Key Points

• As part of a new trial, Kirinari will deliver expanded Community Transport services in regional NSW.
• The aim of the trial is to provide affordable and reliable transport to regional people who need help getting to work or study.
• The trial will help address transport barriers experienced by regional students, trainees, and apprentices.
• If you are an apprentice, trainee or student at TAFE NSW or other registered training organisation, and need help with transport, call us on 1800 590 590 to learn more.

Summary

Kirinari is partnering with Transport for NSW to provide expanded Community Transport services to students, trainees, and apprentices.

Outline

• Helping apprentices, trainees, and TAFE students in regional NSW
• Why this matters
• Am I eligible?
• Where can I find out more?

Helping apprentices, trainees, and TAFE students in regional NSW

As part of a new trial aimed at helping people in regional NSW get to study, training, or work, Kirinari has partnered with Transport for NSW to deliver expanded Community Transport services.

This means that if you are an apprentice, trainee or student at TAFE NSW or other registered training organisation and need help getting around – we can help.

Why this matters

Transport can often be a barrier to regional people wanting to access work or study. Currently, Community Transport services are only available to eligible seniors, pensioners, people with accessibility needs and those who have limited access to public transport.

Kirinari’s Head of Transport services, Alannah Gallagher believes the trial will address a significant gap in service availability, saying, “The existing community transport program excludes anyone needing transport to access work or education.

“This new trial will allow us to demonstrate the demand for these services – and meet what is now a significant need in our communities”

Am I eligible?

You may be eligible if you:

• Attend in-person study or training, or travel to and from work as an apprentice or trainee.
• Have limited or no access to private or public transport because of where you live, or need to travel to, or
• Have cost or accessibility needs.

You’re not eligible if you:  

• Have access to public or private transport.
• Already receive government-funded transport for TAFE NSW, a registered training organisation, an apprenticeship, a traineeship or other training.
• Receive the School Drive Subsidy.
• Are travelling between home and primary or secondary school or are travelling to or from university.

Where can I find out more?

If you live in regional NSW and want to know more about the Community Transport trial and whether you’re eligible to participate, call our transport team on 1800 590 590.

The post New Community Transport Trial appeared first on Kirinari.

• The Support at Home program helps older Australians stay safe and independent at home
• Services are grouped into clinical supports, independence services and everyday living
• Some everyday costs, like groceries, rent and bills, are not included
• Personal care will move to clinical supports from October 2026
• Understanding your rights can help you make informed choices about your care

Summary

The Support at Home program provides services to help older Australians live safely and independently at home. This guide explains what is included, what is not covered, and how the service list is structured across clinical supports, independence services and everyday living.

Outline

• What is the Support at Home program?
• Support at Home service list at a glance
• Clinical supports: what’s included and what’s not
• Independence services: what’s included and what’s not
• Everyday living: what’s included and what’s not
• Understanding your rights
• How Kirinari can help

The Support at Home program is designed to help older Australians live safely and independently at home.

It brings in-home aged care services together under one program. This can make it easier to understand what support is available and how it fits your needs.

Understanding the Support at Home program inclusions and exclusions can help you plan your care with more confidence.

What is the Support at Home program?

The Support at Home program provides funding for services that help you stay well, safe and independent at home.

Your services are based on your needs, goals and care plan. This means your support should be tailored to your daily life, not treated as one-size-fits-all.

The new aged care system also places more focus on rights, choice and safe care. This means older people should have a say in the services they use, how they access them and who provides them.

Support at Home service list at a glance

The Support at Home service list is grouped into three main contribution categories:

• clinical supports
• independence services
• everyday living

Across these categories, the service list includes 14 service types and 49 services.

Each service type explains what is in scope and what is out of scope. This helps you understand what may be funded and what you may need to pay for yourself.

Clinical supports: what’s included and what’s not

Clinical supports are services that help maintain or improve your health, function and wellbeing.

These may include:

• nursing care
• allied health and therapy
• nutrition support
• restorative care management

These services must be delivered or supervised by trained health professionals where required.

