Episodes

  • Planning for a future where you may no longer be around to support your loved one with an intellectual disability is a worrying thought.

    We all know that we need to have our financial and legal affairs in order, but what about your vision and plan?

    These aspects of planning for a future can often be overlooked or downplayed.

    This podcast is a condensed version of an online presentation that is designed to make you think about the future planning needs of your person with an intellectual disability. 

    To view the presentation in its entirety please access it here - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OD1SqlUX4iA

    Additional Resources

    Circles of Support Resources: 

    Circles of Support - A manual for getting startedCircles of Support - Inclusion Melbourne 

    Vision and Planning Resources:

    The Power of Planning - Community Resource UnitWhy it Matters Succession Planning - Community Resource Unit

    Supported Decision Making Resources:

    The La Trobe Support for Decision Making Practice Framework:

    This podcast is a production of Down Syndrome Queensland.

    If you have a question, would like more information on any of our episodes, or have suggestions for future topics, send us an email - [email protected].

    For more information please visit the DSQ website, or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Down Syndrome Queensland

  • In today’s episode of the Now and the Future podcast, we are sitting down with Naomie Macquarie, MyTime Support Group Coordinator, to discuss the benefits and impact MyTime support groups can have on parents and carers of children with disabilities or other additional needs.

    MyTime is your lifeline.

    Reach out to Naomie today to find out more.

    Email: [email protected]

    Phone: 07 3356 6655

    Website: www.mytime.net.au

    This podcast is a production of Down Syndrome Queensland.

    If you have a question, would like more information on any of our episodes, or have suggestions for future topics, send us an email - [email protected].

    For more information please visit the DSQ website, or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Down Syndrome Queensland

  • Missing episodes?

    Click here to refresh the feed.

  • In the lead up to Speech pathology, Week from 25 – 31 August, in today’s episode of the Now and the Future podcast we meet speech pathologist Amanda Hartmann. 

    In this episode Amanda will take us on a journey through the ever-evolving world of speech pathology, share some fantastic real stories from the community and look at different ways to communicate your way.   

    See the below links for more information about Amanda and AAC: 

    AAC: 

    https://www.speechpathologyaustralia.org.au/Communication_Hub/Resources/Fact_Sheets/Augmentative-and-Alternative-Communication.aspx 

    https://www.health.qld.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0027/674172/aac_pro.pdf 

    Amanda Hartmann: 

    https://www.instagram.com/amandahartmann_slp_aac/?hl=en 

    https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwqbiepG71hZBz0e20hp07Q 

    https://www.facebook.com/p/Amanda-Hartmann-SLP-AAC-100057332654773/ 

    This podcast is a production of Down Syndrome Queensland.

    If you have a question, would like more information on any of our episodes, or have suggestions for future topics, send us an email - [email protected].

    For more information please visit the DSQ website, or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Down Syndrome Queensland

  • Welcome to season 11 of the Now And The Future podcast from Down Syndrome Queensland!

    This episode of the podcast focuses on health and how we can live healthier lives.

    This podcast is a production of Down Syndrome Queensland.

    If you have a question, would like more information on any of our episodes, or have suggestions for future topics, send us an email - [email protected].

    For more information please visit the DSQ website, or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

  • This podcast episode brings together interviews with advisors from each of the three education systems in Queensland (State, Independent, and Catholic) to discuss students with intellectual disability accessing curriculum aligned with their year level curriculum, alongside their age peers, but that is adjusted to the expectations of a lower year level or to highly individualised goals.

    We delve into how teachers make decisions about who should access these individualised curriculum plans, what evidence and processes are involved, how to make decisions about what year level curriculum should be the access point for the student, and what the implications of these plans might be.

    For schools wanting tailored advice on decisions around an individual curriculum plan for their student with Down syndrome/Intellectual Disability, please register for our free ID:8 service (https://downsyndrome.powerappsportals.com/id8/) or one of our QEST services (email: [email protected]).

    DSQ’s Education Services are proudly supported by the Queensland Government.

    This podcast is a production of Down Syndrome Queensland.

    If you have a question, would like more information on any of our episodes, or have suggestions for future topics, send us an email - [email protected].

    For more information please visit the DSQ website, or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Down Syndrome Queensland

  • Through work supporting families through prenatal screening and diagnosis, we often hear stories of misinformation about life with Down syndrome and an assumption that following a diagnosis, prospective parents would choose termination.

    We also hear stories of choices not being supported or respected; and frequently, families have to stumble upon support services themselves rather than being referred to them as part of ongoing care during the remainder of their pregnancies.

    Research suggests that currently, many families may not be making fully informed choices about prenatal testing.

    We are concerned that some families may be making decisions that are based on negative community attitudes and inaccurate, outdated information about Down syndrome.

