108 Bargara Rd
Bundaberg East, Qld, 4670
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is warning people with disability about online scams, as scammers take advantage of the COVID-19 outbreak to target vulnerable people.
Common scams include phishing for personal information, online shopping, and superannuation scams with scammers commonly impersonating entities such as Government organisations.
SCAMwatch, a website run by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) provides information about how to recognise, avoid and report scams.
A spokesperson for the ACCC says that since 1 January 2020 SCAMwatch has received over 2,000 reports mentioning COVID-19, with losses of over $700,000.
Fifty-three of those reports were from people who identified as having a disability, with losses from shopping scams of $600.
“Scammers tend to capitalise on disasters and other current events to manipulate peoples’ vulnerability to steal their money or personal information. Scammers are using the spread of coronavirus to exploit and play on the fears of all consumers.
The ACCC adds that “Scammers are doing things such as falsely selling coronavirus-related products online, and using fake emails or text messages to try and obtain personal data.”
Scams targeting people with disability
According to information supplied by the NDIS, there are a number of scams that could impact people with a disability that they need to look out for.
The NDIS has already flagged invoicing scams where scammers are sending fraudulent billing emails asking people to pay an invoice into an account that is different to the one listed on the invoice.
They advise that if you receive any emails like this, you check with your provider over the phone to see if there was any change to their bank details.
There has also been an increase in charity and phishing scams relating to COVID-19.
With a phishing scam, viruses or malware are sent via links in emails, documents, or on websites.
For example, scammers claim to provide information about protecting against COVID-19 or claiming a payment. But when you click to open an attachment or click on a link, the virus or malware attached accesses and collects personal information from your computer.
Scammers sending phishing scams often pretend to be government organisations such as the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA), the Australian Taxation Office, or even the World Health Organisation.
According to SCAMwatch, scammers may contact you by:
Calling you or coming to your door.
Contacting you via social media, email or text message.
Setting up websites that look real.
Impersonating government organisations, businesses or friends.
You can report any NDIS related scams to the fraud reporting hotline by calling 1800 650 717 or emailing fraudreporting@ndis.gov.au.
Protecting yourself against scams
It is always important to make sure that you are protected from scammers and that you are keeping your personal information safe, but even more so in the current climate.
SCAMWatch has provided advice on how to protect yourself from scams:
Before buying something online make sure you've researched the seller for example by reading reviews to detect a fake trader or social media shopping scam.
Be wary of sellers requesting unusual payment methods such as upfront payment via money order, wire transfer, international funds transfer, preloaded card or electronic currency, like Bitcoin.
Don’t click on links in text/social media messages or emails, even if it appears to come from a trusted source.
Go directly to the website through your browser. For example, to reach the MyGov website type ‘my.gov.au’ into your browser yourself.
Never respond to unexpected messages and calls that ask for personal or financial details, even if they claim to be from a reputable organisation or government authority - just press delete or hang up.
Visit our dedicated COVID-19 information page for the latest updates on how COVID-19 is impacting the disability sector.
Article Author; https://www.disabilitysupportguide.com.au/talking-disability/warning-of-scams-targeting-people-with-disability-during-covid-19
Ask Scott Blundell what he does at Bundaberg's Material Recovery Facility and he’ll tell you he helps keep it running like a well-oiled machine.
One of Scott's roles is a greaser; someone who makes sure all the machines are oiled regularly to keep them in top working order.
All of the waste from Bundaberg Regional Council's yellow-top bins is sorted at the facility on University Drive.
Scott is just one of the many happy employees at the facility, which is operated by IMPACT Community Services under a program established to provide employment and training opportunities for people with disabilities.
IMPACT employs 24 workers with disabilities under the Australian Government's Australian Disability Enterprise (ADE). All of the supported workers are NDIS participants.
Like everyone at the facility, Scott is keen and enthusiastic about his work.
“I love it,” he said.
“They’re good bosses, and it keeps me out of trouble.”
And he gets to work with people who have become friends.
Scott does a bit of everything, except drive a forklift.
He does picking off the line, baling, cleaning and greasing; working every day from 7.30am to 4.30pm in a nine-day fortnight.
