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.

    • 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

    • 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

    • Understanding different types of advocacy

    • Navigating the advocacy process

    • Accessing independent disability advocates

    • Finding legal services

    • 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

    • 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.

    • 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.

    • 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

    • 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

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Absolutely. Your privacy is important to us.

  • We can connect you with Family Navigation or Peer Support Groups.