Clinical support may include help with wound care, medication support, continence care, allied health treatment, care planning and service coordination.

They do not usually include services that are better funded through another system, such as hospital care, medical treatment, dental care or some specialist health services.

From October 2026, personal care will move from the independence category to the clinical supports category. This means approved personal care services, such as help with showering, dressing and non-clinical continence support, can be delivered with no out-of-pocket cost where funding is available.

Independence services: what’s included and what’s not

Independence services help you manage daily life and stay connected to your community.

These may include:

• personal care
• social support
• community engagement
• cultural support
• digital support
• transport
• respite
• assistive technology
• home modifications

These services can help with everyday activities such as attending appointments, staying socially connected, using technology, accessing the community and maintaining independence.

Some costs are not included. This may include activity fees, tickets, accommodation, membership fees, car costs, licence costs, public transport fares or holiday travel.

Everyday living: what’s included and what’s not

Everyday living services help keep your home safe, clean and liveable.

These may include:

• domestic assistance
• laundry
• shopping assistance
• light gardening
• minor home maintenance
• meal preparation
• meal delivery

For example, domestic assistance may include light cleaning, washing dishes, laundry or accompanied shopping.

Home maintenance may include light gardening or small repairs that help keep your home safe. Meals may include support to prepare food at home or access pre-prepared meals.

The program does not cover general living expenses. This can include:

• rent or mortgage payments
• utility bills
• groceries and ingredients
• takeaway food delivery
• pet care
• professional cleaning or gardening that would usually be paid for privately

Understanding your rights

Under the new Aged Care Act, older people have rights when accessing aged care services.

These include the right to:

• make decisions about your care
• receive safe and quality services
• be treated with dignity and respect
• access information in a way you understand
• raise concerns or make a complaint without fear
• stay connected to important people, pets, culture and community

You also have the right to understand what your services cost and how your care is delivered.

If you have a concern, you can speak with your provider. You can also ask a family member, supporter or advocate to help you raise your concern.

How Kirinari can help

At Kirinari, we support you to understand your options and get the most from your Support at Home plan.

We can help you:

• understand what services may be available
• build a care plan around your needs
• explain what may be covered and what you may need to pay
• coordinate services over time
• adjust support as your needs change
• stay independent and safe at home

You can learn more about in-home aged care services at Kirinari here.

Or get in touch with our team to discuss your options.

The post Support at Home services: what’s included and what’s not appeared first on Kirinari.

“When organisations invest in authentic Aboriginal artwork, they’re creating opportunities to acknowledge Country, celebrate First Nations cultures and start conversations that may not have happened otherwise.”

Chloe Eastwood, Bindi Bindi Art

Back in March, we announced an exciting opportunity for First Nations artists to design a signature artwork reflecting Kirinari’s First Nations story, identity and commitment to inclusion, respect and cultural connection.

This NAIDOC Week, we’re proud to introduce the talented artists whose design has been commissioned to bring this vision to life, telling our First Nations story, and symbolising our commitment to meaningful Reconciliation.

Meet Tay’la Shearley and Chloe Eastwood

Tay-la, a proud Wiradjuri woman, and Chloe, a proud Ngemba woman, both grew up – and continue to live – on Dharug country, an area encompassing the greater Sydney basin.

Partners in life and in art, they work to create contemporary Aboriginal artworks that celebrate connection to Country, community and culture.

Together they are Bindi Bindi Art.

The artistic journey

For both Tay’la and Chloe, art has always been important.

Chloe, a third-generation Aboriginal artist, grew up watching and learning from her father and grandfather. Storytelling through art was passed down through the generations, and creating artwork was a natural way to connect with culture and continue that legacy.

For Tay-la, painting became a way to strengthen her connection to her Wiradjuri heritage and explore culture through creativity.

“Aboriginal art is so much more than creating something beautiful. Every artwork tells a story, it represents people, Country, journeys, relationships and shared experiences.

“The most rewarding part is seeing people connect with the finished artwork and knowing those stories will continue to be shared long after we’ve finished creating them.”

