Any cancellations after this date will be refunded less a $15 cost.
Bookings are now open on Try Booking: https://www.trybooking.com/DFZEA
Cash and Eftpos ticket sales are available at Pinarc Golden Point and Pinarc Lucas (exact money only).
If you have any questions please call 1800 746 272 or email myvoice@pinarc.org.au
ACMI Gameworlds
At ACMI, Fed Square until Sun 8 Feb 2026
Explore major titles like Minecraft, Final Fantasy XIV Online, The Elder Scrolls Online, SimCity, and Stardew Valley, joining iconic titles including World of Warcraft, The Sims, Neopets and the highly anticipated Hollow Knight: Silksong.
Spanning over 50 years of play, Game Worlds features more than 30 videogames from the 1970s to today, with 44 playable moments, original builds, rare design materials and hands-on prototypes you won’t find anywhere else.
Discover four new microgames made exclusively for ACMI by Australian developers – from nostalgic dial-ins to playful perspective shifts.
Register here: https://www.acmi.net.au/whats-on/game-worlds/
Auslan tour 18th October: https://www.acmi.net.au/whats-on/game-worlds/game-worlds-auslan-tour/
Access and Sensory Guide https://www.acmi.net.au/access/game-worlds-sensory-access-guide/
SpeakUP: Building skills and confidence for participation at school
Suitable for ages 7-12, 13-17 years
Autism Friendly, Disability (all) provider NDIS Registered
Bring a parent or carer
Contact: 1800 317 030. Location: Online
For more information visit https://www.lifestart.org.au/programs-and-events/speakup/
Ballarat Libraries activities for kids, teens and adults.
Ballarat libraries offer a wide range of regular activities and special events. Legos groups, science sessions, arts and crafts, movies and more….
https://libraries.ballarat.vic.gov.au/whats-on/whats-on-brochure
People Outdoors Upcoming Camps
All Abilities Sports options:
The Bowls Crew
An inclusive lawn bowls program for adults with intellectual disabilities and autism.
Discover the joy of lawn bowls in a fun, welcoming and supportive environment! The Bowls Crew is designed for adults aged 18+ with an intellectual disability and/or autism. Our program offers expert coaching, tailored activities and a friendly atmosphere for participants and their support networks.
https://sportscentral.org.au/join-the-bowls-crew/
Come and Try – All Abilities Rowing
Discover the joy of rowing at Ballarat City Rowing Club’s All Abilities Rowing Come & Try Day!
Open to people of all abilities, this inclusive event is a fantastic opportunity to experience the sport in a supportive and welcoming environment. These events are FREE to attend.
Ballarat City Rowing Club
Session 1 Sunday 19 October 2025 3:00pm – 4:30pm
Session 2 Tuesday 21 October 2025 10:30am – 12:00pm
https://www.ballaratcityrowing.com/allabilities
All Abilities Basketball Competition
– a new initiative designed to provide inclusive opportunities and meaningful pathways for individuals of all abilities to participate in and enjoy the game of basketball.
When: Thursday afternoons (Term 4, 2025)
Where: Minerdome – Venue Information
Time: Approximately 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM
Duration: 8-week season
Who Can Participate: Teams or individuals from specialist schools, disability service providers, and inclusive sports programs
Competition Levels: Junior and Senior divisions
Each with two grades (subject to a minimum of four teams per division)
Modified rules to maximise participation and enjoyment
Ballarat Basketball is currently working with local clubs (Local Clubs Directory) to provide support to teams and foster the growth and sustainability of the competition.
This initiative is proudly supported by the Regional All-Abilities Participation Grant, which aims to increase access and remove barriers for individuals with disabilities to participate in sport across regional Victoria.
Are Able All Abilities Hoops
All Abilities Hoops is an inclusive basketball program designed for children aged 5–18 living with disability. https://www.ballaratbasketball.com/all-abilities-hoops/
All Abilities Auskick 2025.
Ballarat Bulldogs Football Netball Club with the help of the AFL & East Point Dragons are running all abilities Auskick 2025. https://www.playhq.com/afl/register/65218c Boy and girls 7-14 yrs, or All girls 5-12 yrs.
Come ‘n Try archery!
https://www.wendoureearchery.com/come-n-try-archery.html
The Ballarat Bulldogs Football Netball Club
Email ballarat@fida.org.au or simply turn up.
