DisAbility Connections

Who are we?

The Western Region Disability Network (WRDN) is a network of over 800 people with disabilities, their carers/families, service providers, government and community from across the western and northern suburbs of metropolitan Melbourne who share an interest in disability issues.

Vision

We are a passionate regional grassroots network that informs and empowers people with a disability and those who support them to have an active presence and influential voice in community and civic life.

Mission

Collectively we promote participation, leadership, equality and a voice in decision-making through information exchange and systematic advocacy by building bridges and partnerships.

What does the WRDN do?

1. Information Dissemination

* WRDN website
* Bimonthly newsletter – “Network News” (for members)
* Bimonthly forums
* One-off meetings
* Bi-annual “Communiqué” (newsletter to strategic partners).

2. Building the Ability of People with Disabilities and Carers/Families

* The WRDN is managed by a Coordinating Group elected from and by the membership
* Encouraging people to give their opinion and raise concerns
* Training
* Student placements.

3. Community Awareness Raising

* Partnerships
* The Speakers’ Bank (a group of WRDN members with disabilities who speak to groups about disability issues).

4. Systemic and Planning Advocacy (expressing the voices of disability to change laws, remove barriers and promote the inclusion of people with disabilities)

* Submissions to government
* Partnerships with decision-makers and planners (e.g. Department of Human Services, Local Government)
* Working with people and organisations who have the capacity to help change things (e.g. Victorian Electoral Commission).

Become a Member

The WRDN welcomes anyone who has an interest in disability issues in the western and northern suburbs of Melbourne to become a member of the WRDN.

Membership is open to:
* Individuals with disabilities
* Carers/family members
* Paid carers/professionals
* Organisations (disability specific and universal)
* Support groups
* Other networks
* Community members.

All ages and all disabilities.

Membership is FREE

For further information about the WRDN please contact Helen Adams, Executive Officer, by telephone on 9687 7066 or via email at wrdn@annecto.org.au

Auspice

The WRDN is auspiced by annecto, the people network.

This means that:
* all legal arrangements are made with annecto on behalf of the WRDN;
* annecto is responsible for WRDN finances and employment of staff;
* annecto does not direct WRDN activities – these are the responsibility of the Coordinating Group elected by and for the membership. The Coordinating Group consists of 5 people with disability, 3 carers and 2 service providers.

The WRDN acknowledges and thanks annecto, the people network for their ongoing and invaluable support.

About Us