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Waitress wearing a mask outside a cafe

The NSW Government launched the Dine and Discover NSW voucher scheme to encourage the community to get out and about, to support  dining, arts and tourism businesses, and to stimulate spending in the economy. 

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stack of blue surgical masks. IDEAS does information so you can do life.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, wearing a face mask is now mandatory or strongly recommended in some situations and some places. In some situations, wearing a face mask will not be appropriate for people with some disabilities, physical or mental health conditions. 

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A close up of a blue 2021 diary. A woman in a blue floral shirt is holding the diary to her chest, and a pen in her hand.

If you struggle with New Year’s Resolutions, this might be the year to try something new.

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A white landline telephone with large black buttons has number in white. A person is hovering a finger over the buttons. Spectacles can be seen at the top right of the image.

If you or someone you live with has a serious medical condition, you may be able to access Priority Assistance Service for your landline.

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A pale blue hard bound book, with the words "gratitude journal" written on the front cover in a mixture of cursive and plain text rests on a timber tabletop.

There is always something different about the start of a new year. It is like a fresh start, a new beginning, and it holds hope for the future. Let’s not hide that 2020 was a rough year, yet, let’s give ourselves a chance to hope again, a refresh. Hope helps motivate us, and it can also help us when we have to wait.

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A group of University students are moving into a shared flat. They are surrounded by boxes. One student is in a manual wheelchair.

Moving Day. It's not quite travelling, not quite a day out. Most people find moving stressful. Usually, the change coincides with a big life event. Like leaving home for the first time, going away to study, moving for work, or settling into a long-term relationship. Moving day can go as smooth as possible with a few "travel-ish"and "day-out"tips. Add a positive can-do attitude and hope for good weather.

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Small boy doing Maths on a laptop

For a child with disability and additional learning needs, it is advisable for parents and carers to meet with their school principal and the school’s learning and support team with plenty of time for discussion, research and planning.

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Young man looking at shirts in a shop

'Quiet Space' shopping hours (Wednesday 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm) have been introduced into some Kmart stores to provide a low-sensory shopping experience. This dedicated shopping period is for shoppers who are or who have a family member on the autism spectrum. It may also be a popular time for people who prefer a quieter and calmer atmosphere when they are browsing and shopping.

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An elderly man drinking coffee

Recently I was having afternoon tea with one of my daughters at the local bakery, and reading her final Primary school report. The elderly fellow at the next table, a widower of Italian heritage, who I shall call Antonio* asked, “Is it a good one?”

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AUTISM written with colourful alphabet magnets, resting on hands

Autism Connect is Australia’s first Autism Helpline delivering national service. It is rolling out across Australia and by mid-2021 will be available nation-wide.