Service Organisations
Alternatives to the Tribunal
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Financial problems
Centrelink nominee scheme - Centrelink may be able to make payments to a family member or friend nominated by the person who is entitled to the Centrelink payment. The nominated person is called a nominee. Being the nominee of a person with a disability may help family or relatives manage the person's finances to pay for their needs without the need for a formal financial management order.
Family disputes
Community Justice Centres (CJCs) - These provide mediation and conflict management services to help people resolve their own disputes. This service is useful for families who disagree about what should happen for a person who cannot make their own decisions. The service is free, confidential, voluntary and easy to use.
Aged Care
Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) - Every area of Australia has an aged care assessment team, made up of experienced aged care professionals including doctors, social workers and nurses. If you have concerns about an older person, you can contact your local ACAT for information to assist them with a variety of services. Your local doctor can help with more information about how to contact your local ACAT. Usually, you need a referral from your doctor to the ACAT for services to be provided.
Alzheimer's Australia - This organisation can provide information and support to people who have dementia and their family and carers. They run a dementia helpline on 1800 639 331.
Council on the Ageing NSW (COTA) - This organisation has an information line and provides counselling advice on issues relating to the aged. Their Seniors Information Service line is 131244.
Intellectual Disability
NSW Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care (DADHC) - This is the NSW Government department responsible for older people and people with intellectual disabilities in NSW. If you need information about assessment or case management for a person with an intellectual disability, contact your local DADHC office for assistance.
Intellectual Disability Rights Service (IDRS) - This organisation provides free legal and advocacy services for people who have an intellectual disability.
Mental Health
Community Mental Health Service - Each area has a community mental health service, comprising specialist mental health professionals. If you are worried about someone with a mental illness, ask your doctor about a referral to your local mental health service for assessment and support.
Legal Aid's Mental Health Advocacy Service - This service provides free legal advice about mental health law. It may represent clients at Guardianship Tribunal hearings.
Brain Injury
Brain Injury Association of NSW - The organisation provides information about the needs, services and issues affecting people who have an acquired brain injury. They also run support groups and some programs. They have a free information line - 1800 802 840.
Legal Issues
Community Legal Centres - Many areas of NSW have a community legal centre which can provide free legal advice and information on a range of topics.
Legal Information Access Centre - This service provides free, NSW-wide access to information about the law through the State Library and NSW public libraries, including public library LIACs.