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VICTORIAN EVENTS

For a full summary of Upcoming Events, click here

 

PROGRAMS AND GROUPS

  • Are you interested in information about Parent Support Groups? Click here
  • Are you after details of Parent Education Programs? Click here
  • For details on Professional Development Programs - click here

 

PARENT SUPPORT GROUPS

Click here for a list of Parent Support Groups listed by area.

 

PARENT EDUCATION PROGRAMS

 

Autism Victoria Information Sessions

Introducing Autism Spectrum Disorders - a two-hour information session to assist parents of newly diagnosed children, held monthly during the day at Carlton, or other locations by arrangement.  The info sessions are free for members. For further details, download pdf flyer here.  Email counsellor2@autismvictoria.org.au for bookings.

Information sessions are also run on a number of other topics, such as ASDs and Core Strategies (next session 4th June 2010) or ASDs and Anxiety (next session 27th July 2010). For more information email counsellor2@autismvictoria.org.au.

 

Early Days Workshops

Introductory Workshop. Early Days is an Australia-wide program providing mothers, fathers and other carers of young children (0-6 yrs) with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) with information and practical help. Early Days is an Australian Government Initiative and is free of charge. Please contact 1800 334 155 or www.earlydays.net.au to register. Upcoming workshop dates and locations are as follows:

28th July Bayswater Closed
28th August Carlton Call 1800 334 155 to register
4th September Carlton Call 1800 334 155 to register
25th September Carlton Call 1800 334 155 to register

 

Skills Workshops. These workshops provide mothers, fathers and other family carers with skills and strategies for promoting their child’s development. The topics covered promote child development in the areas most affected by ASD. Developed by experts in ASD and early intervention, these workshops teach skills that complement those covered by early intervention programs and services and will give you practical strategies for how you can support your child’s development at home. For more information about the skills workshops on offer, click here. Upcoming workshops are outlined below.

 

First steps for learning: Connecting with your child

Learning to communicate and interact with others begins with basic skills for connecting. Skills like making eye contact and sharing attention are important for children with ASD. If your child can focus on you, and focus on something else together with you, they have taken important first steps towards further learning. In this workshop, you will learn how to promote these ‘connection’ skills in your child, and learn ways to build on these skills at home.

    NEW WORKSHOPS COMING SOON!

 

Helping your child with play

Children with ASD often spend a lot of time playing alone. Learning how to play with others or enjoy ‘pretend play’ can be difficult. This workshop will provide you with some practical tips for promoting play skills in your child.

14th August

Malvern

Call 1800 334 155 to register
21st August Taylors Lakes Call 1800 334 155 to register
4th September Hawthorn Call 1800 334 155 to register
11th September Coburg Call 1800 334 155 to register

 

Siblings: What you can do to help.

Mothers, fathers and family carers often worry about how siblings will react to having a brother or sister with ASD. This workshop will provide you with information about sibling wellbeing, coping, and ideas and strategies for promoting the wellbeing of all children in your family.

Developed by RMIT School of Health Sciences (Division of Psychology) in partnership with the Early Days Collaboration, this workshop is for mothers, fathers and other family carers who:

  • Have a child aged six and under who has an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or is currently in the process of assessment AND
  • Have another child aged four and over who is growing up with their sibling with autism

The workshop is currently being delivered in venues around metropolitan Melbourne only – it may be offered in other locations later in the year. For more information, click here. Upcoming dates and locations are provided below.

27th July Footscray Call 1800 334 155 to register
31st July Bundoora Call 1800 334 155 to register
8th August Doncaster Call 1800 334 155 to register
17th August Melbourne Call 1800 334 155 to register
24th August Malvern Call 1800 334 155 to register

Telephone Workshops. These group workshops are conducted over the telephone with an Early Days facilitator. Call 1800 334 155 to register for these workshops.

13th July Understanding ASD
20th July Learning about Early Intervention
27th July Choosing Therapies and Interventions

 

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS

Become an ABA Therapist

ABIA offer a three-day training program that covers topics needed to become an effective and professionally trained Applied Behavioural Analysis (ABA) therapist.  The program covers both theoretical and practical aspects to practice as an effective ABA therapist and work with children with an Autism Spectrum Disorder. If you are interested in learning more about Autism and behavioural intervention, this training program is highly recommended.

The training program is offered monthly at the ABIA office, Suite 2, 437 Canterbury Road, Surrey Hills from 9.30am - 4.30pm. Click on the registration form for dates and costs. For further information, contact info@abia.net.au or phone 9830 0677.

This program is approved for Helping Children with Autism/FaHCSIA funding.

 

VICTORIAN EVENTS

Click on each event to go to the details

Ongoing Events

Various Dates: Early Days Workshops - Introductory Workshops

Various Dates: Early Days Workshops - Skills Workshops

Various Dates: Early Days Workshops - Telephone Workshops

Various Dates: Become an ABA Therapist

School Terms: Social Skills Training Groups for children with ASDs

First and Third Sundays of every Month: Aspinauts Children's Choir and 1:1 Music Mentoring

Fourth Thursday of the Month: Autie Friendly Dinner Club

Fourth Sunday of the Month: SunTen Tennis Coaching Program

July 2010

7th July: ACE Big Day Out

10th July: Trivia Fundraising Night

14th July - 16th July: Become an ABA Therapist

20th July: Walking in Autistic Shoes

22nd July: Michelle Garcia Winner - Social Thinking Workshop

27th July: Early Days Workshop: Siblings - What Can You Do to Help?