    As part of our mid-year appeal, we invite you to support Down Syndrome Queensland's efforts in providing crucial prenatal screening support.

    Your donation helps us continue our mission of ensuring families have access to accurate information and the support they need during their prenatal journey.

    Donate at the Down Syndrome Queensland Fundraising Page. 

    Visit the Prenatal Screening website for all the information.

    This podcast is a production of Down Syndrome Queensland.

    If you have a question, would like more information on any of our episodes, or have suggestions for future topics, send us an email - [email protected].

    For more information please visit the DSQ website, or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Down Syndrome Queensland

  • In this episode of the Now and the Future podcast we talk about the World Down Syndrome Congress, coming to Brisbane between 9–12 July.

    This week we meet with three congress presenters; music therapist Kate Becroft-Fletcher, speech pathologist Amanda Hartmann and Associate Professor in Sleep Medicine at the University of Queensland, Dr Jas Chawla.

    Our guests will tell us about their field of expertise, give us a sneak peek into what to expect for their presentation at the World Down Syndrome Congress and tell us the importance of attending this significant event in Brisbane.

    To find out more and register for the World Down Syndrome Congress, visit the WDSC website.

    This is a once in a generation event so don’t miss out! We hope to see you there.

    This podcast is a production of Down Syndrome Queensland.

    If you have a question, would like more information on any of our episodes, or have suggestions for future topics, send us an email - [email protected].

    For more information please visit the DSQ website, or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Down Syndrome Queensland

  • This week we have a special Mother’s Day episode of the Now and the Future podcast and we are joined by the mums and grandmother of four young men with intellectual disability.

    We chat about life, love, challenges and what makes them smile.

    DSQ supports an inclusive environment for people with an intellectual disability which allows them to live their best lives.

    It is important to respect the rights of parents to choose the development path that is best for their person.

    DSQ is here to support them along the way.

    This podcast is a production of Down Syndrome Queensland.

    If you have a question, would like more information on any of our episodes, or have suggestions for future topics, send us an email - [email protected].

    For more information please visit the DSQ website, or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

  • On this episode of the Now and the Future podcast, we are joined by Breeanna Kars, the Business and Community Officer for Your Caring Way.

    Your Caring Way is an innovative and unique program that helps unpaid carers reach their employment, study, volunteer and self employment goals.

    We discuss with Breeanna what a carer is and why many carers inAustralia don’t identify as a carer, what the challenges are for carers to return to their vocational goals, how the Your Caring Way program can assist carers and how the program also supports employers.

    To get in touch with the Your Caring Way program you can visit their website - To get in touch with the Your Caring Way program you can visit their website: yourcaringway.com.au

    Call them on 1300 585 636 or email them on [email protected]

    This podcast is a production of Down Syndrome Queensland.

    If you have a question, would like more information on any of our episodes, or have suggestions for future topics, send us an email - [email protected].

    For more information please visit the DSQ website, or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Down Syndrome Queensland

  • In today’s episode we catch up with Ruth Faragher, Queensland Down Syndrome Advisory Network member and member of the World Down Syndrome Congress organising committee.

    We're also joined by Darryl Steff, the CEO of Down Syndrome Australia and father of a child with Down syndrome.

    During these conversations we hear Ruth and Darryl's stories about living with Down syndrome and what we can look forward to at the upcoming World Down Syndrome Congress in Brisbane from 9–12 July 2024.

    This podcast is a production of Down Syndrome Queensland.

    If you have a question, would like more information on any of our episodes, or have suggestions for future topics, send us an email - [email protected].

    For more information please visit the DSQ website, or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Down Syndrome Queensland

  • To recognise International Women’s Day and its theme of inspiring inclusion, we're joined by the amazing, Gillian Gehrke.

    A woman, a mother, and a strong advocate, Gillian brings a unique perspective as she champions inclusivity and understanding, all while navigating life with Mosaic Down syndrome.

    You can also find Gillian Gehrke at the upcoming World Down Syndrome Congress in Brisbane, or listen to our other episode dedicated to unpacking mosaic Down syndrome with Gillian.

    To find out about what supports are available to you, contact the following organisations:

    Down Syndrome QueenslandDown Syndrome AustraliaInternational Mosaic Down Syndrome Association

    This podcast is a production of Down Syndrome Queensland.

    If you have a question, would like more information on any of our episodes, or have suggestions for future topics, send us an email - [email protected].

    For more information please visit the DSQ website, or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Down Syndrome Queensland

  • The Together Red Choir Program is a chance to share your love of music with others, while working on social skills, communication, leadership, self-esteem, and friendships.

    This is all done through singing, song sharing, songwriting, dance/movement and so many more creative activities.