Bindi Bindi Art

Since its inception, Bindi Bindi Art has gone from strength to strength, collaborating with organisations across Australia to create meaningful and culturally informed artworks that celebrate connection, community, and culture.

“For us, it’s about creating meaningful connections rather than simply creating artwork,” said Chloe.

“When organisations invest in authentic Aboriginal artwork, they’re creating opportunities to acknowledge Country, celebrate First Nations cultures and start conversations that may not have happened otherwise.”

Kirinari

Tay’la and Chloe were excited to tender to design an artwork that told the Kirinari First Nations story – and thrilled when they learned their submission had been successful.

Both Tay’la and Chloe resonated with Kirinari’s commitment to supporting people to live meaningful, independent lives within their own communities.

“We wanted to capture more than just the services Kirinari provides,” said Tay’la.

“We wanted to tell a story about connection, belonging, trust and the relationships that help people thrive. It was important to us that the artwork authentically reflected Kirinari’s purpose while celebrating Aboriginal culture in a meaningful and respectful way.”

And for Tay’la and Chloe, who have a child with a disability, this was personal.

 “Having a child with a disability has given us a deeper appreciation for the importance of organisations that genuinely support individuals and families,” explained Chloe.

“We understand how much it means to feel connected, respected and empowered, and those values are reflected in the work Kirinari does every day.”

NAIDOC Week 2026

Tay’la believes one of the most important things about NAIDOC Week is that it reminds people that their culture is not just a part of history – it’s alive, it’s strong, and it’s continuing to grow.

“We’re still telling our stories, practising culture and creating new pathways for future generations.

Tay’la also talks about the opportunity NAIDOC Week offers non-Indigenous people, inviting them to get involved, ask questions, learn and celebrate alongside First Nations Peoples.

“Those conversations help build understanding and stronger relationships, and that’s how real reconciliation happens.”

What next?

Tay’la and Chloe hope is to continue creating opportunities for connection through art.

We want to keep working with organisations that are genuinely committed to reconciliation and cultural safety, helping them tell their stories in a way that’s respectful, authentic and meaningful,” says Chloe.

“As Aboriginal artists, we feel a responsibility to help educate people through storytelling. Art has a unique way of opening conversations and making culture accessible.

“We hope our work contributes to a future where Aboriginal culture is not only recognised during NAIDOC Week, but celebrated, respected and embedded in everyday life.”

The post NAIDOC Week 2025: Meet the First Nations women telling our story through art appeared first on Kirinari.

• SIL supports daily living for people with higher support needs
• It covers help with tasks like personal care, cooking, and routines
• SIL does not cover rent or housing costs
• Eligibility depends on your support needs and NDIS plan
• SIL and SDA are different and often confused

Summary

Supported Independent Living (SIL) helps people with disability live more independently with daily support. This guide explains what SIL funding covers, what it does not include, and how it differs from Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA).

Outline

• What is SIL in the NDIS?
• What does SIL cover?
• What does SIL not cover?
• Who is eligible for SIL?
• SIL vs SDA: what’s the difference?
• How do you get SIL in your NDIS plan?
• How Kirinari can help

Supported Independent Living (SIL) is NDIS funding that provides daily support to help you live as independently as possible. It covers help with everyday tasks like personal care, cooking, and routines, while also building your skills over time. If you need regular support at home, SIL may be part of your NDIS plan.

What is SIL in the NDIS?

SIL stands for Supported Independent Living.

It is funding that helps you with everyday tasks and ongoing support needs, so you can live as independently as possible.

This support is usually provided in a shared home or supported living environment, but may also be available in other living arrangements depending on your needs.

SIL is one of several home and living supports available under the NDIS, and other options may be more suitable depending on your situation.

What does SIL cover?

SIL funding covers support with daily living tasks, such as:

• personal care (showering, dressing)
• cooking and meal preparation
• cleaning and household tasks
• help with routines and daily structure
• supervision for safety and wellbeing
• support to build everyday living skills

It may also include support to:

• attend appointments
• access the community
• follow behaviour support plans

The goal is to help you live more independently over time.

What does SIL not cover?

