Aboriginal NDIS local area coordinators make a difference for Bowral community

At SSI, we are committed to providing inclusive, culturally responsive disability services that support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

We’re actively engaging with First Nations people to ensure they receive the services and supports they need. From a history of working closely with First Nations communities in programs such as Ability Links, to a firm commitment to reconciliation (which currently involves a detailed review and expansion of our 2022 Reconciliation Action Plan), to a dedicated team of Aboriginal NDIS local area coordinators (LACs).

Our local area coordination program links people with disability to the right supports and services.  A key aspect of this effort is community-based connection desks, which have been established in the communities we serve, including one held twice a month in Bowral. It is specially tailored to First Nations people in the Wingecarribee Council area and provides an accessible, welcoming space where community members can have their questions about the NDIS answered.

Kerin and Kylie, two of our Aboriginal local area coordinators, attend this connection desk, sharing yarns and their expertise of the scheme with prospective and current participants. Their work helps connect members of the community to vital supports, including peer networks and healthcare services. They also help build capacity for people to navigate the NDIS with confidence, clearing up doubts about the scheme.

Aunty Robin Young, a representative of Bowral Community Mental Health Services praised Kerin and Kylie for their dedication, cultural sensitivity, and enthusiasm.

“The health and wellbeing of those regularly cared for by the girls has greatly improved,” said Aunty Robin. She highlights the importance of following six common values that encompass the First Nations experience:

1. Spirit and integrity
2. Reciprocity (sharing)
3. Respect
4. Equality
5. Survival and protection
6. Responsibility

Kerin and Kylie uphold these values in their work, ensuring that each person’s unique needs are addressed, even when they share the same diagnosis or disability.

This personalisation of care is what Aunty Robin feels has made such a difference.

“Members of the community have developed the skills, knowledge, and broader strategies to improve their health,” she said.

For those who prefer not to attend in-person events, SSI also offers phone consultations with our Aboriginal LACs. These calls can be life-changing for people who feel less comfortable attending in-person events, or have quick questions that don’t need a face-to-face discussion.

“[This service] has benefitted the communities greatly with their emotional wellbeing and their engagement with the health service,” said Aunty Robin.

It’s clear that disability services must go beyond major metropolitan areas to reach rural and remote communities. Also, these services must be carefully tailored to the unique needs of minority groups, especially those at risk of neglect and abuse, such as First Nations people.

SSI’s Aboriginal LACs continue to build strong partnerships with local organisations, networks and groups to deliver personalised, culturally sensitive support that is not only knowledgeable, but approachable. We’re committed to ensuring that every individual, regardless of their background or location, has access to the support they need.

Learn about SSI’s range of disability services on our website. You can contact your local area coordination team at:

Phone: 1800 960 975

Email: ssilac@ndis.gov.au