oc connections: where every person's journey matters

Tailored support for each unique individual

Welcome to OC Connections, where we believe in empowering individuals with disabilities to thrive, achieve their goals, and lead fulfilling lives. 

As a leading organisation in the disability support sector, we are dedicated to providing exceptional services, fostering inclusive communities, and promoting equal opportunities for all.

Whether it is finding a homeliving well at homeengaging in work, enjoying hobbies, socialising with friends, or getting the most out of your NDIS plan, we provide the level of support needed for participants to achieve their goals; big or small!

What's new at OC?

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Our Comprehensive Disability Support Services

Specialist and short-term disability accommodation,  and professional support within the home for independent living.

Educational, recreational and community enagement activities to build confidence, independence and life-skills.

Employment services and support to unleash your potential, learn new skills, and engage in meaningful work.

Support Coordination services to help you get the most out of your NDIS funding and connect with the supports you need.

life-changing disability programs and services

At OC Connections, we offer a wide range of tailored programs and services designed to meet the unique needs and aspirations of individuals with disabilities.

From education and recreational activities to skill development and independent living support, we provide a holistic approach that fosters self-confidence, independence, and lifelong learning.

a community of acceptance and inclusion | OC Connections

a community of acceptance and inclusion

At OC Connections, we are passionate about creating inclusive communities where everyone feels valued and respected. 

Our team of dedicated professionals work hand-in-hand with individuals, families, and the broader community to raise awareness, challenge stereotypes, and promote social inclusion. 

We strive to create a world where everyone can participate fully, breaking down barriers and embracing diversity.

your partner on the journey

Choosing OC Connections means choosing a partner that is committed to your success and well-being.

Our person-centred approach ensures that every individual we support receives the highest quality of care and support tailored to their unique needs and goals.

We are passionate about building lasting relationships based on trust, empathy, and open communication.

female day support participant painting with day. support worker
A person in a wheelchair with a support worker standing beside him. They are picking yellow daisies form a daisy bush.

Join the OC Connections Family

Explore our website to learn more about our comprehensive range of services, hear inspiring stories of personal triumphs, and get involved in our vibrant community.

Together, we can create a more inclusive society and empower individuals with disabilities to reach their full potential.

Welcome to OC Connections – where every person’s journey matters.

get in touch with us

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Frequently Asked Questions

About OC Connections

OC Connections is a well-established organisation dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities for more than 70 years. Situated in Melbourne, it provides a wide array of innovative and personalised support services designed to promote independence, champion inclusivity, and enhance the overall welfare of its clients. Its steadfast commitment to delivering thorough and empathetic care has positioned it as a reliable source for individuals and families striving to improve the quality of life for people with disabilities.

OC Connections is deeply rooted in the fundamental principles of Choice, Opportunity, Respect, and Equality. These core values are reflected in every aspect of our work, whether we support individuals in exercising their autonomy, advocate for their rights, or cultivate an environment that embraces and celebrates diversity in all its forms. By upholding these values, we can create a more inclusive and equitable society for all.

Our vision and goal is to create a significant, positive impact in the lives of individuals with disabilities and our community.

We provide various disability support services customised to meet each person’s needs, abilities, and interests. This includes:

  • Our Housing Support service is designed to make a tangible difference in your life. We assist with finding and maintaining suitable accommodation, including supported independent living options.
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  • Our Employment Support service is not just about finding a job; it’s about building a career. We offer services to help individuals find and retain meaningful employment, including job training, resume building, and ongoing support in the workplace.
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  • Education Support: Programs that provide educational opportunities and support, from skill-building workshops to formal education pathways.
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  • Recreation and Leisure: Activities and programs that promote social interaction, physical activity, and personal interests, helping individuals to lead a balanced and enjoyable life.
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  • Daily Living Support: Assistance with daily tasks and personal care to help individuals live independently and confidently.
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  • Health and Wellbeing Programs: These programs offer holistic support for physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing, ensuring a comprehensive approach to health.
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Our vision and goal is to create a significant, positive impact in the lives of individuals with disabilities and our community.

We approach disability support holistically, acknowledging that it extends beyond physical assistance. Our focus is on empowering individuals to lead independent lives while ensuring their inclusion in all aspects of society. By addressing their needs comprehensively, we aim to enhance their overall well-being. This approach is at the core of our strategic plan.

