Speak Out April 2018

Support from National Staff is only a call, email or a Facebook post away

Nichola Harris Senior Advisor Professional Practice

Speech Pathology National office staff are available to provide support and advice to members around a range of areas. We look forward to hearing from you! See below where staff members work and how you can contact them via email or Facebook. All contact details are available on the SPA website. Meredith Prain Professional Support Advisor Meredith develops resources and processes to facilitate professional support for members. This includes managing the Association’s mentoring program and maintaining the supervision register. She responds to member queries regarding supervision, mentoring, peer support and other professional support options. As well as being responsible for providing advice for members working in private practice. Erin also provides advice to members working in NDIS. Erin can answer questions related to the day-to- day operations of this scheme including registration, payments, service agreements and quality and safeguarding. Cathy Olsson National Advisor Disability Cathy is responsible for providing advice and informing and contributing to the Association’s understanding of and engagement with the disability sector, including the National Disability Insurance Agency. Cathy has a focus on supporting the Association around strategic and advocacy issues, including responding to submissions and enquiries, and represents the Association in liaison with the NDIA and at other forums, including Allied Health Professions Australia. She also provides specific member supports around areas of clinical focus for people with disabilities, such as AAC and assistive technology, mealtime supports, behaviours of concern and communication supports. Professional Practice and the NDIS Erin West NDIS/Practice and Clinical Support Advisor

Nichola is responsible for all matters related to professional practice. Her role involves overseeing practice support provided to members, by National Office staff and external providers, and Nichola organises the professional practice seminars. Nichola also represents the Association on a number of committees and reference groups. Contact Nichola if you have questions related to professional practice including service delivery frameworks, funding programs and professional responsibilities. WorkPlacePLUS SPA has engaged the services of WorkPlacePLUS. They provide free, initial advice to members about HR issues including information about contracts, awards and pay. Contact Anna Pannuzzo on 0419 533 434. Ethics

Trish Johnson Senior Advisor, Ethics and Professional Issues

Trish provides advice and support to members and the general public regarding the ethical and professional conduct of speech pathologists. Contact Trish with questions about support with clinical decision-making and understanding and managing ethical concerns in your professional practice. Advocacy

Mark Smith Manager, Policy and Advocacy

Mark is responsible for the identification and management of key policy, advocacy and representational opportunities for the Association. Any issues relating to policy can be directed to Mark unless it relates specifically to the portfolio of one of the above SPA staff members.

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April 2018 www.speechpathologyaustralia.org.au

Speak Out