News & insights

In 2024, the Australian Government passed new legislation that will require social media platforms to take reasonable steps to prevent children under 16 from creating or maintaining accounts. The Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Act will come into effect on 10 December 2025, and platforms that fail to comply could face penalties of up to $49.5 million. The government says the move aims to protect children from online harms such as cyberbullying, exposure to explicit content, and addictive algorithmic design. It’s a well-intentioned step towards safer online spaces, but for many young people with disability or neurodivergent traits, this ban could have serious unintended consequences. More than just an app: why social media matters for connection For children and teens with disability, social media can be more than entertainment; it’s often a lifeline. Online communities provide access to peer connection, advocacy spaces, and platforms for self-expression, particularly for those who experience social or physical barriers in offline settings. The ABC recently reported that disability advocates fear the ban will “cut off a lifeline” for young people who rely on digital platforms to connect with others who understand their lived experiences. For some, these are the only spaces where they feel seen, heard, and safe to be themselves. The Children and Young People with Disability Australia (CYDA) echoed these concerns, highlighting that young people with disability are already at higher risk of social isolation and that removing online connection could deepen that divide. The risk of isolation and exclusion Offline participation can be challenging for many young people with disability or neurodivergence due to accessibility barriers, sensory sensitivities, or anxiety. For these individuals, online environments can offer a controlled, customisable way to engage socially and emotionally. Removing that outlet may not only heighten feelings of isolation but could also lead to reduced self-esteem and mental health impacts. The UNSW Digital Child Research Centre warned that cutting off digital connection without offering safe, inclusive alternatives could “worsen mental health outcomes” for those who already face barriers to belonging. Expression, identity and advocacy For neurodivergent youth, social media can also serve as an important space for identity exploration and self-advocacy. Online platforms allow them to share experiences, raise awareness, and connect with mentors or role models. In an article by WhyNot Australia , a neurodivergent teen expressed concern that the ban could silence young voices who use digital spaces to express their authentic selves. “I’ve found people online who understand my brain when people at school don’t,” they said. “If that’s taken away, I lose part of who I am.” By applying a blanket restriction, the policy risks excluding those whose participation in online communities is not simply recreational, but developmental and therapeutic. Safety versus inclusion It’s important to acknowledge the government’s intent. The risks of unregulated online spaces are real—exposure to predators, misinformation, and harmful content has long been documented. But safety and inclusion shouldn’t be mutually exclusive. Advocates such as Advocacy for Inclusion argue that a one-size-fits-all approach may not be equitable. Instead, they suggest a model that includes exceptions or moderated access for vulnerable youth, alongside stronger digital literacy programs and family-guided online use. A path forward As policymakers finalise the rollout of the ban, consultation with disability and neurodivergent communities will be critical. The goal of online safety must extend beyond protection from harm, it must include equitable access to connection, communication, and self-expression. Some ideas proposed by advocates include: Safe-mode social platforms: verified, moderated access for under-16s with additional accessibility and privacy features Inclusion-based exemptions: allowing case-by-case access where social platforms serve therapeutic or developmental purposes Education over exclusion: teaching young people, families, and educators how to use social media safely, instead of removing it entirely Why this matters Digital connection is not a luxury; for many young people with disability, it’s a bridge to inclusion. By removing this access without inclusive alternatives, we risk deepening isolation and undoing years of progress towards digital accessibility and participation. As CYDA put it, “young people with disability are experts in their own lives.” They deserve a say in how safety is defined and achieved. At helpz, we believe in promoting inclusion across every environment, online and offline. As this policy develops, it’s important that we keep the voices and safety of young people with disability and neurodivergence at the centre of the conversation. References Prime Minister’s Office – Social Media Reforms to Protect Our Kids Online ABC News – Disability Community Fears Isolation Under Social Media Ban Children and Young People with Disability Australia (CYDA) UNSW Digital Child Research Centre WhyNot Australia – Social Media Ban: Neurodivergent Young People Weigh In Advocacy for Inclusion – Social Media Ban Risks Isolation for Disabled Youth

Across the NDIS space, Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) is playing an increasingly central role in how we understand and respond to behaviours of concern. But quality behaviour support doesn’t happen by accident. It’s built on a foundation of training, supervision and practical experience. If you’re exploring a pathway into behaviour support or looking to build internal capacity within your organisation, understanding how behaviour support training works is a valuable first step. What is Positive Behaviour Support? Positive Behaviour Support is a person-centred and evidence-based approach that aims to reduce behaviours of concern and improve quality of life. It focuses on understanding the reasons behind behaviour — not just the behaviour itself — and designing strategies that are proactive, practical and ethical. Rather than using reactive or restrictive approaches, PBS encourages support plans that look at environmental triggers, communication needs, daily routines and unmet goals. The aim is to build safer, more stable and more supportive environments for the people who need them. Who delivers behaviour support and how they are trained Under the NDIS Commission, behaviour support practitioners must demonstrate their capability to develop, implement and monitor behaviour support plans in line with legislative and clinical requirements . While practitioners often come from allied health or education backgrounds, the core requirement is evidence of knowledge and skill. Behaviour support training can include a mix of structured coursework, workshops, on-the-job learning and clinical supervision. Common areas of focus include: Functional behaviour assessment Designing interim and comprehensive behaviour support plans Understanding and reducing restrictive practices Working with families, guardians and multidisciplinary teams Meeting documentation and reporting standards required by the NDIS Commission For newer practitioners, supervision and mentoring are also key. This allows them to apply what they’ve learned in real-life settings while receiving guidance and feedback from experienced clinicians. Why behaviour support training matters Demand for behaviour support services is growing, particularly in regional and remote areas, but the number of qualified practitioners has struggled to keep pace. For providers, this gap creates challenges around service delivery, compliance and participant outcomes. Investing in practitioner training helps address this by growing the pool of people who can safely and confidently provide behaviour support. It also strengthens internal teams, reduces wait times for participants and improves long-term outcomes across the board.  Positive Behaviour Support practitioner training goes beyond meeting requirements. It ensures that behaviour support is grounded in evidence, aligned with human rights and delivered in a way that actually works for the people it's meant to support. How to know if behaviour support training is right for you or your team This kind of training is well-suited to people who want to: Expand their skill set in allied health, disability or education Enter the behaviour support space through structured learning and supervision Build clinical governance and quality frameworks within their organisation Support better outcomes for participants through more capable, confident staff If you’re a provider looking to upskill your team or a clinician seeking a pathway into behaviour support, training can open the door to new opportunities and help set a higher standard of care. Build behaviour support capability with helpz At helpz, we provide training, supervision and practical support through our Behaviour Support Development Program (BSDP). This flexible online program is hosted on Teachable and designed to help professionals build the knowledge and confidence to deliver Positive Behaviour Support that meets NDIS Commission standards. Participants receive expert guidance, access to clinical supervision and support with portfolio development, all within a framework grounded in real-world practice. As a national NDIS provider, helpz also offers therapy and allied health services across Behaviour Support, Counselling, Psychology, Social Work, Speech Pathology, Occupational Therapy, Dietetics and more. Get in touch with us to learn how you can become a Positive Behaviour Support practitioner.

