Queenslanders with Disability Network (QDN) was very pleased to celebrate the opening of their premises at 338 Turbot Street, Spring Hill, yesterday.  QDN wishes to thank Hon. Coralee O’Rourke, Minister for Communities and Minister for Disability Services and Seniors, for officially opening the office.  QDN moves to the new office after 12 years at O’Connell Terrace Bowen Hills and we look forward to continuing the work of a statewide network of people with disability, leading and influencing change.

QDN also wishes to thank Hon. Jane Prentice MP, Assistant Minister for Social Services and Disability Services, for launching the new video resource from the NDIS Targeted Strategies Initiative Getting on the NDIS Grid.  QDN is leading this work with a consortia of organisations including Community Living Association, Community Resource Unit, Micah and Queensland Council of Social Services (QCOSS).  QDN and our project partners wish to acknowledge the work of the project Peer Leaders, ensuring people with lived experience are part of the design and delivery of the work.

The “Getting on the NDIS Grid” Digital Story is about how the project is working to ensure all people eligible for National Disability Insurance Scheme can access the scheme, especially people who experience additional disadvantage.  QDN CEO, Paige Armstrong said “The project, based upon a peer led and co-design approach is using creative, interactive and innovative ways to engage with people and to assist them to have information about what the NDIS is, what is in it for them, and things they can do to access the scheme”.

During the opening ceremony Ms O’Rourke also acknowledged QDN member, Emma Le Strange, a Brisbane based artist who donated a piece of her artwork to QDN for the new office space. Emma is an emerging artist and aspiring polymath. The piece of art is called “Money in hand” and is conte crayon on paper.

QDN Board of Directors Chairperson, Nigel Webb said “The new office represents a new chapter in QDN’s history and reflects its growth and the positive future ahead”.