COVID-19 latest information
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COVID-19 latest information
Updated 29/6/20
We’ve put together the following information to help you and your family get the support you need during COVID-19.
On this page:
Speaking up for children and families
ACD is speaking up for the needs of children with disability and their families during COVID-19.
We have highlighted the key issues raised by families in our Submission to the Inquiry into the Victorian Government’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Protecting your child and family
- Check the current restriction levels in Victoria
- If you think that your child or family may have COVID-19, call the Coronavirus Hotline on 1800 675 398 (24 hours, 7 days)
- To help stop the spread of COVID-19, you can download the COVIDSafe app
- COVID-19 testing is free and available across Victoria
- There are clear guidelines on what PPE Disability Support Workers should be using and the Summer Foundation has set up an online store for NDIS participants to purchase PPE
- There is free online training about infection control for Support Workers
- The Royal Children’s Hospital has COVID-19 health information for children in English and community languages
NDIS
During COVID-19 the NDIS has made a number of changes to how NDIS Plans can be used.
Think about what services would best support your child and family over the next few months.
This might include:
- Having Support Workers come to your home
- Having your child see their therapist using telehealth
- Purchasing a device or fitness equipment for your child
For all the options read our fact sheets:
How to change your child’s Plan
Speak with your Support Co-ordinator, Local Area Co-ordinator or Early Childhood Early Intervention (ECEI) Co-ordinator.
If your local contact is not aware of what changes can be made, contact the NDIS on 1800 800 110 and select Option 5 for the special COVID-19 Planners. The NDIS Contact Centre is open 8am to 8pm Monday to Friday.
Our Support Line is also able to help you to advocate for your child. To speak with our Support Line email acdsupport@acd.org.au with the best day and time we can call you back.
For more information
Visit the NDIS website.
You can also find NDIS information and resources on the Every Australian Counts website.
School
Most students in Victoria have returned to school.
Students with immune-suppressed conditions will continued to be supported to do learning from home. Speak to your child’s GP or specialist if this applies to your child.
Students with disability may need reasonable adjustments over the first few weeks back to support their return to school. Arrange a Student Support Group meeting so you can discuss what support your child needs to have a successful return.
For more information
DET have information for families about schools and COVID-19
Read more in our fact sheet Student Support Group meetings and reasonable adjustments during COVID-19
We can help you
Our Support Line is also able to help you to advocate for your child. To speak with our Support Line email acdsupport@acd.org.au with the best day and time we can call you back.
Financial support
If you need financial help, a range of support is available:
If you or your family have been affected by COVID-19, you may be eligible for Centrelink payments. Your employer may pay you through the JobKeeper Payment.
