June 15, 2023
A free service to help older Australians connect with helpful local services is now operating in the South Burnett.
ADA Link is run by Aged and Disability Advocacy Australia, a not-for-profit, independent advocacy and education service.
It is part of the Federal Government’s Care Finer program which was spawned from recommendations from the Aged Care Royal Commission.
It aims to break down the complexities that confront many people when they seek to navigate the aged care system.
But manager Terri-Ann Dwyer said ADA Link was about more than just aged care.
“We connect people with other services that are available in the community to enable people to stay at home longer and more safely,” she said.
The service targets the people who are “almost invisible”, who tend to stay away from – or don’t know how to access – government services.
ADA Link’s supports are available for First Nations residents aged 45 and above; and for non-Indigenous residents aged from 50.
The local ADA Link worker is Leanne Rose, who works with people face-to-face in their homes rather than from an office.
She began working in the South Burnett in May and already has six clients that she is actively working with.
CEO Geoff Rowe said ADA Australia had a 30-year history in providing advocacy support to Queensland seniors.
“ADA Australia has been part of the development of the national Care Finder service from its early beginnings,’’ Mr Rowe said.
ADA Link operates on a referral basis.
Members of the community, or organisations, can refer a senior whom they believe could benefit from support.
Leanne will then work to connect them to the right local service in the aged care, health, finance or social sectors.
To contact ADA Link or make a referral, call 1800-818-338 or email info@adalink.com.au
