This week on the show Simon and Andrew have a chat about the recent changes to NDIS funding and the role this scheme plays in the life of those receiving support.

Our feature interview for this episode is with the ever positive Melanie Hawkes, the WA Director for Physical Disability Australia and disability advocate recognised for her creativity, leadership and commitment to strong inclusive communities. She joined to discuss her role in the DPO (Disability Peoples Organisation), how they support members and how you can join the community. If you're interested in becoming a member or learning more you can click the link here to visit their website. 

Melanie gives anecdotes from her experience living with a physical disability, using a power chair and problems with accessibility while traveling to different cities. A true powerhouse, she was in the top 2 votes in the Discovery Awards in 2024 for innovation for inventing a stick that served as a sort of multi tool to point, click and assist in daily tasks. You can read her blog on the experience here. Melanie plans to take time away from work soon to start on her memoir detailing the joys of dating and finding true love.

We hope you enjoy listening to this insightful, honest chat. 

 

 

 

This week on the show Simon and Andrew have a chat about the recent changes to NDIS funding and the role this scheme plays in the life of those receiving support.
Our feature interview for this episode is with the ever positive Melanie Hawkes, the WA Director for Physical Disability Australia and disability advocate recognised for her creativity, leadership and commitment to strong inclusive communities. She joined to discuss her role in the DPO (Disability Peoples Organisation), how they support members and how you can join the community. If you're interested in becoming a member or learning more you can click the link&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pda.org.au/">here</a> to visit their website.&nbsp;
Melanie gives anecdotes from her experience living with a physical disability, using a power chair and problems with accessibility while traveling to different cities. A true powerhouse, she was in the top 2 votes in the Discovery Awards in 2024 for innovation for inventing a stick that served as a sort of multi tool to point, click and assist in daily tasks. You can read her blog on the experience <a href="https://www.pda.org.au/2025/11/04/the-stick-that-changed-my-life/">here</a>. Melanie plans to take time away from work soon to start on her memoir detailing the joys of dating and finding true love.
We hope you enjoy listening to this insightful, honest chat.&nbsp;
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In Plain Sight, hosted by Simon Chong and produced by Andrew Williams, is a program where we highlight the incredible stories of people who are making a positive impact in the community and disability sector. Giving a voice to dedicated disability advocates demonstrating advocacy in all its different forms, shining a light on those who might otherwise be hidden ‘in plain sight'.

Get in touch with the program team via: inplainsight@visionaustralia.org. Simon and Andrew would love to hear your feedback, thoughts and ideas.

In Plain Sight, hosted by Simon Chong and produced by Andrew Williams, is a program where we highlight the incredible stories of people who are making a positive impact in the community and disability sector. Giving a voice to dedicated disability advocates demonstrating advocacy in all its different forms, shining a light on those who might otherwise be hidden &lsquo;in plain sight'.
Get in touch with the program team via:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:inplainsight@visionaustralia.org">inplainsight@visionaustralia.org</a>. Simon and Andrew would love to hear your feedback, thoughts and ideas.

In Plain Sight

In Plain Sight by Vision Australia Radio

Physical Disability Australia with Melanie Hawkes

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/fa7924ac-d4fd-4bff-b1b4-ac7f006dda87/clips/1cafd236-b541-4ce6-ad85-b4480021234f/transcript