Information on this page is an alpha listing of both Government and Private Agencies, which provide services and benefits for blind and vision impaired people in Queensland.
Against each Agency is a basic and brief description of the services they provide. This page has been compiled by the Queensland Blind Association Inc. to assist blind and vision impaired people either in a professional or personal capacity.
Click here for printable version of this directory (PDF).
Queensland Blind Association Inc. has attempted to ensure the information on this page is accurate. However, we do not warrant that the information is accurate or complete nor will we be liable for any loss suffered by any person because they rely in any way on it. We do not endorse and are not responsible for the views, products or services offered or provided on this page.
AccommodationProvides accommodation services including independent living units.
Address: 9 / 10 Cameron Street, Fairfield QLD 4103
Postal: PO Box 6152, Fairfield Gardens, Qld 4103
Telephone: (07) 3846 1258
Fax: (07) 3846 2085
Email: aidblind@bigpond.net.au
Website: www.aidfortheblind.org
This organisation provides hostel accommodation for Blind and Vision Impaired People.
Address: Wishart Village, 14 Glasford Street, Wishart QLD 4122
Telephone: (07) 3347 8888
Admissions Enquiries: (07) 3550 3747
Email: admin@wishart.qb.com.au or
agedcareservices@qb.com.au
Also provides respite accommodation for people who have a disability at "Our House" at Toogoolawah.
Address: 53 Prospect Road, Gaythorne QLD 4051
Telephone: (07) 3550 3737
Fax: (07) 3550 3730
Website: qbc.qb.com.au/
Email: sue@qb.com.au
The Department of Communitites works with community housing providers to ensure that housing assistance is provided to households in greatest need for the duration of that need.
Telephone: 1300 880 882
Website: www.communities.qld.gov.au
Email: housingprovidermanagement@communities.qld.gov.au
Barwon Heads Holiday Home Victoria
A small well equipped two bedroom house is available for clients of Vision Australia. The house sleeps up to seven people at Barwon Heads on the "Victoria's Bellarine Peninsula. Cost is $30 a day plus a cleaning fee of $75 per stay. Maximum booking time is one wee per group of family per year.
Telephone: 1300 84 74 66 Patti or Jessica
Website: www.communities.qld.gov.au
Email: patti.baldini@visionaustralia.org.au
or jessica.obrien@visionaustralia.org.au
Brisbane Short Term Accommodation
Aone Bedroom accessible apartment is available for use by people who are blind or have low vision, are a client of Vision Australia and need to stay in Brisbane for medical appointments or rehabilitation programs. Bookings can be made for one night or up to two weeks at a cost of $35 per night
Telephone: (07) 3727 2345 Angela Hodkinson
The Australian Blindness Forum (ABF) is a not-for-profit organisation. It is funded by the contributions of its members which include major blindness agencies in the States and Territories and the consumer group Blind Citizens Australia.
They aim to operate as the peak body representing the blindness sector for the benefit of people who are blind or vision impaired.
Through a memorandum of understanding, the ABF works closely with National Disability Services, the national industry association for disability services (www.nds.org.au)
Website: www.australianblindnessforum.org.au
Email: Margaret.verick@nds.org.au
Blind Citizens Australia provides the following services:
Address: Mrs Cheryl Pascual - Correspondence Secretary, 15 Trawalla Street, The Gap Qld 4061
Telephone: Cheryl Pascual (07) 3300 6508
Email: bca@gmail.com
QADA can help to create a level playing field by supporting older people, people with a disability and their carers to be heard
Address: 121 Copperfield Street, Geebung Qld 4034
Phone: (07) 3637 6000
Freecall: 1800 818 338
Fax: (07) 3637 6001
Email: info@qada.org.au
Website: www.qada.org.au
This organisation is a statewide systems advocacy organisation advocating for people with disabilities by parents against abuse and exclusion for justice and rights.
Their advocacy covers issues including family support and respite, education, quality lifestyles for adults and guardianship.
As well as personally supporting one another, these families take up issues collectively on behalf of sons, daughters and others, speaking out about injustices and promoting people with disabilities as respected, valued and participating members of society.
Address: 2/70 Flanders Street, Salisbury, Qld 4107
Postal: PO Box 466, Salisbury, Qld 4107
Phone: (07) 3875 2101
Freecall: 1800 805 184
Fax: (07) 3875 2152
Email: qppd@qppd.org
Website: www.qppd.org.au
Speaking Up For You Inc. is an independent individual social advocacy organisation for people with a disability over 16 years in the Brisbane Metro Area.
Address: The Precinct, Unit F2, 1st Floor, 12 Browning Street, West End Qld 4101
Telephone: (07) 3255 1244
Fax: (07) 3255 1266
Email: sufy@sufy.org.au
Website: www.sufy.org.au
Baby Bridges is a unique and innovative/respite/therapy/supported playgroup program that provides an oppprtunity for respite. It is for parents, carers and young children 0 -5 years with a disability. Programs are running at Alexandra Hills, Mt Gravatt, Strathpine, Nerang and Ipswich. Each session runs for 2 hrs once a fortnight for 6 weeks, 10.00am to 12.00pm.
Telephone: (07) 3245 6600 or 1800 843 008 Geraldine McKinnon
Website: www.babybridges.com.au/
To assist you to remain home as independently as possible Blue Care can provide Domestic Assistance where trained staff can assist you at your home with:
Before your service commences a care plan will be developed based on your needs and will outline the time and agreed tasks.
Telephone: (07) 3377 3377 for your nearest BlueCare centre
Website: http://www.bluecare.org.au/
Legacy cares for the dependants of those who served their country, namely, veterans who died on operational service or subsequently, and ADF personnel who died as a result of their service.