    The Music Therapy Program is fun and developmentally stimulating program for children up to 5 years old, facilitated by a registered music therapist.

    The aim of the program is to enhance early childhood development (communication, cognition, motor planning, sensory processing and integration and social development), nurture relationships between parent and child through musical play and give parents hands-on ideas for using music at home to stimulate, calm and interact with their baby or child.

    In this episode we hear from Programs Manager, Teagan Cossor for an overview of DSQ’s Choir and Music Therapy Program, and what they aim to achieve in our community.

    We will also hear from Kate Fletcher-Becroft of Music Beat who delivers the programs, and some participants on the benefits these programs, why there is such a need for them and why they choose to participate.

    Find out more about the Together Red Choir.

    For more information on DSQ’s Programs and how you can become involved, please contact Teagan Cossor on (07) 3356 6655 or email [email protected]

    This podcast is a production of Down Syndrome Queensland.

    If you have a question, would like more information on any of our episodes, or have suggestions for future topics, send us an email - [email protected].

    For more information please visit the DSQ website, or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Down Syndrome Queensland

  • On this episode of the Now and the Future Podcast we discuss housing options for people with intellectual disability.

    We will discuss making housing decisions, mainstream housing options and how the NDIS can support a person with intellectual disability to meet their housing goals.

    This podcast is an audio version of a workshop developed with funding from the Australian Government Information Linkages and Capacity Building program.

    If you wanted more information about housing or wanted to access the workbook that accompanies this workshop, please get in touch with DSQ on (07) 3356 6655 or by emailing [email protected]

    Links to the videos and resources we discussed in this podcast:

    NDIS Home and Living Supporting Evidence Form

    My housing preferences tool from Summer Foundation

    NDIS Home and Living Options

    NDIS Home Modifications

    What is Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA)

    Supported Independent Living (SIL)

    IndividualisedLiving Options (ILO)

    Further Resources:

    Down Syndrome Australia Resources

    Summer Foundation

    Livable Housing Australia

    Project Independence

    The Housing Hub

    Go Nest

    Liverty Housing

    My Supports

    This podcast is a production of Down Syndrome Queensland.

    If you have a question, would like more information on any of our episodes, or have suggestions for future topics, send us an email - [email protected].

    For more information please visit the DSQ website, or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

    Mentioned in this episode:

  • The start of the new school year or kindergarten year can be both an exciting time, but also a potentially challenging time, particularly for young people with Down syndrome and/or another intellectual disability, as they adjust to new people, places, activities, and expectations.

    This episode features the DSQ Education Team sharing advice for a positive start to the school or kindergarten year, with ten tips for teachers, followed by ten tips for families.

    Visit DSQ's Education Services page for more information about the services we provide and how we can support your school or kindergarten.

    Email DSQ for details about our upcoming professional development event; DSQ’s Inclusive Unit Planning Workshop for Educators.

    Find out more about Down Syndrome Australia’s Education Toolkit that was mentioned in the podcast.

    DSQ’s Education Services are proudly supported by the Queensland Government.

    This podcast is a production of Down Syndrome Queensland.

    If you have a question, would like more information on any of our episodes, or have suggestions for future topics, send us an email - [email protected].

    For more information please visit the DSQ website, or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

    Mentioned in this episode:

    To find out more about volunteering, or to support the work of Down Syndrome Queensland, go to downsyndrome.org.au/qld

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Down Syndrome Queensland

  • This year we celebrate Disability Action Week in Queensland from November 25th until December 3rd.

    This week culminates on International Day of People with Disability which is held on December 2nd.

    Each year in Disability Action Week the Queensland Government sets out a theme. This year’s theme is “access ignites: it’s good for business”.

    This theme encourages employers to think about ways that they can increase their profits by recruiting and retaining staff with disability, but also by making their businesses more accessible to people with disability.

    In this podcast we discuss how employing a person with an intellectual disability is good for business, and we hear from people with disability about their experiences working in their long term jobs

    .If you wanted to listen to more podcasts about employment for people with intellectual disability, the Now and the Future Podcast have several that you can explore. You can explore our back catalogue to find those.

    If you are an employer who is interested in employing a person with an intellectual disability, or if you just want to discuss how employing a person with an intellectual disability can be beneficial for your business, please get in touch with Down Syndrome Queensland to hear about how we can help you.

    This podcast is a production of Down Syndrome Queensland.

    If you have a question, would like more information on any of our episodes, or have suggestions for future topics, send us an email - [email protected].

    For more information please visit the DSQ website, or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Down Syndrome Queensland

  • In part two of our compelling men's health discussion, we continue our deep dive into the critical topic of men's mental health.

    Our esteemed guests, Darius Boyd, a former rugby league icon, and Michael Crutcher, former editor of the Courier Mail, continue to share their insights and experiences, shedding light on this crucial issue.