Our Strategic Plan focuses on Leadership, Innovation, and Co-Creation, and it is brought to life by four pillars: developing our workforce, delivering growth, leading sustainably, and leveraging business insights for greater participant outcomes.

You can download and read our Strategic Plan for 2022 – 2025 from our website.

If you need support or care options for a family member or want to collaborate with us as a community partner, OC Connections is here. Contact us to learn more about our services and how you can join our mission to empower lives and inspire possibilities.

OC Connections has been a pillar of support for individuals with disabilities in the southeastern region of Melbourne for over seven decades. Since its establishment in 1950, its services have expanded to encompass a comprehensive range of support, including supported employment, residential care, social enterprise initiatives, and recreational programs. OC Connections caters to over 400 individuals with disabilities, providing essential services and opportunities for personal and professional development.

NDIS Provider Information

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is a pioneering Australian government initiative that provides financial assistance and essential services to individuals with lasting and significant disabilities. The primary goal of the NDIS is to empower participants to pursue their goals, improve their overall quality of life, and participate actively in their communities.

Suppose you are under 65 years old and have a permanent and significant disability that affects your ability to participate in daily activities. In that case, you may be eligible for assistance through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). The NDIS eligibility criteria are carefully defined by the NDIS and are used to assess whether an individual qualifies for support.

The NDIS Practice Standards set the quality benchmarks for NDIS providers. They include core modules like governance, operational management, and supplementary modules for specific support. Providers must demonstrate adherence to these standards through regular audits.

An NDIS provider plays a crucial role in the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) by offering diverse supports and services to participants. These dedicated individuals or organisations are committed to enhancing the lives of people with disabilities by providing essential services tailored to their specific needs. To ensure quality and safety, NDIS providers must adhere to rigorous standards set by the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission. This ensures that the support and services offered are of the highest quality and delivered with the utmost care and professionalism.

  • NDIS providers offer a variety of services, including:
  • Personal care and daily living assistance
  • Therapeutic supports such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy
  • Support coordination and plan management
  • Employment support and job training
    Community participation and social activities
    Housing and accommodation services
    Assistive technology and equipment provision

When selecting an NDIS provider, several factors should be considered. These include the provider’s experience, the variety of services, reputation, and capacity to meet your needs. Reviewing feedback from others, seeking recommendations, and arranging meetings with potential providers to discuss your requirements can all be valuable steps in the selection process.

Plan and Funding Management

The funding provided by the NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) is allocated based on the individual’s NDIS plan, which outlines the specific support and services the individual requires to address their disability-related needs. The allocated funding can be managed in various ways, including by the NDIA (National Disability Insurance Agency), a plant manager, or self-management.

  • Agency-managed: The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) is responsible for managing your funding and making payments directly to service providers on your behalf.
  • Plan-managed: A registered plan manager is crucial in managing funds under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). They oversee the financial aspects of your plan and handle the payment of service providers on your behalf. This includes processing invoices and ensuring that providers receive timely and accurate payments, allowing you to focus on your support and services without worrying about the financial transactions.
  • Self-managed: As an individual, you are responsible for managing your funds, which includes paying providers directly for goods and services. Furthermore, you keep detailed spending records to stay organised and informed about your financial activities.

Support coordination is key in effectively empowering you to understand and execute your NDIS plan. By working closely with a support coordinator, you can proactively connect with service providers, explore diverse service options, and secure the essential supports that best suit your needs, helping you progress towards your objectives.

The Australian government is committed to providing comprehensive support to individuals with disabilities. This includes offering financial assistance through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) to help cover the costs of necessary support and services. Additionally, individuals can access quality healthcare services to address their specific needs. The government also offers employment services to assist individuals with disabilities in finding suitable job opportunities, promoting their participation in the workforce. Moreover, educational support programs are in place to ensure that individuals with disabilities have access to inclusive and tailored educational opportunities, empowering them to lead independent lives.

staying connected

OC Connections Limited (trading as OC Connections) is a registered NDIS provider under section 73E of the National Disability Insurance Scheme Act 2013 (NDIS Act). In response to our obligation under this registration, OCC is committed to delivering supports in conjunction with the NDIS (Provider Registration and Practice Standards) rules.

The National Disability Insurance Scheme offers a new way of supporting people with a permanent and significant disability. You may be eligible for the scheme if you are under 65 and your disability affects your ability to take part in everyday activities.

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