27th July: Information Session: Anxiety and ASDs

28th July: Serenity Now: Helping You and Your Child with ASD to Cope with Anxiety

31st July: Early Days Workshop: Siblings - What Can You Do to Help?

August 2010

3rd August - 17th August: Become an ABA Therapist

5th August - 6th August: Victorian Autism Conference

5th August - 4th Sep: Making Meaning: An exhibition of figurative, abstract and photographic artworks

6th August: Walking in Autistic Shoes

6th - 8th August: Weekend Family Retreat

8th August: Early Days Workshop: Siblings - What Can You Do to Help?

10th August: Nurturing Friendship and Connection with Darcy Elks

11th August: Developing the Leadership of Individuals and Families with Darcy Elks

12th August: Getting Ready for School in 2011 - "Talking Points"

13th - 27th August: Making it Work: A program for teachers and integration aides working with children with Autism Spectrum Disorders

14th August: ABA Information Session

17th August: Early Days Workshop: Siblings - What Can You Do to Help?

17th August: How to Successfully use Visuals in the Home of School: Talking Points

18th August: Behaviour Management: Practical Strategies for Children with ASD

19th August: Carol Gray Seminar: Solving the Social Equation in ASD

24th August: Early Days Workshop: Siblings - What Can You Do to Help?

25th August: Carol Gray Seminar: Friendship, Bullying and People with ASD

26th August: Developing and Improving Handwriting: "Talking Points"

27th August: Donna Williams Presents Jam Jar Documentary

September 2010

4th September: Footsteps of a Nobody

4th September: Manage your Child's Sensory Processing Difficulties at Home and in the Community: "Talking Points"

6th - 8th September: Become an ABA Therapist

11th September: ABA Information Session

24th September: Walking in Autistic Shoes

    

Name of Event: Social Skills Training Groups for Children with ASD
Organising Agency: RMIT University Psychology Clinic
Day and Date:

Run over eight weeks during school terms

Term 3 Groups: Saturday 17th July - Saturday 4th September

Venue:

RMIT Psychology Clinic

Plenty Road, Bundoora

Time: 10am - 12 noon
Event Details:

This social skills program is an eight-week group training program for children aged nine to twelve with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs). The program has been developed to teach and practice those skills in which children with ASDs need extra assistance. Early sessions focus on non-verbal communication, such as eye contact, body language, tone of voice and facial expression. Children learn to pay attention to these skills to solve every day social problem-solving tasks through group discussion, teamwork, and role play. For more information, click here.

Contact Details:

RMIT Psychology Clinic 9925 7603

clinic@rmit.edu.au

Registration: Contact the clinic for more information, and to put your name down for this or future groups
Cost: $200 for eight sessions

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Name of Event: Autie Friendly Dinner Club
Organising Agency: auties.org
Day and Date:

Fourth Thursday of every month

Venue:

Honey Thai Restaurant

1678 Main Road, Belgrave

(just outside of Belgrave train station)

Time: 7pm - 9pm
Event Details:

This is an adults group and has been running since 2007. Adults can attend with a parent or trusted friend if they wish. It was started through www.auties.org where you can also get ideas on starting similar clubs in your area.

Registration: There is no need to register, just show up on the night.
Cost: Meals start from $17.
Other Information: The restaurant caters for special dietary requirements.

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Name of Event: Serenity Now: Helping You and Your Child with ASD Cope with Anxiety
Organising Agency: ABIA
Day and Date: Held over six Wednesdays from 28th July to 1st September
Venue:

ABIA, Suite 2

437 Canterbury Road, Surrey Hills

Time:

10am - 12 noon (Parent Sessions)

4.30pm - 6.30pm (Parent & Child Sessions)

Event Details:

ABIA offer a six-week program that aims to assist parents of children with an ASD, aged 5-9 years, to manage with their child’s anxiety. The program includes four parent education sessions teaching skills and techniques to help their children cope with and alleviate anxiety.  The program also includes two hands-on sessions with parent and child to practice the calming activities learned in the parent sessions. 

This program is approved for Helping Children with Autism/FaHCSIA funding.

Contact Details:

Anita O'Flynn 9830 0677

info@abia.net.au

Registration: As above
Cost:

$450 (ABIA Member)

$500 (Non-Member)

$500 (Helping Children with Autism/FaHCSIA funding)

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Name of Event: Aspinauts Children's Choir and 1:1 Music Mentoring
Organising Agency: Aspinauts For Kids
Day and Date: First and third Sundays of every month
Venue:

Upwey. Contact Donna for details.

Time:

Choir: 11am - 12 noon

1:1 Music Mentoring Slots: 10am - 11am; 12 noon -1pm; 2.30pm - 3.30pm.

Event Details:

ASPINAUTS CHILDREN'S CHOIR

Aspinauts For Kids, headed by Donna Williams with Anthony Julian on keyboards.  Both are musicians/singers on the spectrum and with the band Donna and The Aspinauts.  Donna is a qualified teacher and autism consultant who has produced three albums and written and performed musicals.   Anthony Julian has performed in musical theatre, has an extensive musical background is is presently completing a diploma in music.  Both hold Working With Children cards.  

Numbers are limited to only 6 children per group.  Age range is 5 - 13 years.  Some level of singing ability is expected and children will also be encouraged to develop gestures and use percussion. The group is informal and children are welcome to move about as they sing.

