The work we do

STAR is committed to community inclusion in its entirety. Inclusion in pre-schools, schools, tertiary institutes, where you live, in recreation/leisure options, work and just ordinary life, together with equity and full participation are a right of all Victorian citizens.

STAR works to strengthen local communities, to initiate and build partnerships, not only within the disability sector, but also within community groups in the broader community context. It is vital for the well-being of people with disabilities to be connected to their local communities and have the opportunity to utilise and be supported by the additional resources available to all citizens.

Our advocacy

•  focuses on the fundamental rights ,human needs and interests of people and specifically prioritises those rights that have the greatest potential to minimise the person's vulnerability and maximise their independence

•  supports people with an intellectual disability to experience real choices and exercise control over their own lives

•  assists families to understand and respond to the changing nature of their role as a child progresses to adulthood enabling them to provide the appropriate support at different life stages , to be supportive without being controlling.

In this way STAR works at ensuring that inclusion, choice and independence are not simply rhetoric but a way of life that is meaningful and relevant to "ordinary people" wanting to lead "ordinary lives".

STAR works to mobilise people with a disability, those who support them and their networks, particularly at the local level throughout the state. When people become effective advocates for change, at the grassroots level, many things become possible in lives of individuals.

This means:

•  informing, assisting, empowering and advocating for people with disability and their families to access the same opportunities available to all Victorians

•  changing community attitudes

•  working individually and collectively to influence decision makers and bring about real and lasting change

STAR promotes action on issues that effect people with an intellectual disability throughout Victoria . STAR works to ensure quality, community-based supports for people with an intellectual disability and their families. STAR can provide individual advice and support to help you work towards achieving positive changes, and provide information to assist in making decisions.

STAR can inform you about rights, services and support and may advocate on an individual and/or systemic basis as appropriate. STAR continues to maintain a 'people perspective' on issues like housing, support services, education, recreation and income. STAR is part of a strong network of other disability groups committed to social action.

STAR offers information for display at parent forums and community events, workshops, conferences and speakers for pre-service and in-service training for workers in the field.

STAR works to change attitudes and to bring about the range of accessible and flexible services to meet the needs for people throughout their lives. All Victorians are entitled to a real life in a real community; through advocacy and information STAR aims to make this a reality.