General News
25 March, 2026
Day-to-day without barriers
A FAR North Queensland peer network is helping people with disabilities build confidence, share experiences and advocate for better support in the community.
Sarina Patti-Charles, a volunteer co-convener of the Far North Queensland Peer Support Group run by Queenslanders with Disability Network Ltd (QDN), said the initiative had given her new opportunities and confidence.
“I went down in 2024 to learn to be an emerging leader and from there I’ve gained my confidence,” she said.
QDN’s emerging leaders program supports people with disabilities in developing leadership skills and influencing change in their communities.
Each year, up to 25 people with disabilities complete the program, building their capacity to contribute at the individual, community and systems levels.
Ms Patti-Charles said the program also helped participants connect with others and open doors to new opportunities.
“It gives us opportunities that normally we wouldn’t have,” she said.
The support group meets online on the first Wednesday of each month from 4pm to 5.30pm via Zoom, bringing together people with disabilities across the region.
Ms Patti-Charles said the online format helped ensure people could take part regardless of mobility or location.
“The reason why we do it on Zoom is so that people can make it, you know, if they’re in wheelchairs,” she said.
Group convenors host discussions, invite guest speakers and create a space for members to share experiences and raise concerns affecting their lives.
“It’s encouraging, because everyone is so accepting,” Ms Patti-Charles said.
The sessions often include guest speakers covering issues relevant to the disability community, ranging from government policy to health and community services. Members also use the network to raise concerns and seek guidance.
“Most of our members at the present moment are struggling with Centrelink and NDIS and housing,” Ms Patti-Charles said.
Support and advocacy can then be coordinated through QDN’s peer support team, known as the Power of Peers team.
For more details call 1300 363 783 or email peersupport@qdn.org.au.