Scott has been at the MRF for 10 years, and before that he worked at Isis Shire Council, in its parks and gardens team.
He saw an ad on TV, came to IMPACT to enquire, and has loved every minute since.
Apart from the camaraderie and friendship, working at the MRF has given him a great opportunity to get ahead.
He has been able to save up and buy a Holden Astra which he bought last June.
IMPACT’s Enterprises General Manager Rob Henderson said the MRF provided people with disabilities fulltime employment and a place to learn valuable skills.
Workers were paid Pro Rata award wages and received all the attendant benefits, such as annual leave and sick leave.
“They learn crucial social and life skills and also gain the truly priceless benefit of a sense of purpose and a feeling that they are making a contribution to the community,” Mr Henderson said.
He said each week the facility processed about 38 council truckloads of recycling.
“This equals about 130 tonnes of kerbside recycling per week,” Mr Henderson said.
“We also process commercial recycling which is about 40 tonnes per week.
“The content is hand sorted, baled and sold to be made into new products.”
IMPACT Community Health Services has farewelled popular nurse Emma Krampera.
Ms Krampera, who is heading off to have a baby, will be replaced by Rosemary Ford.
Emma was the service’s first Community Access Nurse, which is a vital role for the Discovery Coast community.
While there has been a Community Nurse in Agnes Water for many years, IMPACT expanded the service at the start of the financial year to include a Community Access Nurse after identifying a gap in the health journey for many people.
IMPACT Community Health Services Practice Manager Pam Mackie said the role was crucial in ensuring people received appropriate access to health care.
“Our aim is to support a person on their health journey, whether that be discharge from hospital, accessing My Aged Care or engaging support to rehabilitate at home,” Ms Mackie said.
“This is where the Community Access Nurse comes in.”
She said the level of support provided was reliant on a close working relationship between hospital staff, other health providers and the community nurse.
This new approach aims to formalise processes to ensure clients receive appropriate referral and support.
Other patient benefits from having a Community Access Nurse include:
• Supporting health literacy and individual ownership of health care.
• The coordination of health appointments to reduce the burden of travel on both the client and the health service.
• Exploring telehealth options for follow-up care.
• Navigating key services such as My Aged Care, which is the starting point to access aged care services, and the NDIS, which helps people living with a disability.
“We want to support our communities to be able to better access health services,” Ms Mackie said.
She acknowledged the outstanding work that Emma had done in the development of the role and was confident Rosemary would continue the good work.
IMPACT Community Health Service’s primary clinic is situated at 2 Rafting Ground Road, Agnes Water, where a range of clinical and allied health appointments and programs are held. The service also has a variety of outreach clinics at:
• Miriam Vale – OzCare Building, Roe Street
• Turkey Beach – Community Centre
• Baffle Creek – Sport and Rec Ground
• Lowmead Hall
• Rosedale Hall
For more information call 4902 2000.
Jaimi Nalder-Dann’s eyes come alive as he picks up the sandpaper and starts working.
Jaimi loves making things with wood.
As he smoothes the surface on his latest project, a timber seat that you could imagine being used in the next Game of Thrones set, Jaimi’s face is a picture of focus.
Jaimi is one of a dozen or so NDIS participants who join Rob Wallace every week for specialised training in Rob’s Shed.
It’s a time that’s special not just for Jaimi, who has autism, but also Rob who has formed a close connection to those he teaches.
Rob, 63, is an experienced tradesman who oversees all the work that goes on within his shed.
The shed is a special place on the grounds at IMPACT Community Service’s Bargara Rd site.
It’s where Jaimi and others come together to improve their skills in a safe space.
Jaimi loves to dress in his work clothes and get busy. He’s already built for himself an impressive range of works, from tool boxes to items of furniture. There’s even a letterbox.
Rob said Jaimi was a master with a hammer.
“It’s so good to see Jaimi smiling after he’s finished something,” Rob said, speaking over the background workshop noise as participants worked.
Rob’s passion for his job is plain to see.
He’s big on workplace health and safety and prides himself on the fact there’s not been anyone injured during the three years his shed has been running.
Rob said he worked one-on-one with all participants.