SIL funding does not cover:

• rent or mortgage payments
• utility bills
• groceries
• personal expenses

It only covers the support, not the cost of living itself.

Who is eligible for SIL?

SIL is generally for people who:

• need support throughout most of the day
• require overnight support
• have higher or complex support needs

In many cases, this means support is needed 7 days a week, including overnight.

Eligibility is based on your NDIS plan, your goals, and an assessment of your daily support needs.

SIL vs SDA: what’s the difference?

This is a common point of confusion.

• SIL = support services (help with daily living)
• SDA (Specialist Disability Accommodation) = housing

SDA funding covers the cost of the home itself, while SIL covers the support you receive inside it.

You may receive one or both, depending on your needs.

How do you get SIL in your NDIS plan?

To receive SIL funding, you need to show that it is the right support for your needs.

This usually involves:

• assessments or reports about your support needs
• information about your daily routine
• your goals for independent living

The NDIS will look at whether SIL is the best option compared to other supports.

You may also work with a support coordinator or provider to develop a plan that outlines the level of support you need.

How Kirinari can help

At Kirinari, we provide supported living services that help you live independently with the right level of care. We can help you:

• understand your NDIS plan
• find suitable SIL accommodation
• access available housing vacancies
• build a support plan that works for you

You can learn more about in-home care services here and supported living services at Kirinari here.

Or to view our current accommodation vacancies here.

Get in touch with our team to discuss your options.

At Kirinari, we deliver trusted Supported Independent Living (SIL) options throughout regional New South Wales, Victoria, and Tasmania. Whether you are searching for a home in Orange, Dubbo, Albury, Tamworth, Broken Hill, Forster, Wagga Wagga, or Port Macquarie, or looking across the border in Wodonga or Hobart, our team is here to help you find the perfect fit.

The post What does SIL funding actually cover under the NDIS? appeared first on Kirinari.

• The 2026 national Census will take place on Tuesday, 11 August 2026.
• The Census is a nationwide survey that counts everyone in Australia and collects information about who we are and how we live.
• It is compulsory to participate in the Census.
• Support to help you understand and complete the Census is available.

Summary

Census night will take place on Tuesday 11 August 2026, and everyone in Australia is asked to participate. We’ve taken a closer look at the Census to find out what it is, why it’s important, and how we can make sure we’re counted.

Outline

• Introduction
• What is the Census?
• Why is the Census important?
• How to complete the Census
• What information you’ll need
• Completing a separate Census form
• Support to complete the Census
• Make sure you’re counted!

Introduction

Every five years, Australians are asked to take part in the Census. This is more than just another form to fill out. The Census plays a vital role in shaping the future of all our communities, and with the 2026 Census fast approaching, we thought we should unpack some of the details.

What is the Census?

The Census is a nationwide survey that counts everyone in Australia and collects information about who we are and how we live. It captures details about each of us, our households and dwellings, providing a clear snapshot of the population.

In 2026, Census night will take place on Tuesday 11 August 2026, and everyone in Australia on that night must be included in a Census form.

Why is the Census important?

The Census is more than just a data collection exercise—it directly influences decisions that affect our everyday lives. The Information collected helps governments, businesses, and community organisations plan for:

• Transport and roads
• Schools and education services
• Hospitals and healthcare
• Housing and infrastructure
• Local community services

By participating, you help ensure your community receives the services and funding it needs. Participation is also compulsory under the Census and Statistics Act 1905, and you can be fined for failing to take part.

How to complete the Census

From late July 2026, households will receive instructions on how to complete the Census, and if you know where you’ll be on Census night you can complete it straight away.

Most people will:

• Receive a letter with a Census number and temporary password
• Complete the form online

If you would prefer to complete a paper form, you can request one. Some households, especially in regional or remote areas, may automatically be sent paper forms.

In 2026, you can also complete the Census through myGov.

Simply sign in to myGov and subscribe to Census updates. You will then receive a notification in your myGov inbox that will enable you to access the Census online.