Legacy provides a range of programs and assistance aimed at helping families to live rich and meaningful lives. Services are delivered with discretion, sensitivity and commitment to its tradition of looking after the families of departed comrades.
Assistance includes:
Address: 41 Merivale Street, South Brisbane Qld 4101
Postal: PO Box 3003, South Brisbane Qld 4101
Telephone: (07) 3846 4299
Free Call: 1800 534 229
Fax: (07) 3846 2093
Email: admin@legacybrisbane.org.au
Website: www.legacy.com.au
Carers Queensland is the state-wide voice for family carers, representing and providing support to carers in Queensland providing carers with information and services to support them in their caring role.
Serices include: Counselling, advice, advocacy, education and training.
Address: 15 Abbott Street, Camp Hill QLD 4152
Telephone: (07) 3900 8100
Website: www.carersqld.asn.au/
Established to meet the needs of families caring for an adult with a disability in their own homes. Funded by the Home and Community Care program and Disability Services Qld. CODA is continuing to evolve into a service that recognises the continuing changes in lifestyles, and therefore endeavours to provide a flexible service that meets clients, carers and communities’ needs.
Address: 191 Cornwall Street, Greenslopes Qld 4120
Telephone: (07) 3393 0766
Fax: (07) 3393 1830
The Centre provides a single point of contact for carers seeking information and advice about the full range of services and other support available.
Care Resource Centres can give you up-to-date, relevant information about all the government programs that give support to carers.
Freecall: 1800 242 636
Centres provide free information about community aged care, disability and other support services within your local area including how to contact them, eligibility and costs associated with receiving the services. They can also provide information on age care assessment services for access to Community Aged Care packages or entry into aged care homes.
These Centres specialise in helping carers find and use respite services. The Centres work with carers to plan practical approaches to respite and other support needs, they can also arrange 24-hour emergency respite cover.
Telephone: 1800 052 222
After Hours: 1800 059 059
Website: www.commcarelink.health.gov.au
Complete Aged Care Placement Solutions is a service for individuals and their carers, seeking personalized assistance through the aged care placement. The fee structure varies depending on the level of service provided.
Services include: Consultation, direction & search for Residential Aged Care based on YOUR needs & in the areas of YOUR choice. Assistance with completing & lodging Residential Aged Care application documents.
Telephone: 1300 188 698
Mobile: 0418 814 534
Email: info@cacps.com.au
Website: www.cacps.com.au
A free of charge family mediation and counselling service, that is available to help families who are considering future care arrangements for a disabled family member.
Parents and families are sometimes unable to come to a unanimous decision on the best way to plan for the future of the family member in question. Issues such as the division of responsibility, for example the roles within the family for medical, financial, living or social issues of the disabled family member. The service is able to assist families with these difficult issues by introducing a neutral mediator or trusted professional to help negotiate favourable outcomes best suited for each individual family unit.
Counselling, Mediation, Information and Referral to other organisations will be offered when necessary. All services will be offered in the local area of the family concerned where possible.
Contact: Centacare Catholic Family and Community Services
Service name: Disability Carers Family Relationship Service
Telephone: (07) 3252 4371
Website: fahcsia.gov.au/sa/families/progserv/FRSP/Pages/frsp-FamilyMediationandCounselling.aspx
This program provides practical services, which help frail elderly people and younger people with a disability, to be cared for in their own home. There are also support services for carers.
Services available: Domestic assistance, personal care and social support, Home nursing, Respite Care, Home maintenance, modifications, Support Services for Carers, Meal Services, Allied health services, Transport. Some services require a small contribution depending on the situation. Special consideration is given to people who are financially disadvantaged.
For more information call the Carer Resource Centre Information and Support Line.
Free Call: 1800 242 636
Website: www.health.qld.gov.au/hacc
Home Instead Senior Care provides a wide range of non-medical services, aimed at keeping senior care at home. Services are from a few hours a day, up to 24 hours, seven days a week including weekends and public holidays. A fee for this service applies.
Services include:
Brisbane North
Address: Level 3, Toowong Tower, 9 Sherwood Road, Toowong Qld 4066
Telephone: (07) 3720 8400
Fax: (07) 3720 8644
Email: info@homeinstead.com.au
Brisbane South
Address: Suite 6, 200 Evans Road, Salisbury Qld 4107
Telephone: (07) 3277 3077
Fax: (07) 3277 6677
Email: bris.southcent@homeinstead.com.au
Caboolture
Address: Suite 10, Evergreen Lifestyle Centre, 12 Discovery Drive, North Lakes Qld 4509
Telephone: (07) 3482 0800
Fax: (07) 3482 3672
Email: info@homecareconnect.com.au
Gold Coast
Address: Suite 5A, Ground Floor, 142 Bundall Road, Bundall Qld 4217
Telephone: (07) 5574 3286
Fax: (07) 5574 3289
Email: info@hiscgoldcoast.com.au
Website: www.homeinstead.com.au
LifeTec Queensland is a leading provider of information, consultation, and education on assistive technology that can help individuals improve their quality of life. Assistive technology is a global term for assistive equipment, any device or system that provides people with practical solutions to everyday life activities.
LifeTec provides people with direct access to professional, unbiased advice to assist them in making an informed decision about the most appropriate assistive technology or other practical solutions for their greater independence in daily life, easier caring, and improved quality of life.
LifeTec Queensland does not sell, or hire out equipment and can therefore provide unbiased advice.
LifeTec provides talks, displays and practical demonstrations of assistive technology for community groups and exhibitions throughout Queensland. They also deliver practical and interactive professional development workshops.
