A Step Toward Smooth Travel

Today, I took a significant step toward making my future work travel more manageable: I applied for the Qantas Carer Concession Card. This card is intended to provide discounted airfares for individuals with disabilities who require a carer to travel with them. It enables the companion to fly at a reduced fare, enhancing the accessibility and affordability of travel.

The Application Process

Applying for the card involved several steps:

1. Completing the Application Form – The form required personal details, medical information, and a declaration confirming my eligibility.

2. Medical Certification – A healthcare professional had to verify that I meet the criteria for requiring a carer while traveling.

3. Submitting Documents – To finalize the application, I had to provide supporting documents, including medical records and identification.

4. Processing & Approval – Once the form is submitted, I had to wait for approval before I could start booking flights with the concession applied.

What This Means for My Travel

This card will be a game-changer for my work-related travel in 2025, particularly as I prepare for my trip to New York. It provides peace of mind, knowing I can have a carer accompany me when needed, ensuring a smoother journey, especially with long-haul flights and airport transitions.

As I continue planning my international commitments, this approval will remove a significant barrier. It will allow me to focus on my work while having the necessary support. Now, I just need to finalize my travel details and gear up for an exciting year ahead!

Journal Entry: The Sunflower Program – A Step Toward Better Accessibility

Today, I've been thinking about the Sunflower Program and what it means for me as a disabled passenger, both nationally and internationally. The program uses a discreet Sunflower lanyard or symbol to indicate that the wearer has a hidden disability and may need extra support, patience, or understanding when traveling.

Internationally, the program holds even greater value. Different countries have varying levels of disability awareness, and explaining my situation—especially in another language—can be exhausting and frustrating. With the Sunflower symbol recognised in airports, transport hubs, and even some businesses globally, it creates a universal sign of understanding. This means I may receive quicker assistance, access to priority lanes, or simply more kindness and patience from staff who recognise what the symbol represents.

But beyond the practical benefits, the Sunflower Program represents something deeper: recognition, inclusion, and dignity.

It acknowledges that disabilities aren't always visible and that people like me shouldn't have to fight for understanding at every step of our journey. It's a small yet powerful tool that gives me confidence to travel more freely, knowing that support is available if I need it.

I hope to see this initiative expand even further, encouraging more businesses, public transport services, and international organisations to adopt it. At the end of the day, accessibility is not just about physical adjustments—it's about fostering an environment of awareness, compassion, and inclusivity.

Journal Entry: Obtaining the Multi Purpose Taxi Program Card

Today, I finally took the step to apply for the Multi Purpose Taxi Program (MPTP) Card, a service designed to assist people with disabilities or medical conditions in accessing affordable transport. This card provides a subsidy on taxi fares, covering 50% (or in some cases, 100%) of the cost, making travel more accessible for those who face mobility challenges.

What It Means for People Who Have One

For those who qualify, the MPTP Card is more than just a discount; it’s a gateway to independence. It allows individuals to attend medical appointments, go shopping, visit family and friends, or even just enjoy a social outing—things that many take for granted. Without this support, transport costs could be a significant barrier, limiting a person’s ability to participate fully in life.

What This Card Means to Me

For me, having the MPTP Card represents freedom and security. With my medical conditions and physical limitations, using public transport is not always practical—or even possible—especially on days when I’m feeling unwell or fatigued. This card will allow me to travel more safely, comfortably, and affordably, without the constant stress of how I’ll get from point A to point B.

This means I can attend my many specialist appointments without worrying about excessive costs. It also means I can travel more spontaneously, rather than meticulously planning every trip around accessibility and cost. Ultimately, it gives me greater control over my mobility and allows me to focus on my health and well-being rather than being restricted by transportation barriers.

Limitations: Only Available in Victoria

One downside is that the MPTP is only available within Victoria, Australia. It does not extend interstate or overseas. This means that when I travel outside Victoria, I won’t have the same level of transport assistance. I’ll need to plan ahead, look into alternative transport options, and check if any similar programs exist in other locations.

While this limitation is frustrating, I’m still grateful for the independence the MPTP will give me within Victoria. I’m hopeful that the application process will go smoothly, and I’m looking forward to the newfound freedom and peace of mind this card will provide.