“I’ve always wanted to do this,” Rob said about the role.
“There are a few of the people here who have been with me now for a couple of years.
“They really enjoy the work. We have quite a few projects going at any one time to make sure people don’t get bored.”
He explained the inclusive process the group went through for new projects.
“We will have a few options and then I put it to the group and everyone gets a vote,” Rob explained.
“It’s all about skilling people and making sure they know how to use the tools safely.”
He said the group dynamic was positive and everyone got on well.
Newcomers are welcome.
“I’d love to see a few more females come along,” Rob said.
Rob’s Shed is just one of the engaging NDIS programs offered at IMPACT.
If you or someone you know would like to become involved in this exciting program or one of our other initiatives, contact the NDIS team now on 4153 4233 or message them at their NDIS IMPACT Community Services Facebook page.
When Rebecca McPherson was battling her own anxiety demons, IMPACT Community Services was there for her.
Now the talented artist is helping others express themselves and explore different aspects of their personalities through the Japanese style of artistic storytelling, manga.
Rebecca, or Bec as she is affectionately known, runs manga art classes for NDIS participants at IMPACT on Wednesdays.
These classes are just one of IMPACT’s wide range of creative group programs available to those on the NDIS.
For Bec the creative genre of manga cartooning was a pathway to expressing herself as she struggled with depression and anxiety.
She said as a youth she had a skin condition which kept her from venturing outdoors. Stuck indoors, she soon discovered the power of art.
“It’s been great for my mental health,” Bec said.
“I came to IMPACT as part of the Cooee program.
“I would sit in a room and not talk to anyone. Then I found my drawings and I’m far more confident.”
She said her passion for cartooning originated from watching television shows like Pokemon and Sailor Moon.
“I’ve been teaching for about six years,” Bec said.
“This activity is great for all ages and caters for all drawing abilities from beginners to advanced.”
She said she took a lot of satisfaction from watching students build their confidence through art.
Bec teaches class participants the skills to create their own stories and characters.
“This is a fantastic activity to support mental wellness and stimulate your imagination,” Bec said.
“It also really helps bring together a group of people.
“Some of my students have forged great friendships.”
As well as teaching, Bec also runs her own business, Bexylum Art, which focuses on manga.
For more information call 4153 4233.
The Bundaberg job landscape is as dynamic right now as it has been for many years. I'm Paea Ruka, IMPACT Community Service's general manager of employment and training, and I see great opportunities ahead for jobseekers.
Yes, some businesses are struggling; mostly companies that employ between two and 12 staff, and a portion of our mum and dad operations are having to hang in there, but there’s significant growth in other key areas.
Exciting things are happening with some of our big corporate operations, such as Greensill Farming Group, Bundaberg Brewed Drinks and those in the private medical sector.
The care industry, on the back of the NDIS rollout, is another space where jobs will continue to emerge for at least the next five or so years.
And there are some big projects on the horizon, such as Pacific Tug Group’s development at the Port of Bundaberg and other activity in the residential space.
So, what do you need to do to get a job in Bundaberg in 2020?
Here are five tips for jobseekers to position themselves on the pathway to success.
Much of the work in the agricultural and care industry sectors can be either seasonal or sporadic and is often casual.
The best advice for those who don’t have a job is, take what’s on offer.
Sometimes you need to be prepared to go with what’s out there, which may not be what you want.
The key aspect is get working and build from there.
Every employer wants someone with a good attitude.
Be reliable and punctual, listen to what the boss wants, grow with the organisation and be a good cultural fit.
It doesn’t matter what stage of life’s journey you’re on – whether it’s a youngster looking to break into your first job, someone who has some life experience but is low on confidence, or a mature-aged jobseeker – having a good outlook and motivation to work is crucial.
There might be 300 people applying for any one position.
No employer is going to read through that many resumes and then interview everyone.
It’s crucial to have a resume that’s to industry standard.
Often your resume will not be read by a person. It will go through a computer system which scans for key words.
It doesn’t matter how much design flair you’ve put in to make the resume look great, you’re out of the picture if it doesn’t have what the employer is looking for.
Sometimes these flashy resumes can’t be read by the computer software. Make sure yours is simple, clear and to the point.
