Planning for the future

Life changes. Some changes can't be predicted but there are certain identifiable 'turning points' that can be planned for, like:

• starting school
• finishing school
• starting work
• leaving home
• retiring from the workforce.

Where do you start?

1. Focus on the person for whom you are planning. Who is this person? What are her interests? What are his gifts and talents? What does this person want from life?
2. Wherever possible, talk about it together
3. Planning for a good life means considering:
   • the qualities that make a good home
   • friendships and social connections
   • passions and interests
   • educational and learning needs
   • holiday and leisure times
   • safety and security.
4. What supports may be needed to realise this vision?

With this vision in mind, seek out specific legal and financial advice such as making a will.

Useful resources

• The booklet Planning for the Future: People with disability guides families through the issues that need to be considered when planning the ongoing care and support of a family member with a disability. Contact The Australian Government's Department of Social Services for more information.
• Find out about the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).
• My Housing Options—website and toolkit that supports people with disability to explore their housing choices, understand options available to them and plan for their future. Co-designed by Queenslanders with Disability Network together with people with disability and their supporters.