All Abilities Gymnastics – Ballarat Gymsports
https://www.ballaratgymsports.com/classes/inclusion/
Special Olympics Ballarat
https://www.specialolympics.com.au/ballarat
Special Olympics Ballarat currently offer swimming, basketball and gymnastics during school terms. If you have any questions, or to find out more information about one of their programs, contact by phone on 0431 421 241 or by email using ballarat.media@specialolympics.com.au
Ballarat Netball Association All Abilities Netball (16+)
https://ballaratnetball.weebly.com/contact.html
AAA Play Website
Sports Central promote inclusive sport and recreation programs within the Central Highlands region through the AAA Play website https://www.aaaplay.org.au/
information sessions, courses and webinars
Understanding the NDIS: Overview of Changes to NDIS Legislation | NDIS
Wednesday, 29 October 2025 1:00pm to 2:00pm
This presentation will help you understand:
- what’s new
- what has changed
- what is still to come
We will cover a variety of topics in this session include funding periods, NDIS Supports, impairment information and other legislative reforms.
Sessions will be delivered via video-conference using Microsoft Teams.
https://www.ndis.gov.au/events/10896-understanding-ndis-overview-changes-ndis-legislation
Support your child to Get Ready for Child Care and Kindergarten workshop
Child care and kindergarten are an important part of your child’s life. They give opportunities to learn, play and make friends.
Our friends at ACD are running a FREE online workshop called Getting Ready for Child Care and Kindergarten. It’s for families with children aged 0 – 5 with developmental delay or disability who are starting their learning journey. Topics include working in partnership with early childhood educators, practical support at child care and kindergarten, how funding works.
- Monday 17 November – 7:30 pm
- Tuesday 18 November – 10:00 am
- Wednesday 18 November – 10:00 am
Any questions contact educate@acd.org.au or Call 03 9880 7000 or 1800 654 013 (regional callers)
Book here: Save your place: bit.ly/GettingReadyNov25
Caring for yourself: a Carers Victoria Online Workshop
Date: 13 Nov 2025
Time: 10.30am – 12.00pm
Explores why your health and wellbeing are important and gives you practical strategies to help you better care for yourself.
https://www.carersvictoria.org.au/event/caring-for-yourself-online-workshop-10567/
Ballarat Disability Expo
Hosted by AssistU Care and Support Services
Thursday, 20th November 2025
10am – 2pm at North Ballarat Sports Club.
A community event celebrating inclusion, connection, and support.
Find out about the services available in your area.
There will also be coffee vans and food vendors on site Plus, Power FM Ballarat will be joining us for a live broadcast, bringing the energy and entertainment throughout the day!
Services and Supports for Carers – Online Workshop
A free online workshop to support carers via Zoom. Link provided on registration.
Date: 24 Nov 2025 Time: 1.30pm – 3.00pm
Join us online to learn about the support services that are available to carers and their families.
Topics include:
Support services for carers such as the Carer Gateway, Information about organisations that provide support to carers across Victoria, The role of Carers Victoria. https://www.carersvictoria.org.au/event/services-and-supports-for-carers-online-workshop-10549/
Your Rights, Your Voice: Disability Discrimination Info Session in Ballarat Central (Free Legal Education Session)
When: Thursday 4 December 2025
Time: 10:00am – 12:00pm
Location: Face to face at Meeting Room 4 – Ballarat Library (178 Doveton St Nth, Ballarat Central)
Facilitated by: Kerry O’Hagan, Solicitor and Community Legal Education Coordinator at the Disability Discrimination Legal Service Inc.
Register here: https://events.humanitix.com/your-rights-your-voice-disability-discrimination-info-session-in-sebastopol
This workshop is for people living with disability, carers, organisations, leaders, advocates, community groups and clubs working with people living with disability. Learn about:
- What areas of life are covered by disability discrimination law?
- What is direct discrimination?
- What is indirect discrimination?
- What are reasonable adjustments?
- How to make complaints about discrimination
Please contact Meg Lawton, Community Inclusion Officer (Access and Inclusion) at meglawton@ballarat.vic.gov.au if you have any questions about this session
Join the Central Highlands Regional Advocacy Group!
Welcoming new members currently!
When: Wednesday 4 December 2025
Time: 1:00pm – 2:30pm (with networking to follow)
Where: Trench Room, Level 1, Ballarat Town Hall
Afternoon tea provided
Led by Grampians disAbility Advocacy, the Central Highlands Regional Advocacy Group (CHRAG) is a long-standing, collaborative network championing disability advocacy across the Central Highlands region.