Journal Entry: Renewing My Australian Passport

Date: November 2024

Steps in the Passport Renewal Process:

1. Checking Eligibility: I confirmed that I was eligible for the renewal process, ensuring my current passport was issued on or after 1 July 2000 and had been valid for at least two years when issued.

2. Completing the Application: I filled out the passport renewal application form online, providing necessary personal details and ensuring accuracy to avoid any delays.

3. Gathering Supporting Documents: Along with the completed form, I gathered my current passport and two recent identical passport-sized photographs that met the specified requirements.

4. Submission: I submitted my application in person at an Australia Post outlet, which acts as an agent for the Australian Passport Office.

5. Payment: The standard 10-year passport fee had increased to $412 as of January 1, 2025.

6. Processing Time: I was informed that the standard processing time is approximately six weeks, though this can vary.

7. Collection: Upon receiving notification that my passport was ready, I visited the Passport Office to collect it, presenting my identification and the collection notice.

The Significance of Holding a Passport:

Possessing a passport is more than just having a travel document; it serves as a gateway to the world. It affirms my identity and citizenship, enabling me to cross borders, experience diverse cultures, and connect with people globally. An Australian passport offers visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to numerous countries, reflecting the nation’s strong international standing.

Renewing my passport reaffirms my commitment to exploration and personal growth. It reminds me of the vast opportunities that exist beyond my country’s borders and the adventures waiting to be discovered.

As I hold this new passport, I feel a renewed sense of excitement and responsibility. It’s not merely a booklet with my photo and details; it’s a testament to my preparedness to embrace the world, learn from its myriad experiences, and contribute positively wherever I go.

Here’s to new journeys and the stories yet to be written.

Journal Entry: The Village of Supporters

It all began with a bold step: submitting my application for the Future Leaders Grant. That moment was more than just paperwork; it was the start of something bigger than me. The application required introspection, a clear vision, and the courage to dream. When I received the news that I had been awarded the grant, it was an emotional milestone—not just for me but for everyone who had encouraged me, believed in me, and walked this path alongside me. The lead-up to the grant has been filled with preparation, determination, and an overwhelming sense of gratitude. Navigating this journey has taken many hands and hearts, and the unwavering support I have received has been humbling. Whether it's logistical planning, emotional encouragement, or simply knowing that I have people who believe in me, every bit of support has played a vital role in ensuring I am ready for this incredible opportunity.

As I embark on this journey to New York, my village continues to stand by my side. The support I will receive while there—from those physically present to those cheering me on from afar—will be invaluable. The collective strength of my village will power every step I take at the UN, every conversation, every presentation, and every moment of advocacy.

But this journey doesn't end in New York. It continues well beyond as I return to share my experiences, present my learnings, and advocate for the changes I am passionate about. The post-trip presentations and discussions will be an opportunity to bring my insights back to the community, those who have supported me, and those who will continue to walk this path with me.

Journal Entry: The Young Stroke Service – Bridging the Gap for Young Survivors

Journal Entry: Volunteering with the Stroke Foundation

My involvement has included participating in community awareness campaigns, assisting with fundraising events, and supporting stroke survivors through peer support programs. These experiences have been incredibly rewarding, enabling me to witness firsthand the positive impact that dedicated support and resources can have on individuals affected by stroke.

For those interested in volunteering, the Stroke Foundation welcomes individuals from all walks of life. Volunteer opportunities range from community engagement and education to administrative support and event coordination. By volunteering, you can play a vital role in preventing strokes and supporting those affected by them.

Journal Entry: Bloom Healthcare – Empowering Individuals Through Allied Health Services

Bloom Healthcare’s commitment to excellence is evident through its extensive coverage across Australia, including South East Queensland, Tasmania, Adelaide, Sydney, Wollongong, Greater Melbourne, Townsville, Perth, and soon-to-be Newcastle and the ACT. This widespread presence ensures that individuals in various regions have access to high-quality allied health services.

Their team of skilled professionals is committed to delivering assessments and interventions tailored to individual needs, with the goal of enhancing the lives of those with disabilities through high-quality and inclusive community therapy and healthcare.