- 1300 LIFETEC / 1300 543 383
- mail@lifetec.org.au
Menu
There are 1.2 million Australians with communication disability. Speech pathologists like Jessica Moll, Michelle Swinburn, Michelle Yee, Peta Booth, Samuel Boey and Sandra Stewart, from LifeTec Australia, work with people to provide them with the systems and supports to communicate.
“In Australia today, communication disability is largely invisible. Unseen and out-of-sight.” Michelle said
“Australians with communication disability cannot maximise future educational, health and social outcomes, without the intervention of a speech pathologist.”
“Communicating with confidence is vital to enable everyone to participate fully in the social, educational, economic and sporting aspects of community life.”
Only 38 per cent of Australians with communication disability are participating in the workforce compared with 80 per cent of people without communication disability.
People with communication disability are also less likely to have a non-school qualification (42 per cent), than those without communication disability (61 per cent).
This is why during Speech Pathology Week, from 25-31 August, LifeTec’s speech pathologist are highlighting the week’s theme: Communicating with Confidence.
“Communication is a basic human right,” added Michelle.
“Communication, by definition, involves at least two people. It is important that everyone understands that communication is more than speech.”
“Australians with communication difficulties communicate with others using a variety of means, including word-based or picture-based communication displays, signs and gestures, speech generating devices and spelling.”
“Technology is playing a growing and vital role in keeping Australians with communication difficulties engaged with their family, friends and those in the community.”
Assistive technology, such as electronic communication and speech generating devices, voice amplification and computer access aids (including eye-gaze mouse control and head tracking devices) allow people with communication difficulties to communicate with those around them. Learn more about augmentative and alternative communication services.
Speech pathologists study, diagnose and treat communication disability, including difficulties with speech, language, reading and writing, stuttering and voice. They work with Australians who have communication disability that may:
You can learn more about the communication services provided by LifeTec at www.lifetec.org.au For information about Speech Pathology Week visit www.speechpathologyaustralia.org.au/week
26th August 2019
Media contact: Wol Thiik on 1300 543 383
Photography note: Michelle would be happy to be photographed
Speech Pathology Australia is the national peak body representing more than 9,500 speech pathologists. The Association supports and regulates the ethical, clinical and professional standards of its members, as well as lobbying and advocating for access to services that benefit people with communication and swallowing difficulties.
Share This Page:
Not sure what funding is available to you? Have questions on the type of services we can provide? Start your journey with us by sending us an enquiry today!
Brisbane Office:
Mon-Fri: 8.30am- 4.30pm
Sat/Sun: Closed
Townsville Office:
Mon-Fri: 8.30am- 4.30pm
Sat/Sun: Closed