Brisbane
Address: Level 1, Reading Newmarket, Corner Newmarket & Enoggera Roads, Newmarket Qld 4051
Telephone: (07) 3552 9000
Toll Free: 1300 885 886
Fax: (07) 3552 9088
Open: Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm; Saturday, 9am to 2pm
Email: mail@lifetec.org.au
Website: www.lifetec.org.au
Townsville
Address: Shop G-3A, Domain Central, 103 Duckworth Street, Garbutt, Townsville Qld 4814
Telephone: (07) 4759 5600
Fax: (07) 4759 5688
This program has been established by the Domiciliary Allied Health Team (DAHT) in collaboration with HACC to assist HACC eligible people to maintain/improve their home management skills and resources.
Telephone: (07) 3163 1760
LANDS is a Community organisation which is HACC funded. To be eligible for this service, you need to meet the following criteria:
Email: admin@landsinc.org.au
Website: www.lands.org.au
Community Bridging Program
Address: 2/1 Station Road, Woodridge Qld 4114
Telephone: (07) 3387 5000
Fax: (07) 3299 3035
Email: bridging@landsinc.org.au
Community Transport Options
Providing transport to all health and medical appointments in Brisbane South and Logan, Shopping Trips in Logan and Wynnum/Manly areas and Social Activities in the Logan area.
Address: 1/36 Brandl Street, Eight Mile Plains Qld 4113
Telephone: (07) 3422 7999
Fax: (07) 3423 1490
Community Outreach
Provides support, activities and outings for hostel, boarding house and other residents living in marginalised accommodation in the West End area who are socially isolated.
Telephone: (07) 3844 2533
Email: outreach@landsinc.org.au
Ozcare is a leading non-profit organisation that provides a wide range of Community and Health Services. These services are available to all members of the community. Consistent with Christian values, these services are delivered compassionately and professionally.
Services include:
Address: 66 River Terrace, Kangaroo Point Qld 4169
Telephone: (07) 3028 9000
Fax: (07) 3028 9199
Website: www.ozcare.org.au
Palliative Care Australia is the peak national organisation representing the interests and aspirations of all who share the ideal of quality care at the end of life for all.
Palliative Care Australia is an incorporated body whose members are the eight state and territory palliative care associations and the Australian and New Zealand Society of Palliative Medicine. The membership of these associations includes palliative care service providers, clinicians, allied health professionals, academics, consumers and members of the general community.
Address: Suite 4, 37 Geils Court, Deakin ACT 2600
Postal: PO Box 24, Deakin West ACT 2600
Telephone: (02) 6232 4433
Website: www.palliativecare.org.au
This company is a family owned and operated, committed to providing high quality personal care and consultancy services to people with a disability and the aged. Their aim is to assist clients to achieve their maximum quality of life in the environment of their choice – their own home. To facilitate this they provide the following services:
To find out more about how this company can assist you and your family, or to order a free information pack outlining their professional services and fees in detail, call the office during the hours 8.30am – 5.00pm.
Address: 14 Oxford Close, Sippy Downs Qld 4556
Telephone: (07) 5477 1558
Fax: (07) 5456 2933
RSL Home Care is available to all members of the community. Costs vary depending on eligibility for programs such as Home Care, Community Nursing and Community Care packages. Most programs require a minimal co-payment.
RSL Home Care services include:
Address: 301 Wickham Street, Fortitude Valley Qld 4006
Telephone: 1800 888 775
Website: www.rslcare.com.au
We deliver community care as far north as Townsville, as far south as Coolangatta and across Queensland’s South West, helping our clients maintain their independence and live a healthier happy life in their own homes.
Our social services programs serve many different parts of the community throughout Brisbane and Southeast Queensland. We work in collaboration with the communities in which we live, as well as with community and government agencies.
Spiritus offers fully accredited residential aged care, with varying accommodation and care services available, including low care, high care, respite and special care.
Also offering independent living opportunities from many residential sites where we welcome new residents into a caring Christian community lifestyle.
Other services include counselling, domestic assistance, respite and palliative care.
Spiritus shared services - reception:
Address: 138 Juliette Street, Greenslopes Qld 4120
Postal: PO Box 167, Stones Corner Qld 4120
Telephone: (07) 3421 2800
Website: www.spiritus.org.au
TADQ is a not-for-profit organisation and registered charity that provides technical support for people with disabilities and the frail aged to assist with their everyday life.
TADQ accepts requests from clients or by referrals through rehabilitation professionals. We deliver project services to the community through the skills of our Volunteers.
Our Project Team work with the TADQ Volunteers to design, modify and create unique pieces of equipment not commercially available.
Recent TADQ projects for adults include grocery winches, fold-down shower seats; hair-dryer stands for adults, and cubby house modifications, extended easels, and tactile floor modules for children.
Address: Unit 1, “Nexus” 23 Ashtan Place, Banyo Qld 4014
Telephone: 1300 663 243
Email: tadq@tadq.org.au
Website: www.technicalaidqld.org.au
4RPH is a non-profit charitable organisation providing access to print information, through the medium of Radio, to people with a print disability.
4RPH is a community Radio station on 1296AM broadcasting 24 hours a day to southeast Queensland. The unique radio reading service covering newspapers, magazines and books is performed entirely by volunteers.
Address: Unit 3, 17 Henry Street, Spring Hill Qld 4000
Telephone: (07) 3831 1296
Fax: (07) 3831 8099
Email: radio4rphnews@uq.net.au
Website: www.uq.net.au/4rph
Who to call for financial advice:
Lifeline Community Care provides a variety of counselling services, support groups and community education programs, aimed at enhancing the lives of children, families and individuals in the community.