As well, your cover letter needs to show you’ve done your homework.
Use this letter as an opportunity to reflect the values of the business where you are applying.
Put key words in your letter to demonstrate that you would be a good cultural fit.
Jobs are advertised in many spaces, from word-of-mouth, to Facebook, Gumtree, Seek or an organisation’s website.
Facebook and Gumtree are often starting points for many mum and dad operations, while larger businesses will use Seek.
Some of the biggest operators, such as Bunnings, Woolworths and Blue Care have recruitment spaces on their own websites.
It can be worth signing up to the website and creating your own profile with some of these bigger operations, so you know when their next recruitment drive is underway.
In Bundaberg it is well worth hitting the footpath with your resume and going from business to business to promote yourself.
Have your resume in hand and ask if there are any positions coming up.
You need to be motivated to work. If you’re not, it doesn’t really matter what you do.
One of the keys if you’re out of work is to engage and stay active in the community.
Don’t sit there waiting for a job. Join a group like the SES, Rural Fire Service or Surf Lifesaving – any reputable organisation.
A job will come sooner than you think.
Joining a group opens a broad network of people and often that’s the way things work.
All the best with your search.
Paea Ruka is the general manager for employment and training at IMPACT Community Services. She oversees a suite of programs aimed at getting people working in the Bundaberg region. Impact is a member of CoAct and is also a Registered Training Organisation.
The Bundaberg job landscape is as dynamic right now as it has been for many years, says IMPACT's employment expert Paea Ruka.
Yes, some businesses are struggling; mostly companies that employ between two and 12 staff and a portion of our mum and dad operations are having to hang in there, but there’s significant growth in other key areas.
Exciting things are happening with some of our big corporate operations, such as Greensill Farming Group, Bundaberg Brewed Drinks and those in the private medical sector.
The care industry, on the back of the NDIS rollout, is another space where jobs will continue to emerge for at least the next five or so years.
And there are some big projects on the horizon, such as Pacific Tug Group’s development at the Port of Bundaberg and other activity in the residential space.
So, what do you need to do to get a job in Bundaberg in 2020?
Here are five tips for jobseekers to position themselves on the pathway to success.
Much of the work in the agricultural and care industry sectors can be either seasonal or sporadic and is often casual.
The best advice for those who don’t have a job is take what’s on offer.
Sometimes you need to be prepared to go with what’s out there, which may not be what you want.
The key aspect is get working and build from there.
Every employer wants someone with a good attitude.
Be reliable and punctual, listen to what the boss wants, grow with the organisation and be a good cultural fit.
It doesn’t matter what stage of life’s journey you’re on – whether it’s a youngster looking to break into your first job, someone who has some life experience but is low on confidence or a mature-aged jobseeker – having a good outlook and motivation to work is crucial.
There might be 300 people applying for any one position.
No employer is going to read through that many resumes and then interview everyone.
It’s crucial to have a resume that’s to industry standard.
Often your resume will not be read by a person. It will go through a computer system which scans for key words.
It doesn’t matter how much design flair you’ve put in to make the resume look great, you’re out of the picture if it doesn’t have what the employer is looking for.
Sometimes these flashy resumes can’t be read by the computer software.
As well, your cover letter needs to show you’ve done your homework.
Use this letter as an opportunity to reflect the values of the business where you are applying.
Put key words in your letter to demonstrate you would be a good cultural fit.
Jobs are advertised in many spaces from word-of-mouth, to Facebook, Gumtree, Seek or an organisation’s website.
Facebook and Gumtree are often starting points for many mum and dad operations, while larger businesses will use Seek.
Some of the biggest operators, such as Bunnings, Woolworths and Blue Care have recruitment spaces on their own websites.
It can be worth signing up to the website and creating your own profile with some of these bigger operations, so you know when their next recruitment drive is underway.
In Bundaberg it is well worth hitting the footpath with your resume and going from businesses to business to promote yourself.
Have your resume in hand and ask if there are any positions coming up.
You need to be motivated to work. If you’re not, it doesn’t really matter what you do.
One of the keys if you’re out of work is to engage and stay active in the community.
