Mariam Mohammed

The Community Affairs Legislation Committee has just published the joint submission I have co-authored with my friend and NDIA co-design colleague, Uli Cartwright, on the NDIS Bill. Our submission addresses: - The lack of co-design for major changes to the primary legislation according to Article 4(3) of the UNCRPD - Destruction of the golden thread between funding, goals and aspirations for a life worth living on an equal basis with others - Parallels with Robodebt culture in the participant experience and the further risks this Bill imposes - Legislating NDIA accountability to participants - Legislating NDIA, DSS and Government accountability in co-design - Our vision for the co-design commitment we need This submission was made independently of our roles as NDIA Participant Reference Group members. However, in light of the following statement published on the DSS website last night regarding NDIA co-design, we wish to set the record straight: “Since the Government introduced proposed changes to the NDIS Act, the NDIA has been working closely with Disability Representative and Carer Organisations (DRCOs), our Independent Advisory Council (IAC) and Participant Reference Group (PRG) to improve their approach and confirm the next set of priority topics for co-design.” We do not know who drafted this FAQ, but we do not believe “working closely” with the PRG is a fair or accurate representation of a one hour briefing the day after the Bill was tabled, a two hour Q&A for us to give our feedback on the proposed legislative changes, and a two hour meeting on the NDIA’s already-formed, already-drafted co-design approach and proposed topics. At this meeting, we asked the NDIA to ask us what we can contribute and how much work we can take on, not to assume we are not up to the task. We go much further in our submission: We ask the Government, DSS and the NDIA to “assume that we can” contribute much more, and to invite people with disability to lead these reforms, including drafting of amendments (or indeed, re-drafting) of this Bill.

25

9 Comments

For all the social entrepreneurs in the ACT...

5

2 Comments

#EssentialCriteria for #AboriginalAdvisoryGroups 1. Each member must be part of a location based Aboriginal Community that Must be represented by the Advisory Group (Must is determined based on impact of decision making by the Advisory Group). A Regional Representation seems to be the standard in WA. Representation is Essential for any Aboriginal Advisory Group. 2. Each member is recognised as having the #RightToSpeak for their respective Aboriginal Communities. Eg. A member is recognised as a Member of a location based Aboriginal Community such as the Kimberley or Midwest regions in terms of WA and can therefore represent that region. If you are lucky, you will seek to appoint or nominate Aboriginal People that have the #RightToSpeak at a #Professional level (that is lived experiences in a specific Mainstream area such as Health or Justice as opposed to being a member of a location based Aboriginal Community) in terms of the objectives of the Aboriginal Advisory Group. 3. Each member is financially supported to actively engage with the region or Aboriginal Community that they can speak for. 4. Each member is Obligated to actively engage with the region that they represent. Preference will be that the member lives in the region that they represent. Lived experiences in specific regional areas is important criteria relevant to Aboriginal Advisory Groups. Another lucky number for today - 4.

2

1 Comment

What's the secret formula to working out how much, and what kind of open space a community needs? Truth is there isn't one. But there are some key ingredients to consider. It was such a pleasure to get to discuss this as a panelist at this week's NSW DPHI Open space Community of Practice event, which focussed on open space provision. A few take aways: - Planning for open space is nuanced, and benchmarking demand depends on a range of factors from number of people; to proximity, quality and capacity of what's nearby; to the diversity of the people who will use it; to the size and shape of the site; the type of housing people will live in; and the $$$ available (to plan, deliver and manage). - Benchmarks are nuanced. From population based; to site based; to aiming to retain existing provisions and standards. - The way we recreate is changing, and the diversity of our communities is changing influencing what we need to provide. - We need to be strategic. From government identifying early where regional open spaces will go that align with the housing targets being set; to enabling local councils to prepare LGA wide strategic open space and recreation strategies (that can get them grant ready; support negotiations around proposals; make the life of DA officers easier; and provide direction for developers). - We must start with need - needs of diverse user groups, needs of places, needs of delivery agencies, needs of future managers There are few things we know: - We must re-evaluate how we value open space, or green infrastructure. It is our truly equitable space. It delivers more health, social, economic and environmental value to the individual, to communities, and to government agencies (particularly in reduced the burden on health service delivery) than any other asset. - While we can improve the capacity of what we have through improved facilities, multipurpose design, shade and seating etc; we are still going to need more open space to respond to growth. Open space cannot just be left over parcels of land; or a nice to have. It simply can't be left of the plan as our housing becomes more dense and tall. - It's the role of many agencies - from the private sector, to local governments to state governments - to deliver the improved and new open space we will need. Bring on more collaboration. Thanks to Fiona Morrison and Bec Watson for driving these conversations and bringing people together so we can share and build our knowledge. It was a pleasure to present with you Paul Melrose Crosbie Lorimer Rohan Buckley Dana Spence. Always up for a chat and to share insights for open space planning from the site, to place, to city and state scale.

