OC Connections

26/05/2026

Today, on National Sorry Day, we remember and acknowledge the Stolen Generations - Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children who were taken from their families, communities and cultures under past government policies.

We recognise the deep and ongoing impact this continues to have, and we honour the strength and resilience of First Nations peoples.

National Sorry Day is an important opportunity for reflection, truth-telling and healing as we continue the journey toward reconciliation together.

We encourage everyone to take a moment today to reflect, learn and deepen their understanding.

For further information and resources, visit: https://healingfoundation.org.au

12/05/2026

Australia is introducing a new emergency warning system called AusAlert.

From October 2026, AusAlert will send urgent, location-based messages directly to compatible mobile phones and devices during emergencies such as bushfires, floods and major public safety incidents.

If an alert is issued, your device may make a loud siren-like sound, vibrate and display important information about what is happening and what you need to do. Some alerts may sound even if your phone is on silent or “Do Not Disturb”.

Before the system launches nationally, community testing will take place across Australia in June, and a national test will take place on Monday 27 July 2026 at 2:00pm AEST.

If you receive a test alert, you do not need to do anything.

We understand some people may have concerns about alerts sounding on hidden or secondary phones used for safety reasons, including in family and domestic violence situations. If needed, devices can be turned off or switched to aeroplane mode before scheduled testing times and left off for at least one hour.

To help ensure your device can receive alerts correctly, make sure your phone or device has the latest software updates installed.

If you are in immediate danger, call Triple Zero (000).

You can learn more about AusAlert, including how alerts work, community testing, and options for managing alerts on your device here: https://www.ausalert.gov.au/about-us/about-ausalert

09/05/2026

Take your shot in our Hole in One Competition for your chance to WIN a $25,000 Amaco Travel voucher!

Thanks to the incredible generosity of our major sponsor, Amaco Travel- experts in bespoke, seamless travel experiences backed by over 30 years of expertise - one swing could send you around the world.

Whether it’s a tailored escape for couples, a luxury family adventure, or a once-in-a-lifetime multigenerational trip, Amaco Travel specialises in creating personalised journeys that deliver access, flexibility, and unforgettable moments.

Secure your place at our Charity Golf Day today, with entry to the Hole in One challenge available on the day.

Don’t miss an unforgettable day of golf, prizes, and fun, made even more special with the support of Amaco Travel. We’ll see you on the green. Visit https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1535562 to book your tickets.

08/05/2026

Important conversations like these matter.

As the NDIS reform process continues to unfold, uncertainty remains for many people with disability, families, carers and providers across the sector.

This two-part episode of GET REAL from Ermha brings together sector leaders, lived experience voices and clinical perspectives to unpack what’s changing, what’s still unknown, and how we continue supporting people through uncertainty.

The NDIS will be undergoing significant reform. It has been a long, challenging lead-up to the news of the proposed changes ... and it's still a time of deep uncertainty for people with disabilities, and those who support them. In this 2-parter of GET REAL podcast, Karenza Louis-Smith and Emily Webb speak with special guests on what we know so far about the NDIS changes.

🎧PART 1 National Disability Services CEO Michael Perusco and Karenza unpack what is clear right now, what is still unknown, and how these changes could reshape eligibility and supports outside the scheme. https://www.buzzsprout.com/922639/episodes/19126067

🎧PART 2 focuses on self-care amid this time of uncertainty, starting with a lived experience perspective from Associate Professor and The Disability Trust board member Shane Clifton. You'll also hear from Evelyn Ireland, who is a psychologist, behaviour support practitioner and The Trust's General Manager Clinical Services. https://www.buzzsprout.com/922639/episodes/19133624

24/04/2026

You may have seen the Australian Government’s announcement on Wednesday, 22 April 2026 about changes to the NDIS.

We know updates like this can feel uncertain, and for many people in our community, this news may bring questions or concerns.

As a trusted, registered NDIS provider, we are here with you - you are not alone.

Across all of our services, our focus remains the same: Supporting you to live your life, your way.

Right now:
- Your supports continue as normal
- We are here to listen and support you
- We will keep you updated as more information becomes available.

The changes Government has announced will happen over time. If you would like to learn more, you can read the official information via the link in the comments.

We are here to help you understand what they mean for you, when the time is right.

If you have questions or just want to talk things through, please reach out to your usual contact.

We are here. We are listening. And we will navigate this together.

01/04/2026

We’re pleased to share the news that Bedford Group's Mount Gambier site has been secured.

This outcome brings stability to employees, staff and families in the region - something every community deserves.

Across our Group, we remain focused on creating environments where people feel connected, valued and supported.

31/03/2026

As OC Connections celebrates its 30th Annual Charity Golf Day, we’re seeking sponsors and supporters to help make this milestone event a success at the prestigious Metropolitan Golf Club.

There are plenty of ways to show your support and make an impact:
• Become an official sponsor
• Donate a prize for our raffle, giveaways or silent auction
• Volunteer on the day
• Share the event with your friends and colleagues

This is a great opportunity to align your brand with a purpose-driven event, connect with community, and support people with disability in a tangible way.

Join us in making this 30-year celebration one to remember.

Visit the link in bio to find out how you can be involved.

30/03/2026

Last week’s conversation around the NDIS is an important one.

Because at its heart, it’s about inclusion.

At OC Connections, we see every day how the right support opens doors — to community, connection, and a genuine sense of belonging.

New analysis highlighted reinforces this impact, showing improvements in wellbeing and participation when people have access to the supports they need.

Everyone deserves the opportunity to be part of their community, and to feel valued within it.

If you’d like to read more, we’ve shared the original ABC article here: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-03-25/ndis-participants-work-more-and-feel-better/106490952

New analysis by the e61 Institute, which tracks NDIS participants over more than a decade, finds substantial improvements to their workforce participation and self-reported energy levels within four years of accessing the taxpayer-funded scheme.

24/03/2026

Be part of something special as we celebrate OC Connections’ 30th Annual Charity Golf Day, hosted at The Metropolitan Golf Club — a world-class venue set within Melbourne’s renowned Sandbelt.

Date: Monday 27 July 2026

Join us for a premium day on the green:
• 18 holes of Ambrose golf
• Morning & Afternoon session
• Buffet lunch
• On-course competitions, prizes and plenty of fun

As we mark 30 years of impact, we welcome partners, sponsors and players to be part of this milestone event.

To find out more or secure your tickets, please visit https://occonnections.org/get-involved/golf-day/

23/03/2026

Join a leading People Team (Finalist in HR Team of the Year 2025) and work in a sector that values growth, inclusion and making a difference!

As People Partner, you will work as part of a collaborative and supportive People, Learning & Culture (PLC) team in a hands-on, rewarding role based in Panorama, Adelaide - supporting Bedford Group. You will provide HR advice, coordination and support across the full employee lifecycle, your key remit will be workforce planning, attraction and selection and onboarding of the right staff for the service streams. You’ll bring a tertiary qualification in Human Resource or related discipline, generalist HR experience and a sound understanding of employment legislation and Awards with confidence using a range of HRIS, recruitment and Microsoft Office systems.

If you are a confident communicator who builds trust easily, loves problem-solving and enjoys seeing people succeed, we would love to hear from you! Apply now and help create a workplace where everyone feels valued, supported and empowered to thrive.

To learn more and apply, please visit: https://www.seek.com.au/job/91065298

Applications close Tuesday 7 April 2026.