MUSIC MENTORING

In addition to the choir, there is now also music mentoring. Music mentoring has two mentors to each participant. It costs $15 for 15 minutes or $20 for 30 minutes and you can book on a casual basis (on a lesson by lesson basis) but do let us know if you are going to cancel. Music mentoring can cover voice, keyboards, percussion. Each session is individually tailored to each child and can incorporate their own favourite songs.

Contact Details: Donna Williams bookings@donnawilliams.net
Registration:

For more information on Aspinauts for Kids, visit http://www.myspace.com/baloombawop

Cost:

Choir: $5 per child

1:1 Music Mentoring: $15 per 15 minute slot; $20 per 30 minutes.

Back to Events   

Name of Event: SunTen Tennis Coaching Program
Organising Agency: VICSRAPID
Day and Date: 4th Sunday of every month
Time: 12 noon - 2pm
Venue:

Kooyong Lawn Tennis Club

489 Glenferrie Road, Kooyong

Event Details:

Enjoy professional tennis coaching for players aged 11 an upwards who have a disability (beginners, siblings and friends all welcome).

Contact Details:

VICSRAPID 9926 1380

vicsrap@tpg.com.au

Registration: Bookings essential. Players should book before each session with VICSRAPID
Cost: $5 per player per session

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Name of Event: Creative Moves: Performing Arts Group for Young Teens with an ASD
Organising Agency: Power Neighbourhood House
Day and Date: Monday 17th May - August
Venue:

Power Neighbourhood House

54 Power Avenue, Ashwood

Event Details:

Creative Moves is a new program suitable for young teenagers on the Autism Spectrum.  The aim of this program is to provide an avenue for youth to be part of a performing arts program in a safe and vibrant environment. These youth will be supported to express themselves through dance, movement and art therapy workshops which will all culminate in a number of community performances. The group meets every second Monday night in Ashwood. For more information, click here.

Contact Details: Carol Berger 9807 3589 or powerhse@vicnet.net.au
Registration: As above
Cost: Free

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Name of Event: ABA Information Session
Organising Agency: ABIA
Day and Date:

Saturday 14th August

Saturday 11th September

Saturday 16th October

Saturday 13th November

Saturday 4th December

Venue:

ABIA, Suite 2

437 Canterbury Road, Surrey Hills

Time: 10am - 12 noon
Event Details:

ABIA is pleased to offer an information session to families new to ABA.  This session covers the following:  what is ABA, how to set up an ABA program, where to start, recruiting therapists, sourcing funding. This session is facilitated by an experienced professional in the Autism field. For more information and to register, click here.

Contact Details:

Anita O'Flynn 9830 0677

info@abia.net.au

Registration:

Click here for a registration form

Cost:

$15 per person

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Name of Event: Donna's Journey
Organising Agency: View Club of Eltham
Day and Date: Tuesday 22nd June
Venue:

Greensborough RSL

111 Main Street, Greensborough

Time: 7pm
Event Details:

A presentation and question-answer forum with renowned author, artist and public speaker Donna Williams.

WHAT PEOPLE SAY:
“The feeling you get after the event is amazing. My manager found it the best lecture she had attended in her whole career!”
“Donna not only changed the way I see people with autism; she changed the way I see everyone”.
“Donna shares her knowledge with her audience in a way which makes it one to one, when in a room of hundreds. I would recommend her as a 'never to be missed' speaker”.

Contact Details:

Contact Jo 9439 7947 or Anne 0412 279 156

Registration:

As above. Bookings are essential.

Cost:

$20 dinner plus Gold Coin donation for the speaker

Other Information:

The View Club supports The Smith Family, a charity dedicated to supporting families in financial crisis.

Back to Events      

Name of Event: Sleep Development and Sleep Difficulties in Children with ASDs - Parent Session
Organising Agency: Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre and ACER
Day and Date: Thursday 24 June
Venue:

Cinema, University of Melbourne, Hawthorn Campus

442 Auburn Road, Hawthorn

Time: 9.45am - 1.00pm (9.30am registration)
Event Details:

In this half day seminar, sleep disorder in autism expert, Dr Amanda Richdale, will discuss sleep difficulties common to children with an ASD.

Parents of children with an ASD commonly report that their child has sleep difficulties. Sleep problems need to be understood within the framework of typical sleep development. This seminar will consider typical sleep development in children and adolescents including sleep structure, developmental changes in sleep across childhood and adolescence, and common sleep problems and their potential to impact on the child and his family. Sleep development, and sleep problems and their impact in children with an autism spectrum disorder will be discussed within this framework. How to promote good sleep habits and patterns, and approaches to interventions including seeking professional advice will be covered. For more information, click here.

Contact Details: Melissa Sieradzki sieradzki@acer.edu.au
Registration: Click here to register.
Cost: $50
Other Information:

This seminar will be of interest to parents and carers of children with an autism spectrum disorder aged 2 to 18 years.

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Name of Event: Sleep Development and Sleep Difficulties in Children with ASDs - Professionals Session
Organising Agency: Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre and ACER
Day and Date: Thursday 24 June
Venue:

Cinema, University of Melbourne, Hawthorn Campus

442 Auburn Road, Hawthorn

Time: 2.00pm - 4.30pm (registration 1.45pm)
Event Details:

In this half day seminar, sleep disorder in autism expert, Dr Amanda Richdale, will discuss sleep difficulties common to children with an ASD.

