Welcome to the September edition of the Community care NewsDigest. In news this month, Ageing and Disability Commissioner Robert Fitzgerald has announced a review into disability advocacy in NSW that will include the purpose, functions and funding arrangements for independent specialist advocacy. An issues paper will be available in September, with face-to-face and telephone consultations to be held in October.

COTA NSW are recruiting volunteers to assist with the new Aged Care Navigator Trial in Penrith. If you would like to assist people in understanding how the aged care system works you can volunteer now. Details are in the NewDigest on-line.

Also, the Aged Care System Navigator Measure is currently being evaluated by the Australian Healthcare Associates. You can have your say by using the feedback form in the discussion paper or completing the online survey before 16 September.

In other news, service providers are advised that the National Aged Care Mandatory Quality Indicator Program data relating to pressure injuries and physical restraint are due for submission to the Department of Health by 21 October.

Western Sydney Community Forum invites CEOs, managers and team leaders to be a part of the conversation at the Western Sydney Community Care Leaders’ Mixer. Our guest speaker for the event is the Ageing and Disability Commissioner Robert Fitzgerald AM who will be discussing the progress the Commission has made to date and his vision for the organisation going into next year.

Finally, our featured article this month showcases Generation CommunitY, Western Sydney Community Forum’s leadership program designed for people under 35 who wish to develop their management skills in an environment of rapid and constant change.