Services include:
Face to face counselling, free independent financial advice, disaster recovery, disability services, gambling counselling,
suicide prevention, bereavement services, youth services, aged care visitation, and welfare programs.
24 Hour Crisis Counselling Line 13 11 14
Financial First Aid Hotline 13 11 15 (4.00pm to 8.00pm, Monday to Thursday)
Address: 117 Gipps Street, Fortitude Valley Qld 4006
Telephone: (07) 3250 1900
Website: www.lccq.org.au
A community based program providing no interest loans for families and individuals on a low income, enabling them to access fair and safe loans for the purchase of essential goods and services.
NILS is not for emergency relief, e.g. bond or rent money, living expenses or debt repayment.
StepUP Loan is a low interest loan between $800 and $3000 for individuals and families on a low income.
Loans can be used to purchase household items, scound hand cars, computers, medical and dental expenses and house repairs.
StepUP is a non-profit loan developed by Good Shepherd Microfinance and NAB and is offered by a range of community groups across Australia.
Telephone:
Website: www.goodshepvic.org.au/nils/page/96/
A free Red Cross service providing social telephone calls to people in the community looking for support, friendship and community connection.
TeleChat calls are provided Monday to Friday. Times may vary depending on location and volunteer availability.
For information on receiving or volunteering for this service, phone 1300 885 698 or email qldagedcare@redcross.org.au.
Relationships Australia (QLD) provides relationship support services to individuals, couples and families throughout Queensland. Our services aim to strengthen and build relationships, resolve relationship breakdown issues and support the best interests of children through family separation.
We also offer a number of specialist counselling services, courses and education programs.
Telephone: 1300 364 277
Website: www.relationships.com.au
The St Vincent de Paul Society offers a variety of services throughout Queensland to assist the disadvantaged.
These services include accommodation services, home visitation, home maintenance and modifications, referrals, family care and support, budgeting counselling and food distribution.
Telephone: (07) 3010 1000
Fax: (07) 3010 1099
Email: state.admin@svdpqld.org.au
Website: www.vinnies.org.au
ANZ has partnered with the Brotherhood of St Laurence to offer the Progress Loan. A loan for Health Care and Pensioner Concession card holders for the purchase of life's necessitites.
Telephone: 1300 576 799
Email: progressloan@anz.com
The Salvation Army offers a range of support options to help with social difficulties. They provide unlimited practical assistance for low-income families and individuals who are struggling to make ends meet.
They can help in every situation – unemployment, homelessness, poverty, abuse, self-help, aged & disabled care and much more.
Community Services Centre: May offer cash/cheque for: food vouchers or parcels; toys and food hampers for Christmas; clothing, furniture and other household items; accommodation; housing costs; electricity, gas, rates and other household bills; public transport fares; and medical and educational expenses.
Financial Budgeting: Moneycare is a free and confidential financial counselling service for people facing financial difficulties or wanting to avoid financial difficulties in the future.
Telephone: 1300 363 622
Website: www.salvos.org.au
The VVCS provides counselling and group programs to Australian veterans, peacekeepers and their families. It is a specialised, free and confidential Australia-wide service.
VVCS staff are qualified psychologists or social workers with experience in working with veterans, peacekeepers and their families. They can provide a wide range of treatments and programs for war and service-related mental health conditions including post traumatic stress disorder.
Address: 15 Astor Terrace, Spring Hill Qld 4004
Telephone: (07) 3303 9433
Website: www.dva.gov.au
Wesley Mission’s Emergency Relief Service responds to people from all walks of life who are disadvantaged through poverty, unemployment, ill-health, homelessness, relationship breakdowns, and times of sudden crisis.
Assistance includes food vouchers and grocery parcels, emergency financial assistance, advocacy and negotiation with creditors, emergency suburban rail vouchers, emergency pharmaceutical script vouchers and information about and referrals to other welfare services.
Appointment is essential.
Telephone: (07) 3321 6558
Fax: (07) 3839 3804
Website: www.wesleymission.org.au
Aid fot the Blind has a Computer Club organised for tutoring Blind or Vision Impaired Children aged between 2 and a half and 5 years old.
Sessions run for half an hour between 9.00am and 1.00pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Appointments are necessary.
Telephone: (07) 3846 5559
For students with vision impairment support is available from birth or age of diagnosis to school leaving age and is provided through an array of educational programs.
Support for individual students includes:
Address: Disability Services Support Unit, Buranda Campus, 17 Churchill Street, Buranda Qld 4102
Telephone: (07) 3247 3288
Fax: (07) 3238 3857
Website: education.qld.gov.au/studentservices/learning
Guide for Parents Website: education.qld.gov.au/studentservices/learning/disability/ parentguide/
Specialises in catering for the needs of people who are blind or Vision impaired through teaching:
Telephone: (07) 3826 3703 - Disability Support Officer
Website: www.msit.tafe.qld.gov.au
The School provides for the educational needs of students from birth until the end of their semester allocation of schooling. Educational programs are offered to students who are vision impaired and vision impaired with additional disabilities.
Address: 25 Salisbury Street, Buranda Qld 4102
Telephone: (07) 3823 0777
Fax: (07) 3823 0700
Email: the.principal@narbethongspecs.eq.edu.au
Website: www.narbethongspecs.eq.edu.au
This programme is administered by Centacare "Sunybank Aged Care Project" at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Parish Sunnybank. The purpose of the programme is to offer weekly phone calls and access to personal safety devices which allow older members of the Sunnybank and surrounding suburbs to live in there own home. Residents who live in Sunnybank area and are over 65 years (50 years or older if indigenous) are eligible and are assessed by Centacare "Sunnybank Aged Care Project".