The CHRAG brings together local service providers, people with lived experience of disability, carers, and community organisations to address key advocacy issues.
This Group welcomes people with lived experience of disability, carers, service providers, leaders and those interested in disability advocacy!
new services for families
City of Ballarat Accessibility Map Now Live!
The City of Ballarat Accessibility Map is an interactive tool integrated with Google Maps designed to assist people with disability, carers, and support workers in easily locating accessible facilities and inclusive venues across the municipality.
The following have been highlighted on the map:
- Changing Places facilities: Fully accessible toilets with adult-sized change tables and ceiling hoists for people with high support needs.
- Adult Change Facilities: Spacious amenities designed for adults with disability who require assistance.
- Accessible Public Toilets: Locations sourced from the National Public Toilet Map, meeting national accessibility standards.
- MLAK Key Locations: locations where Master Locksmiths Access Keys (MLAK) are available for use.
- Visitor Information Centres: Staffed sites offering local guidance and accessibility support.
- Assistance Animal Relief Areas: Designated spaces for guide dogs and other assistance animals to rest and relieve themselves.
- Accessible Attractions: Inclusive destinations with features such as ramps, tactile signage, and hearing loops.
- Accessible Venues for Hire: Community spaces available for events, meetings, or gatherings, with accessibility features listed on the Facilities and Venues page.
Add a location to the map
To request the addition of a location, change a location or remove a location, complete this form: https://forms.office.com/r/k5NPD9KtmX
Explore the Accessibility Map via Google Maps here: https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/edit?hl=en&mid=1afksIPkB-ZLbMinr5RbmT985KDKy-HU
For more information, visit the City of Ballarat webpage: https://www.ballarat.vic.gov.au/community/disability-access-and-inclusion/city-ballarat-accessibility-map
Support for families experiencing School Can’t.
Ballarat Homeschooling Events and Chat | Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/groups/481421986004259
Ballarat Mums Neurodiverse Kids Meet Up
Sat 10/05/2025 at 9:30 am
https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/ballarat-mums-neurodiverse-kids-meet-up-tickets-1354775904199
NDIS updates for families
https://acd.org.au/ndis-changes/#h-new-support-needs-assessment
Updated 30/09/2025 this page provides the latest information to support your child and family.
Including:
research and feedback opportunities
Review of Disability Standards for Education
The Disability Standards for Education outline what schools need to do to support students with disability. The standards are being reviewed by the Australian Government. You can have your say by completing a survey or making a submission.
You can share your experiences on:
- How well the standards are used and followed
- How well students and their families are supported in decision-making
- How students with disability can participate in assessments and learning
There is also an online workshop for students with disability aged 15-30 to discuss their experiences of the standards.
Supporting Neurodivergent Families – research study seeking families for interview
A PhD researcher from Monash University is researching how public libraries can better support neurodivergent children, especially those with autism and sensory needs, and their families.
As part of the study, they are conducting interviews with parents and caregivers to learn more about their experiences with libraries, the emotional and sensory barriers they may face, and how library programs could be made even more welcoming and inclusive.
The study is Victorian based and aims to complement and build on existing sector initiatives, including PLV’s current project with Aspect.
AMAZE research
A quick survey to help Amaze with its advocacy on the NDIS and health systems
We’re looking for about 10 minutes of your time to help inform us about your current experiences as NDIS participants or parents of participants. We know there have been lots of changes introduced since last October and want to capture our community’s experiences.
The survey is totally anonymous and its findings will be used in our policy and advocacy work, for example on the topic of the new support lists that are being introduced.
Here is the link to the survey: amaze.tfaforms.net/5125262
City of Ballarat Consultations
Your chance to have a say in City of Ballarat projects. Stay up to date and have your say on these and other projects at https://mysay.ballarat.vic.gov.au/
new resources for families of children with disabilities
Victorian Carer Strategy 2025-2035
https://www.dffh.vic.gov.au/publications/victorian-carer-strategy-2025-2035
How to help guide autistic teens about sex
The A list has collected a number of articles that cover this topic and offer strategies for managing sex education in autistic teens https://alisthub.com.au/resource/how-to-help-guide-autistic-teens-about-sex/
ACD Recorded Webinars – A Good Life
https://www.acd.org.au/a-good-life/
Supported Decision Making – This webinar explains why it’s important and how to support your young person to make their own decisions as they grow into adults.
