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NARRATOR: DisabilityCare Australia is a new individualised way
of supporting people with a permanent and significant disability
before they turn 65.
CAYTLIN: I think DisabilityCare will really help me to be independent.
I have the right to say what I want because I know what is best for me.
NARRATOR: If you are eligible for support,
DisabilityCare Australia can work with you to discuss your goals,
develop an individualised plan,
consider family and informal support needs,
and connect you to mainstream services and community supports.
KATIE: With this new system,
we'll be able to access a far broader range of therapists,
and it can continue for as long as he needs the support.
NARRATOR: DisabilityCare Australia will be rolled out in stages.
We'll reach around 26,000 people during the first three years.
And by 2019, around half a million Australians
will be receiving the support they need.
DisabilityCare Australia will help people aged under 65
who have a significant and permanent disability,
and meet either disability or early intervention requirements.
Depending on where you live, there may be other age and residence requirements.
CATHERINE: I'm looking forward to thinking about my life
in terms of goals and aspirations.
Not, you know, 'What do you need and what's wrong with your life,'
but 'What are your goals for making your life better,
and how can we support you to meet those goals?'
That might sound like a small change, but it's actually quite huge,
'cause it's a different way of thinking.
NARRATOR: DisabilityCare Australia understands
that everyone's needs, preferences and aspirations are different.
We can give people the support that is right for them,
involving more choice and control and a lifetime approach to support needs.
Early intervention is also a key focus,
because timely support can minimise the impact of disability.
MELANIE: I don't want to have a life presented to me.
I can create that very well for myself.
I just need the supports around that so I can make that happen for myself.
LEIGH: I see the potential of every single person with a disability.
I want to advocate around the world
for people with disabilities and their families to help support them
to do what I'm doing.
I'm really looking forward to people with disability
just being able to play their role, live the life they want to live
in a way that's not noticed as being amazing or inspiring,
but just is what Australia is known for.
How great would that be?
NARRATOR: For more information go to our website,
call us or drop in to one of our offices.