Many people with disability – and their families, carers, support workers and providers – may be concerned about or affected by coronavirus (COVID-19).
A new service called the Disability Gateway is available for people with disability who need help because of coronavirus (COVID-19).
It can help families, carers, support workers and services, too.
You can contact the Disability Gateway on 1800 643 787 to talk about your concerns in relation to coronavirus (COVID-19). For example, call the Gateway if:
• it’s hard for you to get food, groceries, medications or other essential items
• someone close to you has symptoms of coronavirus
• you need help understanding the Public Health Orders or restrictions in your state/territory
• need support in accessing the COVID-19 vaccine or test
The Disability Gateway can refer people to advocacy, counselling, and other supports people may need such as housing, transport or accessing the community.
The Disability Gateway is available Monday to Friday 8am to 8pm (AEST). It’s not available on national public holidays.
The Disability Gateway is free, private and fact-checked.
When you call the Disability Gateway, you will speak to a person who will:
• Listen carefully to you.
• Use their connections to find things out, check the facts, and get information for you.
• Transfer you to services that can help you.
• Transfer you to a phone counsellor for emotional support, if you would like.
• Give you clear and accessible information.
If you have experienced or are currently experiencing abuse, neglect, violence or exploitation, and you are distressed or anxious about coronavirus, the Disability Gateway can put you in touch with phone counselling specialist services who helps people experiencing distress. The counsellor can also refer people to longer term trauma counsellors for ongoing support.
For more information about the Disability Gateway including Easy Read and Auslan resources about coronavirus, visit www.dss.gov.au/disabilityhelp