In addition to facilitating vital support services, MS Queensland works to raise awareness of key issues faced by people living with multiple sclerosis (MS) and other Progressive Neurological Diseases (PND). Our goal is to advocate, educate and provide information to government, businesses and the community.
MS Queensland and advocacy
MS Queensland advocates on behalf of Queenslanders living with MS and their carers to make sure their voices are heard and their rights are upheld. We do this by helping people with MS speak up, by lobbying and raising awareness for key policy issues, and by connecting people to local advocacy services. We also have many community ambassadors who have lobbied for change and succeeded.
MS Queensland provides the support and information you need to help you speak up and advocate for yourself and your rights. We make sure you are equipped to navigate the health and disability policies and make sure you have access to the services available to you. By giving you the knowledge you need, we can empower you to change or control your situation and exercise your rights.
Raising awareness for key policy issues
In collaboration with MS Australia – the national peak body for people living with MS in Australia – MS Queensland raises issues of importance to the Government on behalf of the MS community. We also work within our community to share campaigns and activate support for issues that affect people living with MS to live their best life. These include:
NDIS
Social factors affecting health: Employment, transport, housing and access and inclusion
Lifestyle factors: Exercise, diet, OMS, living well, and physiotherapy
Energy and heat
Research
Advocacy services
There are many independent organisations that provide advocacy services across Queensland. For information and contact details for these services please call the NeuroAssist InfoLine on 1800 177 591 or email hello@msqld.org.au.
Financial support
Rebates and Concessions
To access a list of rebates and concessions you can access to save on electricity, transport and other areas, click here.
Pro Bono Financial Support
The Pro-Bono Financial Advice Network (PFAN) is an industry wide collaboration that connects financial advisers willing to provide pro bono advice to Australians experiencing financial hardship resulting from a personal health crisis.
Diagnosis of MS or another progressive neurological disease (PND), or a sudden worsening of symptoms can be a stressful time both emotionally and financially. Advisers can help improve your understanding of financial issues and help you find peace of mind about your financial future.
This may include:
Accessing financial support
Centrelink payments
Superannuation and insurance benefits
Investment strategies for lump sum insurance payouts
Budget and cashflow advice
View the video from MS Research Australia Patron Simon McKeon AO, a former AMP Chairperson, Monash University Chancellor, philanthropist and sportsman who has kindly helped the Pro Bono Financial Advice Network to produce this video about Pro Bono Financial Advice.