Sleep difficulties commonly occur in children with an ASD and can affect their learning and daytime functioning. In this half-day seminar, Dr Richdale will discuss these problems within the framework of typical sleep development.

Sleeping problems in children with ASDs need to be understood within the framework of typical sleep development. This seminar will consider typical sleep development in children and adolescents including sleep structure, developmental changes in sleep across childhood and adolescence, and common sleep problems and their potential to impact on the children’s daytime learning and behaviour. Sleep development, and sleep problems and their impact in children with an ASD will be discussed within this framework. Assisting parents to promote good sleep habits and patterns, and approaches to interventions that parents can implement with professional support will be covered.

Contact Details: Melissa Sieradzki sieradzki@acer.edu.au
Registration: Click here to register.
Cost: $120
Other Information:

This seminar will be of interest to health professionals, teachers and professionals who work with children and adolescents with an autism spectrum disorder and their families

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Name of Event: ACE Big Day Out
Organising Agency: Southern Metropolitan Learning Community
Day and Date: Wednesday 7th July
Venue:

Hemisphere Conference Centre

488 South Road, Moorabbin 3189

Time: 11.45am - 1pm
Event Details:

Donna Williams will present: Clashing Normalities; An exploration of disability, diversity and inclusion as part of ACE Big Day Out hosted by Southern Metropolitan Learning Community

Contact Details:

Pam Gates 9558 1866

dvnc@satlink.com.au

Registration: As above
Cost: FREE

Back to Events    

Name of Event: Trivia Fundraising Night
Organising Agency: Special Olympics Victoria
Day and Date: Saturday 10th July
Venue:

Keilor RSL

12-22 Hoffmans Road, Essendon

Time: 7pm - 11.30pm
Event Details:

Special Olympics Victoria – Melbourne West Region - invites you to attend our Trivia night. This fundraising night will be fun for all your family and friends. On the evening we will test your knowledge and ensure great laughs with our trivia competition and silent auction with plenty of exciting items to choose from. We will also have raffles and fun games for all.  

Don’t miss out on this wonderful fundraising night. You will not only help raise money to support our athletes, but you could go home with an auction item or wonderful raffle prize. This is also a great function for an opportunity to meet other families within Melbourne West.

Click here for more information.

Contact Details:

Cheryl Whiteley 9389 2892 by 30th May

cheryl.whiteley@csl.com.au

Registration:

For payment options, click here.

Cost:

$10 (to be paid before 15th June)

Other Information:

Neat casual dress - closed shoes, no t-shirts, no hats

Meals available from 7 - 7.30pm fromt he bistro at your expense, and beverages at the RSL's great prices

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Name of Event: Walking in Autistic Shoes
Organising Agency: Donna Williams
Day and Date: Tuesday 20th July
Venue:

School Hall, Ormond Primary School

Wheatley Road, Ormond

Time: 7.30pm - 9.00pm
Event Details:

Born in 1963, thought deaf and assessed as psychotic at the age of two, Donna Williams acquired functional speech in late childhood and was diagnosed with autism in her 20’s.  Her first book “Nobody Nowhere” was the first of two international best sellers (now set to become a film). She became the author of ten books, an artist and musician, an international public speaker, qualified teacher and professional autism consultant since 1996. Drawing on her own life and the experience of having worked with hundreds of children and adults on the autism spectrum, Donna will provide a fascinating insight into the world of Autism as someone who has actually been there.

WHAT PEOPLE SAY:
“The "feel good" feeling you get after the event is amazing. My manager found it the best lecture she had attended in her whole career!”
“Never have I sat through a seminar that held me captivated the entire time. Donna is an expert on the subject and if you think you know a lot about Autism then think again”.
“Donna Williams' talks are spell-blindingly powerful. I regard her as the preeminent speaker on autism, from a powerful inside-out perspective”.
“Donna shares her knowledge with her audience in a way which makes it one to one, when in a room of hundreds. I would recommend her as a 'never to be missed' speaker”.

Contact Details:

Contact 9578 1327

Registration:

As above.

Cost:

$5

Back to Events      

Name of Event: Michelle Garcia Winner - Social Thinking Workshop
Organising Agency: Social Inclusion Australia
Day and Date: Thursday 22nd July
Venue:

Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre

1 Convention Centre Place, South Wharf

Time: 9.30am - 3.30pm (registration opens 8.30am)
Event Details:

A one day workshop on Social Thinking concepts and cognitive based treatment strategies for anyone interested in the high functioning end of the Autism Spectrum, Asperger’s Syndrome, ADHD or any other from of social cognitive deficit.

AT THE WORKSHOP: Participants will learn Michelle's ILAUGH model to explain social cognition and will gain an understanding of Michelle's perspective taking scale that facilitates a realistic assessment of the needs and potential capabilities of people with a social cognitive deficit. Participants will learn cognitive based functional treatment strategies they can use either at school, at home, in clicinal practice or in other settings.

Contact Details:

Social Inclusion Australia 0420 531 645

socialinclusionaustralia@gmail.com

Registration:

As above

Cost: $140

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Name of Event: Information Session: Anxiety and ASDs
Organising Agency: Autism Victoria
Day and Date: Tuesday 27th July
Venue:

Autism Victoria

24 Drummond Street, Carlton

Time: 10am - 12 noon
Event Details:

Autism Victoria invites you to an information session on Autism Spectrum Disorders and Anxiety management.