Information you’ll need

To complete your Census form, you’ll need details about:

• Everyone staying in your household on Census night including family members, house mates, and visitors
• Children and babies
• Anyone who usually lives there but is away

Information collected includes:

• Basic details (name, age, date of birth)
• Cultural background (ancestry, language, religion)
• Education and employment
• Health and wellbeing
• Housing details (rent, mortgage, vehicles)

Some questions (such as gender and sexual orientation for people aged 16 and over) are optional.

Completing a separate Census form

If you want to fill in your Census separately from your household, you’ll be able to request a Census number so you can complete it online or get a paper form. You can find out more here

Support to complete the Census

The ABS provides a wide range of support to ensure everyone can participate, including:

• Translated materials for culturally and linguistically diverse communities
• Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National)
• National Relay Service (NRS) for people who are deaf or hard of hearing
• Pop-up hubs and help sessions in local communities

For remote Indigenous communities, Census staff will visit between July and September, conducting face-to-face interviews to ensure culturally appropriate participation.

If you need help completing your Census form, visit Help and support | Census Information

Make sure you’re counted!

The Census is a snapshot of Australia that helps shape the future of our country. By completing your Census in 2026, you’re helping build better services, stronger communities, and get a clearer picture of who we are as a nation in 2026.

Don’t forget to complete the Census on Tuesday, 11 August 2026.

The post Census 2026 – what it is and why it’s important appeared first on Kirinari.

The program gives job seekers the opportunity to gain skills, real work experience, and take steps toward future employment goals over a six-month placement.

Michelle is completing her placement within Rise Training: Kirinari’s social enterprise providing employment training to people with disability. At Rise Training, Michelle helps trainees develop their skills and supports the team in day-to-day tasks.

“I have enjoyed meeting new people and getting out more,” she says.

Connecting with colleagues and trainees has been a highlight of her placement.

“Talking with everyone and supporting the trainees has made me feel happy and part of the team,” she says.

Learning new skills has also given her a sense of purpose and direction.

“It makes me excited to learn more about how I can support people,” Michelle says.

The experience has helped her think about the work she wants to do in the future.

“Seeing the customers happy makes me happy too and has confirmed that support work is the path I want to follow,” she says.

Kirinari is proud to be part of the WorkFoundations program, helping job seekers like Michelle build confidence, learn practical skills, and take meaningful steps toward their career goals.

The post Michelle’s story: Finding purpose through WorkFoundations appeared first on Kirinari.

• The Federal Government has announced some changes to Support at Home.
• From October 2026, the Government will fully subsidise the cost of personal care services like showering and grooming.
• This change will benefit older people and their families by making essential home care services more affordable.
• The Government has also announced, a delay in price caps on services, stronger consumer protections, and greater price transparency.

Summary

The Commonwealth Government has announced changes to the Support at Home program. We’ve taken a closer look at what’s changing and how it might make things easier for you and your family member.

Outline

• Introduction
• Personal care to be fully funded
• Who will benefit?
• What happens until October 2026?
• Other important Budget announcements
• Why these changes matter

Introduction

The Commonwealth Government recently announced changes to the Support at Home program. These changes, confirmed when the Federal budget was handed down in May, will ensure vital home care services are more affordable for older Australians.

Personal care to be fully funded

From October 2026 the Commonwealth Government will fully subsidise the cost of personal care services. This mean you won’t be asked to contribute to the cost of essential supports like:

• Showering and bathing
• Dressing and grooming
• Mobility assistance
• Non-clinical continence care

Who will benefit?

The decision to fully fund personal care will make a meaningful difference to Support at Home participants who, from October, will not be required to contribute to the cost of their personal care.

What happens until October 2026?

The changes are expected to be introduced in October 2026.

Until then:

• The current co-contribution model for personal care services remains in place
• Older Australians entering the program before this date will still need to contribute to personal care costs
• Providers and families can begin planning ahead, knowing costs for personal care services will be fully subsidised from October.

Other important Budget announcements

The Government has also announced further adjustments aimed at strengthening the Support at Home program.