Telephone: (07) 3216 9554
Queensland Fire and Rescue Service (QFRS) can provide you with on-the-spot advice regarding fire safety. Operation Safehome is one of QFRS's premier community safety initiatives and enables you to obtain life-saving information in your home.
As part of the program, fire fighters will inspect your home and advise on the best location for smoke alarms, assist in the formulation of a home evacuation plan and address the specific needs of householders such as the correct and safe storage of chemicals.
Operation Safe Home is free to all Queensland households.
Telephone: 1800 815 080 / 1300 369 003
Website: www.fire.qld.gov.au
Queensland is no stranger to natural events and disasters and the State Emergency Service (SES) provides a vital emergency response to communities during storm and flood emergencies.
If you require help from your local SES during floods or storms there is only one number to call.
Telephone: 132 500
It is important to note Triple Zero (000) remains the number to call for life-threatening emergencies but for help from the SES you can call 132 500.
A booklet titled “Storm Preparation Booklet” is available from this office. Please contact us on (07) 3848 8888 for a copy.
The National Disability Coordination Officer and James Cook University Access Ability Services are working together to provide a free service to help graduates with a disability secure employment.
Telephone: NDCO Gary Travers 0488 794 483
Email: garyt@steps.net.au
An employment service for people with a disability. The Department of Family and Community Services fund the service.
Telephone: (07) 3710 2011 or
(07) 3710 2018 (sensory impaired job seekers)
Fax: (07) 3273 3413
Website: www.comepass.com.au
This group provides specialised employment help for people with disabilities. Once assessed for eligibility for help, you are then provided with information on suitable services in your area. Contact Centrelink Employment Services for more information.
Telephone: 13 28 50
An Australian Government Initiative. This resource has been designed as a one-stop shop for all matters relating to employment of people with disability. There is also assistance available to eligible business owners with a disability, to pay for the cost of workplace adjustments and modifications.
Address: PO Box 510, Subiaco, WA, 6904
Telephone: 1800 464 800
Fax: (08) 9388 7799
Website: www.jobaccess.gov.au
Salubrious Productions is a Brisbane-based entertainment and production agency representing a diverse range of artists and acts, with a specialty in representing professional artists with a disability.
Telephone: (07) 3855 3048
Mobile: 0414 385 530
Fax: (07) 3355 1650
Email: info@salubriousproductions.com
Website: www.salubriousproductions.com
Provides employment opportunities through recruitment training and job placement services for people with a disability. Offices are based at Palm Beach, Southport, Carina, Toowong and Caboolture.
Telephone: (07) 3371 1366 Toowong
Fax: (07) 3371 4342
The Spectrum Organisation is making a difference assisting people who have varying degrees of disability to find and maintain open employment. Spectrum Employment is a free service and also offers counselling/psychology services and a Health and Recreation Centre.
Telephone: (07) 3205 7664
Fax: (07) 3881 3306
Email: manager@spectrum.org.au
Whether you are an experienced volunteer or you are just starting out, this site provides information as well as the opportunity to link to thousands of volunteer opportunities throughout the State.
Telephone: (07) 3002 7600
Email: vq@volqld.org.au
Website: www.volqld.org.au
Glaucoma Australia is a non-profit registered charity, which aims to minimise visual disability by providing awareness and funding glaucoma research.
Glaucoma Australia offers counselling to sufferers, and produces an informative newsletter.
Address: Level 2, 20 Clarke Street, Crows Nest, NSW, 2065
Postal: PO Box 420, Crows Nest, NSW, 1585
Free Call: 1800 500 880
Telephone: (02) 9906 6640
Fax: (02) 9439 8736
Email: glaucoma@glaucoma.org.au
Website: www.glaucoma.org.au
They provide the following statewide services:
Address: 1978 Gympie Road, Bald Hills QLD 4036
Postal: PO Box 50, Bald Hills QLD 4036
Telephone: (07) 3261 7555
Free Call: 1800 810 122
Fax: (07) 3261 7500
Email: admin@guidedogsqld.com.au
Website: www.guidedogsqld.com.au
Bundaberg
Address: GDQ Shop, 15 McLean Street, Bundaberg Qld 4670
Telephone: (07) 4151 6722
Fax: (07) 4152 8443
Email: bundy@guidedogsqld.com.au
Cairns
Address: Virginia House, Suite 8, 68 Abbott Street, Cairns Qld 4870
Telephone: (07) 4041 2788
Fax: (07) 4041 5206
Email: cairns@guidedogsqld.com.au
Gold Coast
Address: Turpin House, 233 Turpin Road, Southport Q 4215
Telephone: (07) 5528 0433
Fax: (07) 5528 0533
Email: gold@guidedogsqld.com.au
Rockhampton
Address: 20 Upper Dawson Road, Allenstown Q 4700
Telephone: (07) 4922 6667
Fax: (07) 4922 6653
Email: rocky@guidedogsqld.com.au
Sunshine Coast
Address: Shop 7, 151 Horton Pde, Maroochydore Q 4558
Telephone: (07) 5443 8033
Fax: (07) 5443 9133
Email: sunshine@guidedogsqld.com.au
Toowoomba
Address: 270 Margaret Street, Toowoomba Q 4350
Telephone: (07) 4632 6944
Fax: (07) 4639 3663
Email: toowoomba@guidedogsqld.com.au
Townsville
Address: 123 Ross River Road, Mundingburra Q 4812
Telephone: (07) 4728 6922
Fax: (07) 4728 5933
Email: townsville@guidedogsqld.com.au
This Foundation was formed to support those living with Macular Degeneration and their carers. It is an independent, not for profit organisation committed to education, awareness, research, support services and representation through fundraising.