121

6 Comments

There are many resources that can help you find grants. These include: - Australian Government's GrantConnect - State Government grant databases - Local Council and regional initiative websites - Funder websites, newsletters and social media - Subscription-based services (e.g. The Grants Hub, GEMS, The Funding Centre, GrantGuru). Want to get the best value for your needs? I'm happy to share what I've learned over the years and feedback we've heard from others. Whichever methods you use, you also need a strategy to be proactive and assess grants effectively. Getting a bunch of daily updates is pointless unless you have an actionable plan for filtering opportunities and prioritising resources. If you want to save time and search smarter, get in touch. #findgrants #governmentgrants #philanthropy #australiangrants #purposeplus by Tender Plus

7

2 Comments

🌟 Expressions of Interest: Community Development Workers/Job Mentors Are you passionate about fostering inclusive employment opportunities and empowering individuals with disabilities? We are seeking Community Development Workers and Job Mentors to guide individuals through the Customised Employment journey, creating unique job roles that highlight their strengths and meet business needs. Your Mission: As a Community Development Worker/Job Mentor, you will support individuals through the three stages of Customised Employment: Stage 1: Discovery Work with individuals to understand their work interests, potential contributions, and ideal working conditions. Outcome: Employers receive valuable insights on how an individual’s unique skills can align with and support business needs. Stage 2: Job Development – Collaborate with Employers Reach out to businesses, focusing on building relationships and understanding their operations and challenges. Identify how an individual’s abilities can address specific business needs. Educate employers on Customised Employment using relevant examples and negotiate roles that provide mutual benefits. Conduct an Employer Needs & Benefits Analysis (with permission) to identify how a job seeker’s strengths can align with business objectives. Stage 3: On-site Job Support Provide job analysis and observe training and supervision practices. Suggest adaptations to learning methods if needed and support the business in training the new employee. Goal: Ensure seamless integration into the workplace, gradually fading external support as confidence and independence grow. What We’re Looking For: Empathetic and honest communication, empathy, and relationship-building skills and values. Ability to research and adapt to different workplace environments. Experience in community initiatives (work or non work related), mentorship, or support for people with disabilities or from other marginalised backgrounds Collaborative mindset, creative problem-solving, openness to learning Join Us! Help shape inclusive employment pathways and foster meaningful connections within communities. (Note: Training in these frameworks and many more is provided as well as mentoring and all resources you need to create great outcomes alongside individuals and communities). Pay rate depends on a few factors, but generally between $35-50 per hour plus superannuation and other benefits. Submit your Expression of Interest showcasing your relevant skills and experiences at https://lnkd.in/gddzhq5Y Let's create a future where people with and without disabilities have meaningful relationships through valued roles in a variety of contexts (school, work, university, neighbourhoods, friend groups, and beyond). . . #TowardsBetterTownsville