Don’t sit there waiting for a job. Join a group like the SES, Rural Fire Service or Surf Lifesaving – any reputable organisation.
A job will come sooner than you think.
Joining a group opens a broad network of people and often that’s the way things work.
All the best with your search.
Paea Ruka is the general manager for employment and training at IMPACT Community Services. She oversees a suite of programs aimed at getting people working in the Bundaberg region. Impact is a member of CoAct and is also a Registered Training Organisation.
The Bundaberg job landscape is as dynamic right now as it has been for many years, says IMPACT's employment expert Paea Ruka.
Yes, some businesses are struggling; mostly companies that employ between two and 12 staff and a portion of our mum and dad operations are having to hang in there, but there’s significant growth in other key areas.
Exciting things are happening with some of our big corporate operations, such as Greensill Farming Group, Bundaberg Brewed Drinks and those in the private medical sector.
The care industry, on the back of the NDIS rollout, is another space where jobs will continue to emerge for at least the next five or so years.
And there are some big projects on the horizon, such as Pacific Tug Group’s development at the Port of Bundaberg and other activity in the residential space.
So, what do you need to do to get a job in Bundaberg in 2020?
Here are five tips for jobseekers to position themselves on the pathway to success.
Much of the work in the agricultural and care industry sectors can be either seasonal or sporadic and is often casual.
The best advice for those who don’t have a job is take what’s on offer.
Sometimes you need to be prepared to go with what’s out there, which may not be what you want.
The key aspect is get working and build from there.
Every employer wants someone with a good attitude.
Be reliable and punctual, listen to what the boss wants, grow with the organisation and be a good cultural fit.
It doesn’t matter what stage of life’s journey you’re on – whether it’s a youngster looking to break into your first job, someone who has some life experience but is low on confidence or a mature-aged jobseeker – having a good outlook and motivation to work is crucial.
There might be 300 people applying for any one position.
No employer is going to read through that many resumes and then interview everyone.
It’s crucial to have a resume that’s to industry standard.
Often your resume will not be read by a person. It will go through a computer system which scans for key words.
It doesn’t matter how much design flair you’ve put in to make the resume look great, you’re out of the picture if it doesn’t have what the employer is looking for.
Sometimes these flashy resumes can’t be read by the computer software.
As well, your cover letter needs to show you’ve done your homework.
Use this letter as an opportunity to reflect the values of the business where you are applying.
Put key words in your letter to demonstrate you would be a good cultural fit.
Jobs are advertised in many spaces from word-of-mouth, to Facebook, Gumtree, Seek or an organisation’s website.
Facebook and Gumtree are often starting points for many mum and dad operations, while larger businesses will use Seek.
Some of the biggest operators, such as Bunnings, Woolworths and Blue Care have recruitment spaces on their own websites.
It can be worth signing up to the website and creating your own profile with some of these bigger operations, so you know when their next recruitment drive is underway.
In Bundaberg it is well worth hitting the footpath with your resume and going from businesses to business to promote yourself.
Have your resume in hand and ask if there are any positions coming up.
You need to be motivated to work. If you’re not, it doesn’t really matter what you do.
One of the keys if you’re out of work is to engage and stay active in the community.
Don’t sit there waiting for a job. Join a group like the SES, Rural Fire Service or Surf Lifesaving – any reputable organisation.
A job will come sooner than you think.
Joining a group opens a broad network of people and often that’s the way things work.
All the best with your search.
Paea Ruka is the general manager for employment and training at IMPACT Community Services. She oversees a suite of programs aimed at getting people working in the Bundaberg region. Impact is a member of CoAct and is also a Registered Training Organisation.
Abstract: This case study explores the transformative journey of Fiona, who faced long-term agoraphobia, bipolar disorder, and borderline personality disorder. Despite her challenges, Fiona was determined to complete the face-to-face Certificate IV in Mental Health. With the unwavering support of IMPACT, Fiona gained valuable insights into her own mental health and adopted a new approach to the world. By treating people as peer work "clients" and not taking others' actions personally, Fiona successfully completed the course. Furthermore, with IMPACT's assistance, she accessed the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and returned to the volunteer workforce as a mental health peer worker after a decade. This case study highlights the transformative impact of vocational education and comprehensive support in empowering individuals like Fiona to regain control over their lives and reintegrate into the workforce.