Contact Details:

Sofia Neves 03 9657 1616

counsellor2@autismvictoria.org.au

Registration:

As above

Cost: Free for Autism Victoria members

Back to Events     

Name of Event: Serenity Now: Helping You and Your Child with ASD Cope with Anxiety
Organising Agency: ABIA
Day and Date: Held over six Wednesdays from 28th July to 1st September
Venue:

ABIA, Suite 2

437 Canterbury Road, Surrey Hills

Time:

10am - 12 noon (Parent Sessions)

4.30pm - 6.30pm (Parent & Child Sessions)

Event Details:

ABIA offer a six-week program that aims to assist parents of children with an ASD, aged 5-9 years, to manage with their child’s anxiety. The program includes four parent education sessions teaching skills and techniques to help their children cope with and alleviate anxiety.  The program also includes two hands-on sessions with parent and child to practice the calming activities learned in the parent sessions. 

This program is approved for Helping Children with Autism/FaHCSIA funding.

Contact Details:

Anita O'Flynn 9830 0677

info@abia.net.au

Registration: As above
Cost:

$450 (ABIA Member)

$500 (Non-Member)

$500 (Helping Children with Autism/FaHCSIA funding)

Back to Events    

Name of Event: Victorian Autism Conference
Organising Agency: Autism Victoria
Day and Date: Thursday 5th August and Friday 6th August
Venue:

Rydges Bell City Conference Centre, Preston, Melbourne

and nine regional locations:

- Geelong

- Warrnambool

- Ballarat

- Horsham

- Bendigo

- Mildura

- Shepparton

- Albury/Wodonga

- Traralgon

Time:

8am Registration for a 9am start both days.

Day One closes with drinks commencing at 5pm.

Day Two closes with afternoon tea at 3pm.

Event Details:

Autism Victoria is pleased to provide information on the Victorian Autism Conference (VAC) Promoting Positive Practice Across The Spectrum, to be held at Rydges Bell City Hotel in Preston, on Thursday the 5th and Friday the 6th of August 2010.

The Victorian Autism Conference will attract 2000 participants; 500 in metropolitan Melbourne and 1500 across regional Victoria. In a first of its kind, this two day event will be streamed live across the state to a number of ‘satellite’ centres to facilitate the participation of these regional delegates. Targeted at families, individuals and professionals with an interest in Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), the conference aims to provide practical strategies and information to enhance the quality of life of families and individuals affected by ASD.

Click here for the Conference Website

Contact Details:

For registration enquires, please contact:

The Conference Manager

03 9363 6111
info@theconferencemanager.com.au

Registration: Click here to register
Cost:

Standard Rates (paid after 30th June, 2010)

Melbourne Conference

$330 - Autism Victoria Members

$380 - Non-Members

$190 - Day rate (no Early Bird discounts apply)

Regional Centres

$230 - Autism Victoria Members

$280 - Non-Members

$135 - Day rate

Back to Events     

Name of Event: Making Meaning: An exhibition of figurative, abstract and photographic art works
Organising Agency: 1812 Theatre
Day and Date: Thursday 5th August - Saturday 4th September
Venue:

The Bakery @ 1812 Theatre

3 Rose Street

Upper Ferntree Gully

Time:

Wednesday - Sunday 8.30pm - 11pm

Sundays: 4pm - 6.30pm

Event Details:

One of the most well known people with autism in the world, Donna Williams is best known as an internationally best-selling author. With 10 published books, she is also an artist, sculptor, singer-songwriter, screenwriter and public speaker. She has exhibited in New York, her work has featured in art books, magazines and newsletters around the world and sold internationally.  She shares this exhibition with her Aspie husband Chris Samuel who will have his photography on show.

Contact Details:

admin@1812 theatre.com or 9758 3964

Registration: Not required
Cost:

Free

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Name of Event: Walking in Autistic Shoes
Organising Agency: Carlton Neighbourhood Learning Centre
Day and Date: Friday 6th August
Venue:

Portable classroom, rear of Carlton Neighbourhood Learning Centre

20 Princes Street, Carlton North (cnr Station Street)

Time: 7pm - 8.30pm
Event Details:

Born in 1963, thought deaf and assessed as psychotic at the age of two, Donna Williams acquired functional speech in late childhood and was diagnosed with autism in her 20’s.  Her first book “Nobody Nowhere” was the first of two international best sellers (now set to become a film). She became the author of ten books, an artist and musician, an international public speaker, qualified teacher and professional autism consultant since 1996. Drawing on her own life and the experience of having worked with hundreds of children and adults on the autism spectrum, Donna will provide a fascinating insight into the world of Autism as someone who has actually been there.

WHAT PEOPLE SAY:
“The "feel good" feeling you get after the event is amazing. My manager found it the best lecture she had attended in her whole career!”
“Never have I sat through a seminar that held me captivated the entire time. Donna is an expert on the subject and if you think you know a lot about Autism then think again”.
“Donna Williams' talks are spell-blindingly powerful. I regard her as the preeminent speaker on autism, from a powerful inside-out perspective”.
“Donna shares her knowledge with her audience in a way which makes it one to one, when in a room of hundreds. I would recommend her as a 'never to be missed' speaker”.

Contact Details:

bookings@donnawilliams.net

Registration:

As above.

