Laura and Eddie

Laura and Edward “I first heard about the Disability Gateway from my NDIS service provider at the Chinese Australian Services Society (CASS), and I am so happy with it,” says Laura, who is a full-time carer for her son Eddie.

“I looked at the Disability Gateway quite a few times and was very impressed to see so many services available through the website to help families like ours.”

Twenty-eight year old Eddie has Down syndrome, is non-verbal and needs support in all aspects of his personal hygiene including showering, dressing, and toileting. Laura is also looking to modify part of her house for Eddie so she can teach him independent living skills.

Laura has been supported by her NDIS service provider over the last three years and recently started using the Disability Gateway as some of the information was in Chinese.

“English is not my first language, even though I came to Australia from China over 30 years ago to study it,” Laura says.

“I am much more comfortable communicating in Cantonese and receiving information in Chinese, especially if the information is complex like navigating various support services and filling in forms.”

The extended COVID-19 lockdown made it difficult to source the services required to help meet Laura’s longer-term goals for Eddie so the Disability Gateway provided alternatives for her.

Laura’s initial interest was focussed on respite and housing, and the Disability Gateway was able to help by supplying the contact details of several agencies.

More recently Laura, looked into the transport taxi option.

“Because of Eddie’s needs, suitable transport is difficult to access,” Laura says.

“However, the Disability Gateway made it so easy.”

“The taxi option meant Eddie could visit his doctor for his second COVID-19 vaccination without any fuss and reduced the stress on him.”

“I feel very supported by the Disability Gateway and the range of services it offers.

“It is easy to research what you want and helps meet people’s specific needs and I am very happy to recommend this service to my friends and family.”

You can access the Disability Gateway at www.disabilitygateway.gov.au or call 1800 643 787. If you need help in another language, then call the free Translating and Interpreting Service on 131 450 and ask to be connected to the Disability Gateway.

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