Wills and Estate Planning – This webinar will will guide you through the process of setting up a Will, trusts and Powers of Attorney.
Microboards – A Microboard is a small group of people, usually family, friends, and others who care about your young person.
Post-school – parents talk about what’s next
Raising Children Network website new ADHD Resources Tab
The Raising Children Network offers a wealth of information and support for parents and caregivers of children with ADHD. They provide resources on various aspects of ADHD, including understanding the condition, managing symptoms, and accessing support services. Their website offers practical strategies for parents, including tips on routines, communication, and creating supportive environments at home and school. https://raisingchildren.net.au/adhd
supports for families of children with disabilities
Carer Gateway
Caring for a friend or relative can be complicated. Carer Gateway can provide a range of supports to unpaid carers (including siblings as young carers). Call to register: 1800 422 737 8am to 6pm weekdays www.carergateway.gov.au/
Victorian Government Carer Card
The card provides discounts and benefits to carers in acknowledgement of this contribution. It’s easy and free to apply for the Carer Card. Applications can be made online. Alternatively, forms can be downloaded from this site, or you can request that one be posted to you by telephoning the Carer Card team on 1800 901 958 (toll free). Applications may take four to six weeks to process. www.carercard.vic.gov.au/
EACH Statewide Carer Support Services
EACH can fund counselling for carers and other family members (not just the primary carer, including siblings and grandparents) They can also fund ongoing counselling sessions if Carer Gateway funding runs out. www.each.com.au
Association for Children with a Disability
Resources: www.acd.org.au/information-and-resources/
Free telephone information and support:
Call 03 9880 7000 or 1800 654 013 (regional)
Or email acdsupport@acd.org.au
Or text 0475 577 997
Carer Allowance vs Carer Payment: which one is for you?
https://www.acd.org.au/carer-allowance-vs-carer-payment-which-one-is-for-you/
Disability Liaison Officer program
General information about the program:
https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/servicesandsupport/disability-liaison-officer-program
Grampians Health DLO Program:
https://www.bhs.org.au/services-and-clinics/disability-liaison-office/
Monash Centre For Developmental Disability Health
supports mainstream health services to build their capacity to address the health needs of adults with intellectual and associated developmental disabilities.
https://cddh.monashhealth.org/
PTV Access Travel Pass
Public Transport Victoria offers an “Access Travel Pass” for individuals with a permanent physical disability, cognitive condition or mental illness. This pass allows free travel on:
- Metropolitan trains, trams, and buses
- V/Line trains and coaches
- Regional town buses
- Regional services with a contract or service agreement with Public Transport Victoria
OT’s and physios can complete the necessary form.
For more details and to access the application form, please check out the link below:
https://www.ptv.vic.gov.au/tickets/myki/concessions-and-free-travel/access-travel-pass/
young carers supports
Little Dreamers – Sibling supports
Young Carer organisation, working with young people who provide unpaid care for a family member with a disability, illness or addiction across a range of direct support programs, these programs can be found here: www.littledreamers.org.au/programs/ A link for the application for support can be found at www.dreamershub.com.au
Carer Gateway Young Carer Supports
Carer Gateway can provide a range of supports to unpaid carers (including siblings as young carers). Call to register: 1800 422 737 8am to 6pm weekdays www.carergateway.gov.au
Young Carer Network
https://youngcarersnetwork.com.au/
Young Carer Network
https://youngcarersnetwork.com.au/
The Young Carers Network (YCN) is a nationally coordinated resource to raise young carer awareness, provide information, and direct young carers to appropriate pathways for support.
They also offer the Young Carer Bursary each year: https://youngcarersnetwork.com.au/bursary/young-carer-bursary/
Applications for the 2026 Young Carer Bursary Program will open at 10:00am AEDT on 10 October 2025, and close at 11:59pm AEDT on 7 November 2025.
Siblings Australia – Advocacy for school-aged siblings
So that we can better advocate for young siblings, Siblings Australia would like to hear from school-aged children about their experience of being a sibling of a person with disability, chronic illness, or mental health condition. If you’ve got kids in school, it would be great if you could encourage them to answer some questions for us. We are not collecting any identifiable data about children through this process.
We think it’s really important to be able to tell teachers and educators about how this experience might impact on schooling. So we’ve created a survey to find out more from families who are engaged in our services, you can access the survey HERE: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/6KG3L8S .
Completing the survey should only take a few minutes, and will really help us to understand what is needed when developing our supports.