Understanding Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus

Across recent team discussions, Behaviour Support Practitioners have been diving into a heartwarming and increasingly relevant topic: the therapeutic benefits of pets, particularly for older participants. Whether it’s the wag of a tail, the purr of a cat, or the gentle nudge of a nose, animals are proving to be more than just companions—they’re powerful contributors to emotional wellbeing. For many older participants, pets offer a sense of purpose, routine, and unconditional love. They can help reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation, which are common among those living alone or experiencing limited social interaction. The simple act of caring for a pet—feeding, grooming, walking—can foster independence and boost self-esteem. Research and anecdotal evidence alike show that pets can: Lower stress and anxiety levels Improve mood and emotional regulation Encourage physical activity and mobility Provide sensory comfort and grounding Support social connection through community pet events or casual chats with fellow pet lovers One Behaviour Support Practitioner shared a story about a participant whose mood and engagement dramatically improved after adopting a rescue dog. The participant began taking daily walks, chatting with neighbours, and even attending local dog meetups—activities that had previously felt out of reach. Interestingly, the benefits aren’t limited to dogs and cats. Birds, rabbits, guinea pigs, and even fish have been shown to offer calming effects and companionship. For participants in supported accommodation or those with limited mobility, low-maintenance pets can still provide meaningful interaction and joy. Practitioners are now exploring ways to incorporate pet therapy into behaviour support plans, including: Facilitated visits with therapy animals Support to adopt or foster pets Collaboration with local animal shelters and pet programs Education around pet care and responsibilities Of course, every participant’s needs and circumstances are different, and careful planning is essential. But the growing interest in pet-based therapeutic strategies reflects a broader commitment to holistic, person-centred support. As one practitioner put it: “Sometimes the best kind of support has four legs and a wagging tail.” Check out our photos of all the pets among the helpz family.

 By Tharon Neurodivergent Consultant at helpz

By Christopher Hills Behaviour Support Practitioner and Creative Therapy Lead

As we celebrate OT Week 2025 with the theme “Occupational Therapy in Action, ” it’s a chance to reflect on the heart of our profession- supporting people to live healthy, meaningful, and fulfilling lives. One of the most powerful frameworks we use is the PEO Model: Person, Environment, and Occupation. Our Practice Lead, Tran Vu, explains below. This model highlights the dynamic interaction between an individual, the environments they live in, and the occupations (activities) they engage in. Health is not just about physical care—it is holistic, shaped by body, mind, community, and purpose. The Person The person includes not only physical abilities but also cognitive, emotional, social, and spiritual dimensions. OTs work with people to build on their strengths and address barriers, whether that’s through pain management, developing coping strategies, or enhancing cognitive skills. Health is supported when people feel empowered, capable, and connected to their sense of identity and values. The Environment Health cannot be separated from the environment—our homes, workplaces, communities, and cultural contexts. OTs advocate for accessible spaces, inclusive workplaces, and supportive communities. By adjusting environments—whether with technology, design, or social supports—we create opportunities for participation, safety, and belonging. The Occupation Occupation refers to the activities that give life meaning—self-care, work, leisure, play, and community participation. OTs help people to find balance across these domains, reducing stress and supporting wellbeing. Whether it’s helping a child join in sport, an adult return to employment, or an older person maintain valued roles, occupation is at the centre of health. OT in Action: Holistic Health When the person, environment, and occupation fit together, health outcomes improve. Occupational therapists put this into action by: Promoting mental health: Through meaningful engagement in daily routines, hobbies, and social connection. Preventing chronic disease: Supporting lifestyle changes in nutrition, physical activity, and stress management. Enhancing community wellbeing: Building inclusive spaces where everyone can participate. Supporting resilience: Helping people adapt to life transitions, illness, or disability with dignity and independence. A Holistic Vision for OT Week 2025 “Occupational Therapy in Action” means more than supporting daily tasks—it means addressing the whole person, their environment, and the occupations that make life rich and purposeful. By applying the PEO Model, occupational therapists foster not only independence, but also wellbeing, resilience, and community connection. This OT Week, let’s celebrate the ways OTs bring health to life, holistically, inclusively, and meaningfully.

From Penrith to Hearts Everywhere: John’s Red Nose Day Impact