The Foundation can provide information on preventative measures, early detection, treatments, rehabilitation and the Navigator Homes Access Program (NHAP). NHAP is a portable device that reads books and newspapers aloud.
It also has an advisory panel of world leading medical specialists.
To obtain a free Macular Degeneration information pack or for further information please contact:
Address: Suite 302, 447 Kent Street, Sydney NSW 2000
Telephone: 1800 111 709 / (02) 9261 8900
Fax: (02) 9261 8912
Email: info@mdfoundation.com.au
Website: www.mdfoundation.com.au
The Prevent Blindness Foundation’s mission is to improve the eye healthcare of the community through research, teaching and clinical care and is the only organisation dedicated solely to the prevention of blindness. It is based at the Mater Hospital.
The Foundation achieves its aims by:
Address: Level 2, Queensland Eye Institute, 41 Annerley Road, South Brisbane Qld 4101
Telephone: (07) 3010 3370
Fax: (07) 3010 3390
Email: info@pbf.org.au
Web: www.pbf.org.au
Services provided include:
Address: “Harris Terrace”, Level One, 46 George Street Brisbane Qld 4003
Telephone/Fax: (07) 3003 0065
Free Call: 1800 000 999
Email: admin@retinaqld.org.au
Website: www.retinaqld.org.au
Office hours Monday to Friday 10am to 3pm
Stargardt’s Australia is a volunteer organisation dedicated to increasing the awareness of this disease and investigating new methods of treatment, while providing support and information for those with the disease through online newsletters and forum.
Email: info@stargardts-au.org
Website: www.stargardts-au.org
The Association is committed to improving the health and welfare of children and adults diagnosed with CHARGE syndrome by providing information through online newsletters and articles, and organised events for members.
CHARGE syndrome refers to individuals born with growth defects or with developmental delay of eyes (Coloboma), ears, and other body systems. Due to the hearing and vision anomalies, many of these individuals are diagnosed as deaf-blind.
Through fundraising, the Association is able to maintain free membership and provide small financial assistance to members in certain circumstances.
Address: PO Box 91, Glenfield NSW 2167
Telephone: (02) 9605 8475
Fax: (02) 9605 8759
Email: austcharge@hotmail.com
Web: www.chargesyndrome.org.au
This organisation provides support and services to people who are blind and vision impaired throughout Queensland. Services include:
Address: 373 Old Cleveland Rd Coorparoo Qld 4151
Postal Address: PO Box 1637 Coorparoo DC Qld 4151
Telephone: 1300 847 466
Telephone: (07) 3727 2345
Fax: (07) 3727 2222
Email: info@visionaustralia.org
Website: www.visionaustralia.org
Access Food Bank – Low Cost Food for the community.
Address: Annerley Church of Christ, 459 Annerley Rd Annerley QLD 4103
Opening Hours: Every Tuesday 10.30am till 1.00pm
Phone: (07) 3892 2568
At Loaves and Fishes, anyone with a pension or health care card can purchase pantry basics, meat, dairy, frozen foods and fresh fruit and vegetables for a low price.
Food Club for members only ($20 yearly membership fee)
Address: 29 Mary Street, Kingston QLD 4114
Phone: (07) 3808 5713
Fax: (07) 3808 4264
Web: loavesandfishes.org.au
Email: info@loavesandfishes.org.au
Meals on Wheels provides a flexible and nutritional meal service for the frail aged, younger people with a disability and their carers throughout Queensland.
Costs range from $5 - $10 per meal.
Telephone: (07) 3205 5588
Email: info@qmow.org
Website: www.qmow.org
River of Grace Church has a food barn that, depending on availability, provides free food to struggling families. The Food Barn also has a discount grocery store, where customers can purchase discount quality foods, food parcels and veggie packs.
Address: 16 Queens Road, Kingston QLD 4114
Food Barn Hours: Monday to Saturday from 8.30am
Phone: (07) 3290 3610
Fax: (07) 3290 3566
Website: www.riverofgracechurch.org
Disability Information Service is a one-stop information service, with information on services and support for people with a disability. This service has a regularly updated computer database of services and a large collection of printed material.
Telephone: (07) 3224 8444, Monday to Friday 9am – 5 pm
Fax: (07) 3896 3467
Toll Free: 1800 177 120
TTY Toll Free: 1800 010 222
TTY Local: (07) 3896 3471
Email: disabilityinfo@disability.qld.gov.au
Website: www.disability.qld.gov.au/disability-information
Email: infoservice@llifeline.org.au
Website: www.lifeline.org.au
This is a national information and referral service that aims to answer questions about blindness and vision impairment. The Service is confidential and available to anyone requiring assistance. Requested information is also available in altenative formats. VIL assists people locating services relevant to their needs. The hours are 8.30am to 5.00pm AEST.
Telephone: 1300 847 466
Email: visioninfo@visionaustralia.org
Website: www.visionaustralia.org
Postal Service for the Blind
Libraries will post audio books for free to their members who are legally blind. To apply for this service, you must be a Brisbane resident and you will need to complete and send an application form from any Brisbane City Council library.
Home Library Service
The Council libraries offer free home delivery for Brisbane residents who are confined to their homes due to ill health or physical disability. The delivery service is also available to people who are at home recovering from operations. Library staff will select items to suit your preferences and deliver them to you monthly.
To apply for this service you will need to complete and send an application form from any Brisbane City Council library.
