I know we are all tired of hearing about COVID-19 by now. However, we must remain vigilant to ensure the situation in Australia doesn't deteriorate further. To that end, we would like to highlight the latest information from the Queensland Government that is now available in multiple languages. There are also resources available to assist organisations arrange more flexible working arrangements during this time.
It is also critical that we take extra care of those most vulnerable in our community. The MiCare community visiting scheme is a program that seeks to reduce the isolation often felt by the elderly. With social distancing policies in place, we need to find ways to remain connected. See more information on the program below. Until next month,
Cheryl
MiCare Community Visiting Scheme
MiCare is an aged care and community services provider focusing on the needs of people from a range of backgrounds. Their Community Visiting Scheme supports volunteer visits to provide friendship and companionship to older people.
Visits are available to anyone who:
receives government-funded residential aged care or home care packages;
are socially isolated.
It focuses on the needs of older people at higher risk of feeling isolated, including the special needs groups under the Aged Care Act 1997.
While visits are ordinarily face to face, due to COVID-19, face to face visits are currently on hold. The focus is instead on virtual visiting, which includes phone calls, video chats and sending letters and cards.
Legal Aid Queensland is encouraging people to learn to recognise the signs of financial control, one of the more subtle forms of domestic and family violence.
Like all forms of domestic violence, financial control happens across all ages, genders, suburbs, social and cultural groups.
Legal Aid Queensland has created a new podcast, "Law For All", in which consumer law advocates Paul Holmes and Loretta Kreet put financial financial control in the spotlight.
Many organisations will have procedures in place to accommodate flexible work arrangements. The Australian Council of Social Service has compiled a resource kit for employers to supplement these policies. Take a look below:
Stay informed about the latest developments from the Queensland Government regarding COVID-19, which are now being translated into 16 different languages.
Volunteering Sunshine Coast would like to give a big thank you to the Coastal Caring Clowns who popped into Nambour Meals on Wheels to spread some cheer in celebration of National Meals on Wheels Day.
National Meals on Wheels Day is held on the last Wednesday of August to recognise the important contribution the tens of thousands of Meals on Wheels volunteers make across Australia. Marty Hunt MP for Nicklin also dropped by to join the fun.
Cross Cultural Relationship Workshop
Join Ana Boskovic from AB Couselling for a cross cultural relationship workshop for women that will cover:
Overcoming challenges
Advantages
Information and support
Expectations (family/community etc)
When: 9.30 am - 12 noon, Monday 7 September Where: Nambour Community Centre
Numbers are limited so booking is essential.
To RSVP, email settlement@nambourcc.org or call Linda / Ana on 5441 4600 / 0402 128 978.
COVID safe event. Morning tea will be provided.
Changes to the Blue Card System
Changes have been made to the blue card system effective as of 31 August 2020.
These changes affect applicants, card holders and organisations.
Important: If you had a paid blue card application in progress when the new laws started, you can continue working while your application is assessed.
The changes include:
the No Card, No Start law—you cannot work or volunteer in a position requiring a blue card until your application is approved
a new rule for expiring cards—if you don’t renew by the expiry date, you will be subject to the No Card, No Start law and cannot work
stricter requirements for people who rely on an exemption to work or volunteer with children—through the introduction of the termsrestricted person and restricted employment, and associated offences
a new frequency test—if you only work 7 or fewer days in a calendar year, a blue card may not be required. This does not apply if you operate a business