Introduction: Fiona's life was significantly impacted by long-term agoraphobia, bipolar disorder, and borderline personality disorder. Despite her mental health challenges, Fiona was determined to pursue the Certificate IV in Mental Health. This case study delves into her journey of personal growth and professional reintegration with the support of IMPACT.
Background: Fiona's struggle with mental health disorders made her educational and career aspirations seem out of reach. However, her determination to complete the Certificate IV in Mental Health served as a driving force to overcome her challenges.
Methods: Data for this case study was collected through interviews with Fiona and her support network at IMPACT. Documentation of her progress in the Certificate IV in Mental Health program and her experience with the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) was analysed to understand the impact of IMPACT's support on her journey.
Results: Throughout the Certificate IV in Mental Health program, Fiona experienced significant personal growth and gained profound insights into her own mental health symptoms. The program provided her with valuable tools to approach the world differently, treating people as peer work "clients" and avoiding triggers by not taking others' actions personally.
With IMPACT's support, Fiona successfully accessed the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), which further enhanced her independence and ability to manage her mental health challenges. She took a significant step forward in her professional life by returning to the volunteer workforce as a mental health peer worker for the first time in over 10 years.
Discussion: The transformative impact of the Certificate IV in Mental Health program on Fiona's life cannot be overstated. Through this vocational education, Fiona gained valuable skills, insights, and coping mechanisms, enabling her to overcome her mental health barriers and approach her personal and professional life with newfound confidence and resilience. The support of IMPACT in accessing the NDIS and returning to the workforce as a mental health peer worker demonstrated the crucial role of comprehensive support systems in facilitating successful reintegration.
Conclusion: Fiona's journey through the Certificate IV in Mental Health program exemplifies the transformative power of vocational education and comprehensive support in empowering individuals with mental health challenges. Her determination to complete the course, combined with the unwavering support of IMPACT, led to significant personal growth and successful reintegration into the workforce. This case study highlights the significance of accessible mental health education and support in enabling individuals like Fiona to regain control over their lives, achieve personal growth, and pursue meaningful employment. Fiona's story serves as an inspiration, showcasing the potential for positive change when individuals are provided with the tools, guidance, and support to overcome their mental health challenges and thrive in their chosen fields.
When asked what makes IMPACT Community Services stand out from other employers, Anton Ranger responds with just one word: “positivity”. In his line of work, so-called ‘burn-out’ is common.
“Some days as a disability support worker are hard, but the people - staff and participants – make it enjoyable to come to work every day,” Mr Ranger said.
“There is real camaraderie here; a friendly banter between staff. Managers have an open-door policy and we are encouraged to debrief and talk openly in a confidential setting.
“We know we can drive out of here and leave it all behind at the end of the day, and pick it up in the morning.”
He said staff and clients were made to feel like they’re part of a team.
“I get a real kick out of seeing how much participants have achieved in 12 months and then helping them set new goals,” Mr Ranger said.
“There is a culture here at IMPACT that says all goals are worth pursuing. While some people may say certain outcomes are unrealistic for our participants, we see the value in the process.
“A driver's licence, for example: it may not be possible for all clients to attain the plastic card in their wallet at the end of the day, but we can help them learn road rules and develop comprehension skills. We can be a shining light to steer them in the right direction to reach their full potential.”
Mr Ranger said staff were encouraged to follow their individual interests and strengths at IMPACT.
“I’ve played in bands most of my life, and enjoy being involved in the IMPACT Community Choir. And at various times they’ve called on my previous work experience to contribute to other programs and teams,” he said.
The father of four had a varied career interstate and overseas in radio, aged care and remote indigenous services before his search for a better lifestyle led him to IMPACT.
“Bundaberg ticked all the boxes – great outdoor lifestyle, affordable and not too populated, but with all the amenities,” Mr Ranger said.
“Working at IMPACT, with a nine-day fortnight and family-first policy, has given me a good work-life balance.”
Please note: This website may contain references to, or feature images, videos, and voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples who have passed away.