Telephone (07) 3403 8888
Website: www.brisbane.qld.gov.au
The MD Foundation provides a Navigator talking book for those who are eligible via the Foundations new Navigator Home Access Program (NHAP).
The Navigator is a portable, easy-to-use device that reads books and newspapers aloud. The content is loaded onto the Navigator at home via an easy to use website that offers thousands of book titles and all major newspapers.
To be eligible you must have Macular Degeneration, be registered with the MDF, have access to broadband internet connection and have someone who can load the content from the website onto the Navigator.
To register go to the website at www.mdfoundation.com.au/NHAP.
This organisation provides the following services on site or by correspondence.
Address: 507 Ipswich Road, Annerley Qld 4103
Open: Monday & Friday 8:30am to 1:30pm
Telephone: (07) 3848 5257
Fax: (07) 3848 8099
Email: qbwa@bigpond.com
Web: www.e-bility.com/qbwa
Audio information services for people with print disabilities. Services provided:
Address: 373 Old Cleveland Road, Coorparoo Qld 4151
Postal Address: PO Box 1383, Coorparoo DC Qld 4151
Telephone: (07) 3324 0004
Fax: (07) 3324 2191
Email: qns@qns.net.au
Web: www.qns.net.au
This service ensures that people who are blind, vision impaired or have a print disability can enjoy access to information and recreational reading.
Hours: Monday to Friday 8.30am – 6pm
Address: 454 Glenferrie Road, Kooyong Vic 3144
Toll Free: 1300 654 656
Fax: (03) 9864 9677
Email: library@visionaustralia.org
Website: www.visionaustralia.org under the Library tab
Queensland members who receive the service through the Department of Veteran Affairs telephone 1800 335 588
The team consists of an Ophthalmologist, 2 Optometrists, a Social Worker, an Optical Dispenser, an Occupational Therapist and the service of an orientation and mobility field officer providing:
Appointment can be made by calling Monday to Friday between 8am to 5pm. Assessments are held on Tuesdays only.
Address: Greenslopes Private Hospital, Low Vision Clinic, Newdegate Street, Greenslopes Qld 4120
Telephone: (07) 3394 7670
Fax: (07) 3394 7469
Website: www.greenslopesprivate.com.au/services/low vision.asp
The aim of the Queensland Eye Hospital is to provide a full range of ophthalmic services to all patients at a reasonable cost regardless of their choice of health cover.
The Hospital provides excellence in surgical eye care delivered in a personal, caring, cost effective and compassionate environment.
Address: Ground Floor, Leichhardt Court, 55 Little Edward Street, Spring Hill, Qld 4001
Telephone: (07) 3236 9844
Fax: (07) 3236 9855
Email: info@qldeye.com
Website: www.qldeye.com
Open: 7 am to 5 pm weekdays
The School of Optometry at the Queensland University of Technology operates a comprehensive Optometry Clinic which is available to the public.
Specialist Services and Clinics:
Appointments can be made Monday to Friday 8.30am – 5.00pm. Referrals to other community services can be arranged if necessary.
Address: QUT Health Clinics, Optometry, Ground Floor, 44 Musk Avenue, Kelvin Grove Qld 4059
Telephone: (07) 3138 5743
Fax: (07) 3138 9799
Email: healthclinics@qut.edu.au
Website: www.hlth.qut.edu.au/opt/clinic
Dialabetes is a telephone service that contacts diabetics every morning, 365 days a year by phone making sure they haven’t lapsed into a diabetic coma overnight.
If you can’t pick-up after several attempts, we will call your nominated contacts. If they don’t respond then you have the option to Activate 000 services.
Cost is around $30 per month.
Telephone: 1300 797 702
Website: www.dialabetes.com.au
Carelink Medical Alarms is a 24-hour monitoring system that connects you to help whenever you may need it.
Carelink Medical Alarms are designed to assist those who are disabled, elderly or infirm living independently in the community. It can also be used on a short-term basis for people recovering from illness, recuperating at home from surgery, or when elderly relatives visit.
Telephone: (07) 3451 2014
Arundel Park offers horse riding lessons and recreational horse riding for people with disabilities. There are 20 acres and a roofed area for all weather. There are 25 horses and 100 people with disability riders. Also carriage driving to offer people who are unable to ride, the only restriction is weight and Doctor’s approval.
Address: Attention: Karen Greedy, P O Box 210, Helensvale Qld 4212
Telephone: (07) 5594 0305
Fax: (07) 5574 4836
Website: www.blindsailingaustralia.org/index.html
Provides funding opportunities, support and promotion for blind or vision impaired people to participate in the sport, recreation or community activity of their choice.
Telephone: (08) 8232 4644
Fax: (08) 8232 4622
Email: enquiries@bsc.asn.au
Website: www.blindsport.com.au
Swish is a modified version of table tennis for blind, vision impaired and sighted people.
Address: Rooms at Vision Australia, Kent Street, Woolloongabba Qld 4102
Telephone: (07) 3254 0895 Mark Muscat (President)
Meets: Thursdays from 6.00pm to 9.00pm
Website: www.qswish.org
The Kiama Lions Club have launched a project called the Children's Audio Theatre. They have porduced 5 fully dramatised CD's with music and soud effects for children and adults who are vision impaired.
Telephone: 0459 521 697
Email: sales@childrens-audio-theatre.org.au
Website: www.childrens-audio-theatre.org.au
The Cinema Access Implementation Plan has been put forward by Australia's four major cinema groups with funding from the Australian Government. The Plan aims to "fast track" new audio description and captioning technology for people who are vision impaired or have a hearing impairment. For a list of participating cinemas go to
Website: www.yourlocalcinema.com.au
Address: North Toowoomba Bowls Club, Elworthy Street, Toowoomba Qld 4350
Telephone: (07) 4634 1272
Meets: Every Friday $5.00 for morning tea. Bar and refreshments available.
