NEWS & EVENTS
At RIAC, we are committed to keeping you informed about the latest news and events on all of our activities, including workshops, rallies, and other events. We also share updates about our programs and services, so you can learn more about how we are making an impact in the community.
Be sure to visit our news and events page often to stay informed, and follow us on social media for even more updates and opportunities to get involved.
RIAC advocates for fairer Immigration Policies
Rights Information and Advocacy Centre (RIAC) is proud to announce its involvement in the Welcoming Disability Campaign, joining a coalition of over 70 organisations in a united effort to reform Australia’s immigration policies for people with disabilities and health...
Uncle Mick’s Story
Uncle Mick Wilson is a well-known and much-loved Aboriginal Personality in Shepparton—a proud Barkindji Man from NSW who has lived in Shepparton since 1988. A previous singer/performer and business owner for the past 50 years, he has finally retired and is enjoying...
International Day of People Living with Disability
Hey RIAC Squad, We're thrilled to share the joy and good vibes from our action-packed International Day of People Living with Disability celebrations! Here's the lowdown on the awesome happenings: Geelong Disability Awards Bash! 🎉🏆 First up, a massive high-five to...
Funding Boost
The Victorian Government is providing $1.8 million in boost funding for Victorians with disability, and their families, to keep accessing timely and targeted advocacy support through the Victorian Disability Advocacy Program, when they need it. The Victorian...
RIAC holds 2023 AGM
We recently held our 2023 Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Monday, 20th November, presenting an overview of the organisation's activities and operations over the past year. The AGM highlighted several points of interest from our most recent 2023 Annual Report,...
Strengthening Parents Support Program – Carer’s News
RIAC has been very busy in the carer space, working to expand our “self-care hub” model of support for carers across the Loddon Mallee. Carers of children under 18 years in Bendigo, Castlemaine*, Kerang and Cohuna can now join us to enjoy a cuppa and a chat and try...
RIAC suspends new disability client registrations amid increasing demand
RIAC 2023 Annual Report
Gannawarra Parent and Guardian Carer Support Group
Supporting parents and carers of children under the age of 18 with disability, mental ill-health and neurodiversity. We offer: A cuppa and chat with a qualified social worker Peer support and meeting other carers Self-care Stations with a variety of activities that...
Update from the Access and Support Team
We have recently had some big changes in our Access and Support Program due to the Aged Care Reform. The Aged Care reform was started because of findings from the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety. A big part of RIAC’s work in our Over 65s program is...
Introducing the Self-Care Hub: Supporting Carers in Greater Bendigo!
RIAC has started a new and exciting initiative to support carers in the Greater Bendigo Area! We understand that caring for a child with a disability can be exhausting and sometimes overwhelming. To support the mental and emotional well-being of parents and carers, we...
RIAC host event on neurodiversity and education system
We are thrilled to share that RIAC recently hosted an event on Friday, 28 July, focused on "The Juggle of Neurodiversity and the Education System." Our esteemed speaker, Kim Alexander, brought her extensive experience as an educator and advocate for neurodivergent...
Connecting with the community at Services and Futures expo
RIAC was thrilled to attend the bustling 'Services and Futures Expo' at Barwon Valley School. This highly anticipated event, open to parents, carers, and students, provided an excellent platform for us to spread awareness about our crucial services within the Geelong...
RIAC celebrates NAIDOC week
NAIDOC Week celebrations are held across Australia each July to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. NAIDOC is celebrated not only in Indigenous communities but by Australians from all walks of life. The...
RIAC empowers carers at Red Cliffs Carers Expo
RIAC was proud to attend the Red Cliffs Carers Expo, hosted by The Red Cliffs Community Resource Centre on Friday, July 14 2023. This event aimed to connect carers with valuable resources, support, and various opportunities. Our primary focus was to provide carers...
Introducing Changing Places in Bendigo: Accessible facilities for all
We've recently discovered that many individuals and organisations in Bendigo are unaware of the key to the Changing Places facilities. We want to raise awareness and ensure that these crucial facilities are utilised by those who need them. Here's everything you need...
Case Study: Resolving electricity disruption and ensuring accessibility
The household of one of our clients faced a distressing situation when their electricity and gas were abruptly cut off by their neighbour, who gained access to their mail. Despite their concerns and complaints, the electricity company did not take the issue seriously...
Transform your life with Chloe Hayden’s inspiring podcast ‘Boldly Me’
Chloe Hayden's podcast series, "Boldly Me", offers a refreshing take on life and its challenges. As someone living with autism and ADHD, Chloe's unique perspective is both inspiring and insightful. Through her podcast, she shares her wisdom on how to live life to the...
NDIS Review
Disability Ministers are currently seeking to review the NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) with the aim of improving the experience of participants and ensuring the sustainability of the program. They have identified five key areas that require attention...
RIAC INFORM Clinic – Bendigo
The RIAC INFORM Clinic is a new service that helps people who face difficulties with reading, writing, understanding forms, and require IT support. The clinic is available for assistance in: Filling out forms (Centrelink, housing, Govt. rebates etc.) Writing a...
RIAC INFORM Clinic – Mildura
The RIAC INFORM Clinic is a new service that helps people who face difficulties with reading, writing, understanding forms, and require IT support. The clinic is available for assistance in: Filling out forms (Centrelink, housing, Govt. rebates etc.) Writing a...
First People’s Advocacy Program
In February of this year, the First Nations Program in Shepparton was launched with the support of MusoMagic, a company founded by Chocolate Starfish Front Man Adam Thompson. The program brought together 15 First Nations students from Verney Road School and 7 First...
Tammy’s Experience with RIAC
In this article, we talk to one of our clients, Tammy, about her experience working with RIAC during her NDIS Appeals matter. Tammy shares how she felt supported and heard throughout the process and appreciated the dedication and thoroughness of her advocate. Here's...
DRC Advocacy: BELONG – Bringing our community together
Belong is a free network led by and for people with disabilities in Victoria. Whatever your culture, gender identity, age or disability, you are welcome here. We come together online, both in groups and for one-to-one meetings, to build connections, share experiences...