Overview of the ACE DisAbility Network
- Was established in 2003 to provide advice, support, training and to promote disability awareness and networking on disability in the statewide Adult Community Education (ACE) sector.
- Mainstream ACE Providers (over 350 across Victoria) are funded by the Adult, Community and Further Education Board to support adult learners, including those with disabilities, to undertake education and training in a friendly environment in their local community. People accessing mainstream ACE programs tend to have lower, less specialised disability support requirements.
- ACE Network providers offer education and training funded by the ACFE Board as part of their broader suite of services to clients with higher levels of disability. (See Services & Support)
Network Activities and Research
Our Activities
- Free workshops to ACE providers on inclusion, disability awareness and a variety of other related topics.
- Telephone help line for ACE providers.
- Networking with a range of other networks within ACE and across government and non-government areas.
- A quarterly newsletter with handy tips, articles & information.
- Conferences and discussions on disability & education.
- Resource information and tools to support inclusion in ACE.
- Promotion and support of the development of partnerships that improve services to people with disabilities in ACE.
- Advice, support and information to ACE providers on site if needed.
- Projects that improve inclusion and service provision to people with disabilities in ACE.
- A website that provides a focal point for information dissemination and news on issues and topics related to disability in ACE.
- Liaison with TAFE and general education, employment and government agencies to improve information and knowledge sharing on disability education issues in ACE.
Network Research Summary
- The Network conducted state-wide research into the status of service delivery to people with disabilities in 2004.
- Download the Learning and Participation for People with disabilities in the ACE Sector report (136Kb PDF file)
- The Network undertook the Disability Education Partnerships Project (DEPP) report in 2004 & 2005 on the ACE sector. Download the DEPP report (310Kb PDF file)
- In 2005 and 2006 the Network undertook the "Inclusive Strategies in ACE project". This project has a range of strategies and initiatives to support ACE providers in relation to disability and inclusion in ACE.
- The Network has produced a resource list and offers free access to some software and classroom materials and tools on a variety of topics and formats.
- The Network can assist ACE providers to identify or access equipment or other resources available via our library or other libraries.