5

Trail Blazers ✨is the first initiative of Ballarat's Community Leaders Lab. What's the Community Leaders Lab? Here's our Manifesto... We, the Community Leaders Lab, believe in the power of collaborative action to drive positive change in Ballarat. We are committed to nurturing a diverse network of passionate individuals, community organisations, and businesses dedicated to shaping a brighter future for our city. We champion innovative thinking, inclusivity, and lifelong learning as the cornerstones of effective community leadership. We aspire to cultivate an ecosystem of connected and empowered leaders who work together to address pressing local challenges and seize opportunities for social impact. In the spirit of creating meaningful change, we will start small, listen attentively, experiment fearlessly, and explore new horizons. Through our programs and partnerships, we will equip leaders with the skills, knowledge, and resources necessary to catalyse meaningful change in Ballarat and beyond. As a community-driven social enterprise, we pledge to remain accountable and transparent in achieving sustainable and equitable outcomes for all. Together, we will build a thriving Ballarat—a city where everyone has the chance to grow, contribute, and lead. Join us in our mission to unlock the full potential of community leadership and transform our region, one collaborative effort at a time. Want to get involved? If you're a woman, a leader and this 👆 speaks to you, join your fellow Trail Blazers from October 15. Register here - https://lnkd.in/gvBGfTwZ

12

2 Comments

🗣️ New Social Media Ban for Under-16s in Australia: How Do We Talk to Our Kids About It? The recent ban on social media for kids under 16 has a lot of parents wondering, “How do I explain this in a way that makes sense?” 🤔 In my latest blog, I dive into five practical ways to approach this conversation based on your child’s understanding—whether they’re curious, feeling left out, or just want to know why. From keeping it age-appropriate to brainstorming fun offline alternatives, this guide will help you make this topic easier for everyone at the table. 💬 Using The Table Talk Project’s tools, you can turn these discussions into meaningful family moments, building trust and understanding. Read the full blog and get the conversation started today! 📲 🔗 https://lnkd.in/gaXF_JVf #SocialMediaBan #TalkingWithKids #TheTableTalkProject #FamilyConversations #ParentingTips #DigitalSafety #SocialMedia

5

1 Comment

How I measure design success for my clients? (I serve a diverse clientele) Every client needs a different version of me. For an Aussie founder: - More free time for family and kids For a solopreneur consultant: - More focus on the business vs in the business For a B2B SaaS Copywriter: - Leveraging my 5+ years of design experience For an agency owner: - My creative direction for their full-time hires I give my best. They love it. For every client I make sure to: * Overdeliver * Create an easy process * Be clear on what they need Good design creates a smile in the mind. To me, every smile matters. Every design matters.

106

133 Comments

So great to have the support of SmartCompany who published an article on the Australian Women Speakers groups, and the new directory at www.womenspeakers.com.au yesterday. This initiative started on LinkedIn so it great to be able to share the article here. I have a simple premise: we need equality on the stage at business events to help women achieve gender parity in other aspects of business (and life). It’s just logical that stages should reflect society. Young women need to see other women achieving success and visibility as role models. We need to be easier to find, and the Australian Women Speakers directory solves that problem. I also believe that collectively, women speakers can support each other to gain more opportunities for the benefit of everyone. If each woman recommends other women to their own bookers and clients, then awareness will grow much faster. What works is collaboration over competition There are literally thousands of women who want to educate, share their expertise and help others. We need to give them the opportunity to do that, and as a result they will grow their profiles, grow their businesses, employ more people and share their voices. Huge thanks to Morganne Kopittke for writing the story, and to Sue Ellson, Carolyn Butler-Madden and Michelle Pascoe for their supportive comments (and for being generally awesome and great speakers!).

12

7 Comments

Want to make a complaint about the Hobson's Pledge ad in the NZ Herald with the Advertising Standards Authority? Here are the details: https://lnkd.in/gE2_gzYg First page you need to click "Yes, Proceed" four times before you get the "Next" button and can actually start your complaint. Advertiser is Hobson's Pledge, publication is NZ Hearld. You will need a copy of the page (attached). You will need to put in details of why this fails to meet the standards? Having gone through the standards here are a few of my suggestions of principles it goes against: - Rule 1(c) Decency and Offensiveness - Rule 1(f) Violence and anti-social behaviour - Rule 1(g) Fear and Distress - Against Principle 2: Truthful Presentation You will need to put your details in then you can submit the details. Also InternetNZ | Ipurangi Aotearoa and DNCL talk about disinformation and misinformation but seem to have no ethics when it comes to holding to account people on our domain names that spew hate about us? Why is this .nz domain still even running? How do we complain? Or is this just showing us how that Systemic racism report is coming along?