    In this episode, we delve even deeper into the challenges and triumphs of men's mental health.

    Darius and Michael bring forth their unique perspectives and stories, offering valuable advice and guidance on using the five pillars for mental wellness:

    Support networkEmpathyMindfulnessExcercieGratitude

    'Men's Mental Health Matters' is an ongoing dialogue that aims to inspire, empower, and create a positive change.

    Tune in and be part of this important conversation, as we explore the path to better mental health.

    This podcast is a production of Down Syndrome Queensland.

    If you have a question, would like more information on any of our episodes, or have suggestions for future topics, send us an email - [email protected].

    For more information please visit the DSQ website, or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Down Syndrome Queensland

  • In honour of International Mens Day on 19th November, we shed light on the often-overlooked aspect of men's health – their mental wellbeing. 

    In this episode, we are joined by two incredible guests, former rugby league legend, Darius Boyd, and former editor of the Courier Mail, Michael Krutcher, to share their experiences and insights into the world of men's mental health.

    During this engaging conversation, we discuss the pressure of balancing life, career and family while also dealing with the expectations and criticisms of everyone around you.

    Darius Boyd opens up about his personal journey about dealing with his own challenges while being in the public eye, and having the added expectations and criticisms of those around you.

    Michael Krutcher provides valuable advice on navigating the complexities of mental health and the importance of a support network.

    'Men's Mental Health Matters' is a powerful conversation about understanding yourself, identifying the support around you and learning to balance all of the expectations around fatherhood. Tune in and be part of the conversation that's changing lives.

    This podcast is a production of Down Syndrome Queensland.

    If you have a question, would like more information on any of our episodes, or have suggestions for future topics, send us an email - [email protected].

    For more information please visit the DSQ website, or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Down Syndrome Queensland

  • As part of National Recycling Week, our host Michael Harrison, Community Engagement and Fundraising manager, sits down with the Gold Coast's very own recycling sensation Tom Pirie and his amazing mother Carolyn, to speak about their experience in creating ‘10 Cent Tom’.

    Tom is an upcoming entrepreneur with an Intellectual Impairment who’s created a name for himself as "10-Cent Tom" with his recycling business on the Gold Coast, where he helps the environment by turning recyclables into 10 cents at a time.

    This episode highlights Tom’s journey as well as the unwavering support of his mother, Carolyn, as she shares her insights into supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities from a parent's perspective and provides guidance on the exciting journey beyond school. 

    You can follow Tom on Facebook and Instagram, or visit his website to find out how you can get involved at https://www.10centtom.com.au/

    If you need support in thinking about what’s next for you or your loved one, contact our team at Down Syndrome Queensland today!

    Phone: 07 3356 6655 Email: [email protected] 

    This podcast is a production of Down Syndrome Queensland.

    If you have a question, would like more information on any of our episodes, or have suggestions for future topics, send us an email - [email protected].

    For more information please visit the DSQ website, or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Down Syndrome Queensland

  • Caring for a person with an intellectual disability is an important and fulfilling role, but is also a role that can leave carers feeling isolated and alone.

    The struggles that a carer encounters can be quite unique to their caring role and carer burnout is an all too common experience for people who devote their lives to ensuring their loved one has a life that is perfect for them.

    The podcast today discusses the important role that carers play, some of the warning signs associated with carer burnout and looks at some of the supports that carers can access in Queensland.

    Some of the supports we discuss in the podcast are:

    Carers Queensland Supports

    Carer Gateway

    Little Dreamers

    Siblings Australia

    My Time

    ARAFMI Queensland

    This podcast is a production of Down Syndrome Queensland.

    If you have a question, would like more information on any of our episodes, or have suggestions for future topics, send us an email - [email protected].

    For more information please visit the DSQ website, or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Down Syndrome Queensland

  • The theme this year is 'hats off to teachers', celebrating Australia’s teachers for their skilled work in educating, inspiring and supporting our students. 

    This episode features a discussion amongst DSQ’s Education Team; Carly Lassig, Denise Maindonald, Elisha Byrne and Kath Bunney who share a little about themselves as teachers, and what they love about supporting educators who are teaching students with Down syndrome and other intellectual disabilities in our kindergartens and schools.

    More information about the Education Team’s services. (many of which are FREE!) can be found at the Education Services page on the Down Syndrome Queensland website, or by emailing [email protected]

    DSQ’s Education Services are proudly supported by the Queensland Government.

    This podcast is a production of Down Syndrome Queensland.

    If you have a question, would like more information on any of our episodes, or have suggestions for future topics, send us an email - [email protected].

    For more information please visit the DSQ website, or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Down Syndrome Queensland