At Ripples of Change, we believe in the power of supporting families to navigate the systems that impact their lives. Family Navigation is about providing hands-on, personalised guidance to help families access the services and support they need to thrive. We’re here to ease the stress of navigating complex systems and empower you to take control of your journey.
Family Navigation
Who can access Family Navigation services?
Our Family Navigation service is available to:
Families with children or loved ones with suspected or diagnosed disability or developmental delays who are seeking support in navigating the NDIS, healthcare, education, and other community services.
Families looking to understand and access available services within the NDIS, but are feeling overwhelmed or unsure of where to start.
Families who want more tailored support with accessing healthcare, finding the right educational settings, or identifying extracurricular activities that will benefit their child’s development.
Carers and guardians who need additional support to advocate for their loved one’s needs across various systems.
Essentially, if you’re a family looking to access services and support that can make a positive difference in your child’s or loved one’s life, we’re here for you.
What systems can we help you navigate?
At Ripples of Change, we recognise that individuals and families often face the challenge of navigating complex and overwhelming systems. These systems currently operate independently of each other, which can create confusion and stress. Our mission is to bridge these gaps and connect the dots between each system, helping to create a smoother, more seamless experience as you navigate life's waves.
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Understanding the child development screening processes
Understanding the diagnostic process
Navigating the public vs. private healthcare system
Accessing support while waiting
Knowing what to do if a diagnosis isn’t given
Understanding Medicare services
Understanding options for Allied Health (Therapy) services
Transitioning from paediatric health services to adults
Understanding healthcare acronyms
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Understanding pre-school options
Differences between education systems (public vs private)
What to look out for your child when choosing an education systems
What additional supports are available through the education systems for inclusion support e.g. SSO, One Plan
Understanding supports available for education through other systems e.g. Hospital in the school
What to do if my child has behaviour
What to do when you’re told your child is unable to attend school because of “behaviour”
Behaviour supports available in the education system
School refusal
Transition to school
Transition out of school
Access to extra curricular activities e.g. OSHC, sports, music etc.
Transport assistance
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Understanding different types of advocacy
Navigating the advocacy process
Accessing independent disability advocates
Finding legal services
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Understanding the NDIS
How to access the NDIS
How to know if I am eligible for NDIS
Understanding Early Intervention and the Early Intervention Partner
What to do once NDIS funding has been approved
How to set meaningful NDIS goals
Options for managing NDIS Funds (self vs plan vs agency)
Understanding your NDIS Plan
Where do I find NDIS services
How to end a Service Agreement with an NDIS provider
What to do when I am no longer eligible for NDIS
Understanding NDIS keywords and acronyms
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Medicare rebates
Centrelink payments
Allowances and supplements
Concessions and healthcare cards
Companion cards
Other financial supports for families
Accessing free resources available to you e.g. Foodbank, Puddle Jumpers, Care Packs etc.
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Finding inclusive employment options
Supports to make a workplace inclusive
Linking you with appropriate supports to commence exploring employment.
Where to get supports for getting your drivers license and other relevant qualifications.
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Understanding what carer support is available
How to apply for carer support
How to get support for siblings
Understanding the different types of childcare support available
Supports available to help manage relationships
Peer support groups
Supports for managing your mental health & wellbeing
Family agency and capacity building to advocate for your child
How to minimise risks of social isolation
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Navigating local council
Getting involved in your community - local council, libraries, playgroups, local parks
Knowing accessible activities in your community
Knowing recreational activities within your community - sports, swimming pools, shopping centres, cinemas etc.
How to feel safe in your community
Finding changing places
Understanding the difference between council run and community owned
Accessing interpreter services
Accessing culturally safe and inclusive services
How it works
Initial Consultation
We begin with a one-on-one meeting to understand your family's needs, goals, and challenges. During this consultation, we’ll listen to your specific concerns and start mapping out a plan that’s right for you.
Plan Development
Based on the consultation, our Family Navigators will help you develop a personalised strategy to access services. This includes guiding you through NDIS planning, accessing the healthcare system, and finding educational opportunities.
Ongoing Support & Guidance
Navigating these systems isn’t always straightforward. Our Family Navigators provide ongoing support throughout the process, ensuring you’re never alone. Whether it's filling out forms, attending meetings, or communicating with service providers, we’ll be there to help every step of the way.
Collaboration with Providers
We work closely with the NDIS, healthcare professionals, schools, and extracurricular programs to ensure all aspects of your family’s care are coordinated. Our goal is to remove any barriers to accessing the services you need.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Family Navigation is a hands-on support service that helps families with children and young adults (aged 0-25) navigate key systems like the NDIS, healthcare, education, and extracurricular activities. Our Family Navigators provide guidance, advocacy, and practical support to help families access the right services for their loved ones.
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Our Family Navigation service is available to families with children and young adults up to the age of 25 who have disabilities or additional needs. Parents, guardians, and carers looking for support in understanding and accessing services can also use this service.
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Some services may be covered under NDIS plans or other funding streams. We can discuss costs and funding options with you during the initial consultation.
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Absolutely. Your privacy is important to us.
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We can connect you with Family Navigation or Peer Support Groups.