Cost:

$5

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Name of Event: Weekend Family Retreat: Community Vision Building with Darcy Elks
Organising Agency: Melba Support Services - PLA
Day and Date: Friday 6th August - Sunday 8th August
Venue: Phillip Island Eco Resort
Time: Friday 5.30pm - Sunday 4.30pm
Event Details:

FOR FAMILIES WHO LIVE IN THE EASTERN SUBURBS OF MELBOURNE

This is a rare and exciting opportunity for families who are interested in assisting their family member with a disability to plan for and pursue unique lifestyle options that include natural pathways, valued roles and contribution to the community. At this retreat you will meet and hear from other families about the practical ways they have created a vision for a meaningful life and how they made it a reality. You will also have the opportunity to create new friendships for mutual support. This weekend has been developed in response to families who have not found congregate, group, segregated or “specialised” services suitable to

the needs and aspirations of their family member with a disability..

Darcy Elks from Pennsylvania is a world leader in family based initiatives to improve the lives of people with disabilities. She has been a human service provider, trainer, consultant, evaluator and advocate on behalf of people with a disability for over 25 years.  She has travelled extensively and worked with many different people including people who themselves have been marginalised, families, staff and organisations. The focus of her work is to encourage attitudes and structures which promote social value and inclusion for people with disabilities and others who have been devalued and excluded.  Darcy’s passion is the desire to help create inclusive communities where all people are welcome and where we can each use our gifts for the good of one another.  Darcy has three children, one of whom has a disability. For more information, click here.
Contact Details:

Laura Sykes 9739 8333

laura.sykes@plavic.net.au

Registration: Click here to download a registration form.
Cost: $140

Back to Events    

Name of Event: Nurturing Friendship and Connection with Darcy Elks
Organising Agency: Melba Support Services - PLA
Day and Date: Tuesday 10th August
Venue: Ringwood - Maroondah Federation Estate
Time: 9.30am - 4.30pm
Event Details:

Relationships are one of the most crucial factors in a human being’s life. Research has shown that relationships significantly contribute to a person’s wellbeing. For people who have a disability and other people who have been marginalised and devalued by society, developing relationships is a critical issue. Although recognising the need for mutually reciprocal relationships we often struggle with how we might assist people with a disability and other marginalised people to nature and sustain relationships particularly with other community members.

This workshop will assist participants to:

  • Think about how relationships start, develop and grow
  • The challenges that present themselves when facilitating contacts and relationships between people who are excluded and those who are part of mainstream society
  • How to use natural pathways that exist in our society for developing relationships for all people

This workshop will be of interested to people with a disability, mental illness or other vulnerabilities, families, advocates and professionals.

Darcy Elks from Pennsylvania is a world leader in family based initiatives to improve the lives of people with disabilities. She has been a human service provider, trainer, consultant, evaluator and advocate on behalf of people with a disability for over 25 years.  She has travelled extensively and worked with many different people including people who themselves have been marginalised, families, staff and organisations. The focus of her work is to encourage attitudes and structures which promote social value and inclusion for people with disabilities and others who have been devalued and excluded.  Darcy’s passion is the desire to help create inclusive communities where all people are welcome and where we can each use our gifts for the good of one another.  Darcy has three children, one of whom has a disability. For more information, click here.
Contact Details:

Laura Sykes 9739 8333

laura.sykes@plavic.net.au

Registration: Click here to download a registration form
Cost: $200. Concessions available.

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Name of Event: Developing the Leadership of Individuals and Families with Darcy Elks
Organising Agency: Melba Support Services - PLA
Day and Date: Wednesday 11th August
Venue: Ringwood - Maroondah Federation Estate
Time: 9.30am - 3.00pm
Event Details:

Over the years Personalised Lifestyle Assistance (PLA) has worked alongside many individuals with disabilities and families who have created individualised lifestyle arrangements that are typical of other citizens and authentically socially inclusive. Through the telling of their story, many individuals and families have gone on to inspire and mentor many other people.

This is a unique opportunity designed to work intensely with a small group of people with a disability and families in the Eastern Region of Melbourne who express an active interest in taking up leadership roles that aim to inspire and mentor other people and families to create good lifestyles that are authentically socially inclusive, individualised and personally meaningful. This workshop also offers a chance for families and individuals to renew and sustain their advocacy efforts for inclusion over time.

Darcy Elks from Pennsylvania is a world leader in family based initiatives to improve the lives of people with disabilities. She has been a human service provider, trainer, consultant, evaluator and advocate on behalf of people with a disability for over 25 years.  She has travelled extensively and worked with many different people including people who themselves have been marginalised, families, staff and organisations. The focus of her work is to encourage attitudes and structures which promote social value and inclusion for people with disabilities and others who have been devalued and excluded.  Darcy’s passion is the desire to help create inclusive communities where all people are welcome and where we can each use our gifts for the good of one another.  Darcy has three children, one of whom has a disability. For more information, click here.
Contact Details:

Laura Sykes 9739 8333

laura.sykes@plavic.net.au

Registration: Click here to download a registration form.
Cost: $140

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Name of Event: Making it Work: A program for teachers and integration aides working with children with ASDs
Organising Agency: ABIA
Day and Date: Held over three Fridays: 13th, 20th, and 27th August
Venue:

ABIA

Suite 2, 437 Canterbury Road

Surrey Hills

Time: 9.30am - 4.30pm
Event Details:

ABIA is pleased to offer a 3-day training program which has been specifically designed to equip teachers and integration aides to meet the challenges of teaching children with ASD.  This program includes a range of practical strategies for help these children adapt to classroom and playground environments and is highly recommended for anyone wishing to develop their teaching and inclusion skills. For more information, click here.