Time: 9.00am – 12pm
Contact: Anne Rietkerk (President)
Address: Robina Bowls Club, Ron Penhalagon Way, Robina Qld 4226
Telephone: (07) 5531 2669 President Cyril Richard
Meets: Every Friday 9.30 – 11.30am
Address: Carrara Golf Course
Telephone: (07) 5528 0433 Lesleigh Ponti
Meets: 2nd and 4th Monday of every month
The main aim is to provide riding lessons for people with a disability and encourage them to ride to the best of their ability.
Address: Moggill & Mt Crosby Roads, Pinjarra Hills Qld 4069
Telephone: (07) 3202 6300
Fax: (07) 3202 8059
Email: mcintyre@rda.asn.au
Website: www.rda.asn.au (for other locations throughout Queensland view this site)
Address: Enoggera Bowls Club, Pickering Street, Enoggera Qld
Telephone: (07) 3274 4774 President Christine Henry
The Association caters for people who have a love for cricket and like to be involved in sporting events. People with vision impairments have the opportunity to play cricket at the Club on Sundays and under 16 years are also welcome to join. People must be in receipt of a DSP Blind Pension.
Playing Field
Address: Yeronga Park 104 Villa Street, Annerley Qld 4103
Postal: Hon Secretary PO Box 39 Ipswich Qld 4305
Telephone: Clubhouse: (07) 3848 4669 Secretary: (07) 3202 2820
Email: qbca@internode.on.net
Website: www.qbca.org.au
Roma Street Parklands has a guided Sensory walk designed to stimulate the senses, memory and mood.
The Sensory Walk is aimed to stimulate the senses, memory and mood. It is designed for individuals that have a vision impairment and individuals living with brain injuries. This walk is largely based around the quiet surrounds of the Spectacle Garden and The Forest. This walk was trialled with consultants from Vision Australia to ensure the walk meet visitor needs. The walk can also cater for individuals and groups looking for a different way to explore the Parkland surrounds.
Bookings are essential and are required at least 24 hours in advance. For bookings or enquiries:
Telephone: (07) 3006 4545 during business hours
Email: rsp@romastreetparkland.com
A non-profit organisation dedicated to increasing sailing opportunities for everyone, regardless of age or disability. It caters for people with a wide range of disabilities and sailing experience. It has sailing venues at the Bayside, Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast.
Postal Address: PO Box 877 Runaway Bay Qld 4216
Website: www.sailability.org/au/australia
Telephone: 0400 742 053 Bernie
Encourages, facilitates and co-ordinates programmes and opportunities for people of all ages and level of ability that fall within the areas of Sport, Recreation and Fitness.
The Association is State wide and has Sport and Recreation staff.
Address: 60 Edmondstone Road, Bowen Hills Qld 4006
Telephone: (07) 3253 3333
Fax: (07) 3253 3322
Email: mail@sportingwheelies.org.au
Website: www.sportingwheelies.org.au
Crossroads' (Qld) mission is to share Christian fellowship with people with disabilities, their families and their carers. They do this through a range of social, recreational, respite and holiday programs that provide life enriching experiences and relationships. Other Uniting Care Qld serice organisations include:
Addrss: 91 Maundrell Terrace, Chermside West Qld 4032
Telephone: (07) 3350 8500
Fax: (07) 3256 4734
Email: info@xrdsqld.org.au
Website: www.xrdsqld.org.au
An online space offering fun and games for children of all abilities. The ePlayground is self-voicing, with a game mate to talk players through the ePlayground.
Website: http://www.allabilitiesplayground.net.au
Online games that blind / vision impaired and sighted people can play together as equals. Games include Crazy Eights and Poker. The games are designed to be accessible and to work with existing assistive technology. The products work seamlessly with screen readers.
Website: http://allinplay.com
A website devoted to games specifically designed for vision-impaired and blind players. All the games in the Blind gamers series are self-voicing, not requiring the use of your screen reader. They all use the Microsoft SAPI (Speech Applications Programming Interface) TTS (Text-To-Speech) engine for the speech component, and for the sound effects, they use Microsoft's DirectX.
Website: http://www.spoonbillsoftware.com.au/blindgamers.htm
Blind World is an Online Magazine where it keeps the world up to date with the latest news for the blind and vision impaired communities. There are a variety of interesting, informative and entertaining articles.
Website: www.home.earthlink.net/~blindworld
The kiosk services are delivered nationally through local community organisations or in suitable public places that service seniors. To find kiosks in your area contact the Broadband for Seniors Hotline.
Telephone: 1300 795 897
Website: www.mecseniors.net.au
Crafting-Without-Sight is an online group for blind or visually impaired individuals interested in crafts. Members discuss ideas, techniques, and methods for blind people to use their creative talents. All crafts are welcome.
Email: crafting-without-sight@yahoogroups.com
Website: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/crafting-without-sight/
The purpose of this website is:
This site is a place where people can access and exchange information that people with a myriad of disabilities would like to know.
Website: www.disabilityforum.org.au
Welcome to the home page of E-access Bulletin, a free, independent monthly e-mail newsletter on information technology issues for people with visual impairment and blindness.
The Bulletin covers everything from consumer electronics to the internet, examining design and access issues and technical developments.
Website: www.headstar.com/eab
This website lists games to download and can use Speech or Sounds. Some games are free while others you have to pay for. The list is updated regularly.
Website: www.pcsgames.net/game-co.htm