• Delay to price caps

Following feedback from providers, consumers and advocacy groups, plans to introduce price caps on services from 1 July 2026 have been deferred, meaning that for now, providers will continue to set their own fees.

As yet, no new date has been announced, and the Government continues to monitor the market and gather further evidence before making any final decisions.

• Stronger consumer protections

The Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission will be given greater powers to ensure providers are transparent and accountable, and will be able to:

1. Order refunds where providers have overcharged aged care consumers
2. Take action against providers who fail to issue monthly statements
3. Publicly report on investigations and enforcement outcomes

• Greater price transparency

A new National Summary of Support at Home Prices will also be introduced and published quarterly. This report will show:

1. Median service prices
2. Pricing ranges across providers

This will make it easier for older Australians and their families to compare the pricing across different providers and make more informed decisions about their care.

Why these changes matter

These changes mark an important step toward making Support at Home more affordable and accessible for older Australians.

Stronger consumer protections mean older people can raise concerns with confidence, knowing that they will be addressed, while greater price transparency will help families make informed decisions about their care.

And, perhaps most importantly, the removal of co-contributions for personal care means older people will be able to access these vital supports more easily, acknowledging that these supports are not optional – they are fundamental to the dignity, safety and independence of older people who wish to age well and safely at home.

You can learn more about in-home aged care services at Kirinari here.

Or get in touch with our team to discuss your options.

The post Changes to Support at Home: what it means for you appeared first on Kirinari.

• Support at Home covers meal preparation and meal delivery
• You may be able to choose your own provider depending on your location
• Meal delivery costs vary, while preparation may require a contribution
• Contributions for meal preparation can be up to 17.5% based on your income and assessment
• Meals support helps you stay independent and well-nourished

Summary:

Support at Home meal services help you prepare food at home or access delivered meals. These services support your health and independence while living at home. This guide explains what’s included, how costs work, and what to expect.

Outline:

1. Introduction
2. What are meals under Support at Home?
3. How does meal support work?
4. Can I choose my own meal provider?
5. How do co-contributions work for meals?
6. What is not included in meal support?
7. Costs and considerations
8. When meal support can help most
9. Pros and considerations
10. Is meal support right for you?
11. Talk to Kirinari about your options

Support at Home meals help you stay well-nourished while living independently. This can include help with cooking at home or meals delivered to your door. If you are exploring aged care at home, meal support is one of the most common services.

What are meals under Support at Home?

Meals under the Support at Home program can include two types of support:

• Meal preparation at home: someone helps you cook meals in your home
• Meal delivery services: ready-made meals delivered to your door

The type of support you receive depends on your care plan and what suits your situation.
You can learn more about in-home aged care services at Kirinari here.

How does meal support work?

Meal support is arranged through your provider as part of your care plan.
At Kirinari, your care partner will help you:

• understand your needs
• choose the right support
• organise services that fit your routine

Your plan can change over time as your needs change.

Can I choose my own meal provider?

In many cases, yes.
This depends on what providers are available in your area.

Common options include:

• Lite n’ Easy
• Meals on Wheels

Your provider will make sure the service meets program requirements.

How do co-contributions work for meals?

You may need to contribute to the cost of meals.

• Meal delivery: costs are set by the provider
• Meal preparation: based on your assessment

For meal preparation, the maximum contribution is up to 17.5%, but your actual rate may be lower depending on your situation.
Your Support at Home provider will explain this clearly before services begin.

What is not included in meal support?

It’s just as important to understand what is not covered.
Support at Home meals do not include:

• the cost of groceries or ingredients
• takeaway or restaurant food
• meals for other members of your household

This keeps the support focused on your needs.

Costs and considerations

Costs can vary depending on:

• the service you choose
• your personal contribution rate
• your care plan

Your provider will explain all costs before you begin. If you’d like help understanding your options, you can speak with our team here.

When meal support can help most

Meal support can make a big difference if you:

• find cooking difficult
• have specific dietary needs
• want to save time and energy
• need support to stay healthy at home

It can also reduce stress for family members.