Contact Details:

Anita O'Flynn 9830 0677

info@abia.net.au

Registration:

Click here for a registration form

Cost:

$630 (ABIA member)

$680 (Non-member)

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Name of Event: Getting Ready for School in 2011: Talking Points
Organising Agency: Autism Action
Day and Date: Thursday 12th August
Venue:

Learning Centre

44 Birdwood Street

Box Hill South 3128

Time: 7pm - 9pm
Event Details:

This free night will offer a chance for all to discuss the transition from Kinder to Primary School in 2011.

It will be an Open Forum focusing on:

  • What questions do I need to ask?
  • Applying for funding: What you need to know (even if you have already applied)
  • How is the funding used?
  • Support Options
Autism Action prefers to run small group workshops (max of 20 people) to ensure all participants will be able to receive individual feedback for their own circumstance.
Contact Details:

Anne Robins

info@autismaction.com.au

Registration:

Click here to register. Bookings are essential for this free workshop.

Cost:

FREE

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Name of Event: How to successfully use visuals in the home or school: "Talking Points"
Organising Agency: Autism Action
Day and Date: Tuesday 17th August
Venue:

Learning Centre

44 Birdwood Street

Box Hill South 3128

Time: 10am - 2pm
Event Details:

Great workshop to help parents clarify the difference between using visuals to encourage communication and reduce ‘meltdowns.’

  • What is the difference between receptive and expressive
  • Using visuals to reduce your child’s ‘meltdowns’
  • Demonstration on how to use visuals to teach your child to :
      • - Play

    - Wait

    - Social Skills

    - Life Skills eg toilet training, dressing etc

    - Communication

  • How to set up, then use the visuals in kinder/home/class

Autism Action prefers to run small group workshops (max of 20 people) to ensure all participants will be able to receive individual feedback for their own circumstance.

Contact Details:

Anne Robins

info@autismaction.com.au

Registration:

Click here to register.

Cost:

$75

Other information: This fee is claimable through your FaHCSIA funding

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Name of Event: Behaviour Management: Practical Strategies
Organising Agency: Autism Partnership
Day and Date: Wednesday 18th August
Venue:

Autism Partnership

53 Fletcher Street, Essendon

Time: 10am - 12.30pm
Event Details:

Click here for event details.

Contact Details:

Amy Evans (03) 9375 2469 amy.evans@autismpartnership.com.au

Registration:

Complete registration form

Cost:

$120 per person

This fee can be claimed through the FaHCSIA funding.

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Name of Event: Carol Gray Seminar: Solving the Social Equation in ASD
Organising Agency: Autism Noticeboard
Day and Date: Thursday 19th August
Venue:

Hemisphere Conference Centre

488 South Road Moorabbin

Time: 9am - 4pm
Event Details:

Following her successful Australian tour in 2009, Carol Gray (creator of Social Stories) is returning in August to present "Solving the Social Equation in ASD", one of two sessions she is bringing to Melbourne. She will also be presenting sessions in Perth and Canberra.

Carol's workshops are fun and fast paced, full of many examples and positive practical ideas. Her latest Social Stories book has just been published and this edition includes a CD with PDF and Word files of each Social Story. No more photocopying! And you can customize each story with your own details and photos. Copies of this book and all Carol's other books will be available to purchase at each session from Resources at Hand booksellers. For more information, click here.

Contact Details:

Contact Autism Noticeboard 0450 008 501 or email office@autismnoticeboard.com.au

Registration:

For more details and a registration form go to the Events page on the Autism Noticeboard.

Cost:

Early Bird $179 (paid before 2nd July)

Regular $199 (paid after 2nd July)

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Name of Event: Carol Gray Seminar: Friendship, Bullying and People with ASD
Organising Agency: Autism Noticeboard
Day and Date: Wednesday 25th August
Venue:

Hemisphere Conference Centre

488 South Road Moorabbin

Time: 9am - 4pm
Event Details:

Following her successful Australian tour in 2009, Carol Gray (creator of Social Stories) is returning in August to present "Friendship, Bullying and People with ASD", one of two sessions she is bringing to Melbourne. She will also be presenting sessions in Perth and Canberra.

Carol's workshops are fun and fast paced, full of many examples and positive practical ideas. Her latest Social Stories book has just been published and this edition includes a CD with PDF and Word files of each Social Story. No more photocopying! And you can customize each story with your own details and photos. Copies of this book and all Carol's other books will be available to purchase at each session from Resources at Hand booksellers. For more information, click here.

Contact Details:

Contact Autism Noticeboard 0450 008 501 or email office@autismnoticeboard.com.au

Registration:

For more details and a registration form go to the Events page on the Autism Noticeboard.

Cost:

Early Bird $179 (paid before 2nd July)

Regular $199 (paid after 2nd July)

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Name of Event: Developing and improving handwriting: "Talking Points"
Organising Agency: Autism Action
Day and Date: Thursday 26th August
Venue:

Learning Centre

44 Birdwood Street

Box Hill South 3128

Time: 7pm - 9pm
Event Details:

This workshop is aimed at giving both parents and educational professionals a greater understanding of the complex skill of handwriting and how to improve the handwriting of a child with an ASD.