256

85 Comments

Changing the narrative on gender-based violence should not just be based on empowering our women and girl-child, it should also focus on our collective responsibility to nurture the boy child to become an ally towards a more inclusive future. For many years the #16DaysOfActivism campaign has centred around the horrifying stats and sad reality of GBVF, but 30 years later how far have we come in tangible progress? We must ask ourselves: How can we break this cycle? Join the movement for change that is ‘ What About The Boys?’ Since 2022 we have positively impacted over 60 000 young men! Markham 1873 and What About The Boys? aim to raise R1.5M to amplify the programme. Show your support by purchasing a tee or sweater - Markham will donate R50 per tee and R100 per sweater sold. Let’s make a difference together. Shop sweaters and t-shirts in-store or online. #DoBetter #WhatAboutTheBoys

12

Are we becoming a post-literate society?Technology has changed the way many of us consume information, from complex pieces of writing to short video clips. What does post literate even mean and what does this mean for education in Aotearoa -New Zealand?https://lnkd.in/gYFMNnFq

10

2 Comments

This World Social Enterprise Day (21 November) Social Traders is releasing the largest report on the social enterprise sector in Australia. RISE (Report on Identified Social Enterprises) includes data on almost 6,000 social enterprises, giving the latest picture on the composition and impact of Australia's social enterprise sector. The report builds on previous research and includes new information on the sector's revenue, employees and impact contributions. Social Traders has played a role in understanding Australia’s social enterprise landscape since 2010 - it's part of how we build a thriving social enterprise sector. We've made certification data publicly available for the past two years. As we combine datasets for the first time this year, our hope is that this report will empower policymakers, researchers, investors, philanthropists, intermediaries and the public to better understand and support the vital contributions of social enterprises. RISE was enabled by practitioner and academic collaborators across Australia, UK, Netherlands and Canada. I hope you can join us for the online launch of the report - details and link to register below!

14

So much insight into how discrimination and harassment happens at startup-related events has become apparent through this process, and StartupWA and Women in Technology WA Inc. (WiTWA) are ready to share what we've found. My (not-official, not-endorsed by either organisation) takeaway: There are those who see it and/or experience it. Then there are those who don't see it or experience it. Whether the latter group exists because: (a) their demographics lend them less towards being targeted (e.g. Caucasian like me), or (b) they are less likely to interpret something as being discriminatory or harassing, or (c) they are blind to it happening, blissfully or otherwise, or (d) they're perpetrators, well intended or not... ...I don't know. Could be a mix of all four. If you believe it's rare, or doesn't affect people in WA's startup ecosystem, I respectfully suggest you NEED to get along to this panel. It might be an eyeopener for you, and could help you make our ecosystem more inclusive. Can't wait to hear from four people who were part of the roundtable: Danielle Giles of Catalyst CoLab, Elizabeth Lang of Diversity Focus, Matt Willson, MAITD of The Up Next Company and Elisha Middleton of Green Shoots. Thanks to CERI - Centre for Entrepreneurial Research and Innovation for hosting us, and to all involved in the work to this point - you rock!

23

As a funder, we know that our role isn’t just to get money out the door.     It’s to make meaningful connections with our community.     Create space for important conversations.     Truly listen to the organisations and people working on the front lines.     Provide opportunities for feedback.    And build relationships across the philanthropic and funding sectors.    Why?     So, we can fund in a way that is impactful and relevant to the challenges faced by our communities, and that truly helps our not-for-profits to grow.     We call it being ‘less transactional, more transformational.’    By adopting this approach, we are tapping into so many opportunities to make lasting change for our communities.     By building trusting relationships, we are more thoroughly understanding the kaupapa of organisations and why their mahi is important.     By creating safe spaces for the raw and real conversations, we are deepening our knowledge of what the pain points are, so we can fund in a way that serves to alleviate them.     By providing feedback opportunities, we are making sure we are operating in a way that removes barriers and helps not-for-profits focus on doing the mahi.     This isn’t just about getting money out the door.     It’s about making a real difference.     It’s about playing our part.     And it’s about working together to deliver long-term change.     To find out more about our approach to funding and our learnings from 2023, click through below to read our 2023 Funding Wrap Up.    

28