Tuesday, 3 December, 2024
Housing debate in the spotlight
Walk to end violence takes over Lillydale Lake
Kalorama Park Friends receive vital grant
Real Estate Liftout inside
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A Star News Group Publication
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Nev’s long service is honoured Yellingbo resident and long time volunteer Neville Sargeant first got involved at Sheep Station Creek Reserve in the 1970s. Over 50 years later he has been recognised for his service and dedication to the advancement of the reserve, as well as its protection. And still, in his 90s, Mr Sargeant remains a champion of and for the reserve, hopeful the next generation will continue in his steps. To read the full story, turn to page 10
Neville Sargeant was recognised for over 50 years of service at DEECA. (Stewart Chambers: 438277)
NDIS participants anxious over sudden music and art therapy changes...
So out of the blue By Mikayla van Loon What has been described as “so out of the blue”, changes to the way NDIS participants access music and art therapy have come to light, causing great concern for both practitioners and clients. The Australian Music Therapy Association (AMTA) was notified on Friday 22 November of an adjustment to the price guide for music therapy and the requirements for people to access these services under the Scheme.
There has also been mention of moving from individual support to group support of four or more participants. Yarra Ranges music therapist Cath Russell said there were no discussions or any form of communication that this would be happening. “[The NDIS] said we can continue to work with the clients we’re working with until February 2025. [NDIS minister] Bill Shorten has started
has had for Fletcher in his autism and high level of anxiety regulation. Having been attending one-on-one therapy since 2020, Kim said Fletcher would not manage having to access group support instead. “I don’t understand their rationale. They haven’t explained their rationale at all. How can you replicate a one on one support with an allied health professional with one in four.” To read the full story, turn to page 5
making a whole range of statements saying you can still run groups as community participation for around 30 per cent of what we currently charge,” she said. “Because we’re a therapy, we charge as a therapeutic support, like occupational therapy does and we’re a community activity.” Kim, the mother of one of Ms Russell’s clients Fletcher, said she is “extremely worried it’s going to get removed” from his suite of interventions because of the immense benefit music therapy
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