This workshop will answer the following questions:

  • What are pre-writing skills and how can I encourage the development of these skills?
  • Why is handwriting such a complex skill?
  • What are some practical tools to help a child who has issues with:

- writing motivation

- pencil grasp and pressure

- paper positioning

- writing posture

- letter and number formations

- legibility and content

  • Should this child be typing instead of writing?
  • Does this child need Occupational Therapy?

Autism Action prefers to run small group workshops (max of 20 people) to ensure all participants will eb able to receive individual feedback for their own circumstance.

Contact Details:

Anne Robins

info@autismaction.com.au

Registration:

Click here to register.

Cost:

$75

Other information: This fee is claimable through your FaHCSIA funding

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Name of Event: Donna Williams presents Autism Documentary "Jam Jar" including Q&A Session
Organising Agency: SpringDale Neighbourhood Centre
Day and Date: Friday 27th August 2010
Venue:

SpringDale Neighbourhood Centre

17-21 High Street, Drysdale

Time: 7.30pm - 9pm
Event Details: Jam Jar; the classic 1995 autism UK TV documentary features bestselling autistic author, Donna Williams. It follows Donna in her daily life with her first husband, a man on the autistic spectrum. Donna becomes our tour guide showing us the person beyond the labels on the ‘jam jar’. Poetic and artistic, the film explores Donna’s meaning deafness and meaning blindness in the context of autism and the social, emotional and communication bridges she uses to navigate with the world showing us the person beyond the labels on the ‘jam jar’.

Jam Jar went on to be nominated for the UK's Mental Health Media Award, and was captured in the book, Everyday Heaven.

Reviews:
“A wonderful insight that helps us to begin to try to understand the sensory world that engulfs so many. Laughter, tears and stories were shared by all”. - Angie Kristens - Kalparrin Early Childhood Intervention Centre
Contact Details:

Anne Brackley coordinator@springdale.org.au

03 5253 1960

Registration: As above
Cost: Gold coin donation

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Name of Event: Rock Musical - Footsteps of a Nobody
Organising Agency: Donna Williams
Day and Date: Saturday 4th September
Venue:

Stag Theatre, Strathmore Community Hall

Loeman Street, Strathmore

Time:

Show 8pm - 9pm

Question Time: 9pm - 9.30pm.

Event Details:

A powerful one woman rock-musical both written and performed by Donna Williams, author of the international best seller, Nobody Nowhere; Autobiography of an Autistic Girl and musically supported by The Aspinauts. 

This is a unique opportunity to witness the author herself perform a story that has changed the lives of millions. Through vibrant song, characterisations, gestural signing and evocative spoken word, Donna takes us on a journey from a seemingly deaf, psychotic, 'feral' child to life on the streets and ultimately on to her fight for equality among others.  

Contact Details:

Enquiries: bookings@donnawilliams.net

Registration: To register, click here.
Cost: Full Price - $20; Concession - $15
Other Information: Disabled access available. Suitable for teens and older children. 30 min of question time available after the show

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Name of Event: Manage your child's Sensory Processing difficulties at home and in the community: "Talking Points"
Organising Agency: Autism Action
Day and Date: Saturday 4th September
Venue:

Learning Centre

44 Birdwood Street

Box Hill South 3128

Time: 10am - 12pm
Event Details:

Does your child:

  • Never seem able to sit still
  • Have difficulty concentrating on tasks or play activities
  • Have melt-downs that are difficult to recover from
  • Seem tired and disinterested in activities

This workshop will:

  • Help you understand sensory processing is and how it affects your unique child
  • Provide you with realistic practical strategies to manage your child’s sensory needs throughout the day
  • Improve behaviour, concentration and skills
Autism Action prefers to run small group workshops (max of 20 people) to ensure all participants will be able to receive individual feedback for their own circumstance.
Contact Details:

Anne Robins

info@autismaction.com.au

Registration:

Click here to register.

Cost:

$75

Other information: This fee is claimable through your FaHCSIA funding

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Name of Event: Walking in Autistic Shoes
Organising Agency: Donna Williams
Day and Date: Friday 24th September
Venue:

Living Learning Centre

6B Henry Street, Pakenham

Time: 7.30pm - 8.30pm
Event Details:

Born in 1963, thought deaf and assessed as psychotic at the age of two, Donna Williams acquired functional speech in late childhood and was diagnosed with autism in her 20’s.  Her first book “Nobody Nowhere” was the first of two international best sellers (now set to become a film). She became the author of ten books, an artist and musician, an international public speaker, qualified teacher and professional autism consultant since 1996. Drawing on her own life and the experience of having worked with hundreds of children and adults on the autism spectrum, Donna will provide a fascinating insight into the world of Autism as someone who has actually been there.

WHAT PEOPLE SAY:
“The "feel good" feeling you get after the event is amazing. My manager found it the best lecture she had attended in her whole career!”
“Never have I sat through a seminar that held me captivated the entire time. Donna is an expert on the subject and if you think you know a lot about Autism then think again”.
“Donna Williams' talks are spell-blindingly powerful. I regard her as the preeminent speaker on autism, from a powerful inside-out perspective”.
“Donna shares her knowledge with her audience in a way which makes it one to one, when in a room of hundreds. I would recommend her as a 'never to be missed' speaker”.

Contact Details:

bookings@donnawilliams.net

Registration:

As above.

Cost:

$5

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