Pros and considerations

Benefits

• supports healthy eating
• saves time and effort
• flexible options to suit your needs
• helps you stay independent

Things to consider

• some costs may apply
• meal provider availability varies
• availability depends on your care plan

Meal support may suit you if you:

• want help preparing meals
• prefer ready-made options
• need support to maintain a balanced diet

You can explore Kirinari’s full range of home care services here.

Understanding your options is the first step to getting the right support.

At Kirinari, we can help you:

• choose the right meal support
• set up services that suit your lifestyle
• adjust your plan over time

Get in touch today with our team or call 1300 547 462

The post Support at Home meals explained: what’s included and how it works appeared first on Kirinari.

• Recent changes to aged care laws have strengthened the rights and protections of older Australians receiving care services.
• The new Statement of Rights supports older people to make their own decisions, be treated with respect, and feel safe.
• Aged care providers must offer clear and accessible ways for people to provide feedback, raise concerns, or make complaints.
• Independent support is available through advocacy organisations and the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission.

Summary: 

Older Australians now have stronger rights and protections under Australia’s updated aged care laws. The new Statement of Rights places choice, dignity, respect, and safety at the centre of aged care in home services. People receiving care are encouraged to speak up about concerns and can access simple complaint processes to help resolve issues. Independent advocacy and regulatory bodies are also available to provide advice, support, and assistance when needed.

Older people now have stronger rights and protections following recent changes to aged care laws in Australia.

These changes include a Statement of Rights for older people receiving aged care services. They include the right to make your own decisions, to be respected, and to feel safe.

At Kirinari, it is our responsibility to ensure that these rights are upheld and that you are placed at the centre of your aged care experience.

We encourage you to talk to us if you have any concerns or questions about your care or services. It is an obligation for us to provide a complaints process that is easy to understand and access.

We’re committed to providing you with safe, quality care that meets your needs and preferences. Raising your concerns with us is often the most effective way to resolve things. It is always safe to speak up.

You can provide feedback, raise a concern or make a complaint by visiting: https://kirinari.com.au/feedback/

You can also choose to have a family member or supporter raise a concern on your behalf. If you need help making a complaint or finding information, contact the Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) for free, independent, and confidential support. Call the Aged Care Advocacy Line on 1800 700 600.

The Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission is the national regulator of government funded aged care services. You can contact the Commission if you’d like independent advice or support in raising a concern.

To contact the Commission:

• Call 1800 951 822 between 9am – 5pm Monday to Friday
• Write to Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission, GPO Box 9819, in your capital city
• Email info@agedcarequality.gov.au

The post Choice, dignity, respect – your rights in aged care appeared first on Kirinari.

WorkFoundations is a paid employment program that gives job seekers the chance to build skills, gain real work experience and work towards future employment goals over a six-month placement.

Matt is completing his placement with EnviroCulture, where he’s working in landscaping and taking on a wide range of hands-on tasks including mowing, whipper-snippering, mulching, fencing, planting, sanding and irrigation.

Before joining WorkFoundations, Matt had never had a job. He says not having work experience made it hard to get started.

“I didn’t get a job when I was a kid, so I didn’t have any experience.”

Since starting his placement, Matt says he’s proud of the way he’s committed to showing up.

“I haven’t skipped a day. I’ve tried to push myself outside of my comfort zone.”

That effort has helped build his confidence too, especially when it comes to talking to new people.

“I’m more confident talking to people I don’t know.”

The routine of work has also brought change to Matt’s day-to-day life, and the experience is helping him learn more about the kind of path he wants to take.

“It’s given me a little bit more clarity about what I do or don’t want to do in my career.”

And when asked what he’s most excited about for the next few months, Matt’s answer is refreshingly honest.

“To see how much is in my bank account.”

For Matt, the opportunity has been about more than just learning practical skills, it’s also been a chance to get real experience.

“The program is great because there are friendly, understanding people and I’ve got my foot in the door with some real experience.”

Kirinari is proud to be part of the WorkFoundations program, supporting job seekers like Matt as they build skills, confidence and experience for the future.

The post Matt’s story: Building confidence and gaining real experience appeared first on Kirinari.