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Read more about our standards and principles

Link to -Service Delivery Practice Standards

The Practice Standards set expectations for all Guide Dogs NSW/ACT staff who deliver services for Clients, their families and supports.

Link to -Client Experience Vision and Principles.

Guide Dogs NSW/ACT empowers people with low vision or blindness to live life their way. Together, we create freedom, independence and choice.

Link to -My Service Standards

My Service Standards gives you information about what to expect from us, and what we expect from you.

Link to -Using Guide Dogs NSW/ACT Services.

This policy lets people know if they are eligible to become a Guide Dogs NSW/ACT (GDN) Client and requirements for using services and leaving services.

Overview of Guide Dogs NSW/ACT Client Services.

At Guide Dogs NSW/ACT, our Client Services aim to assist people with low vision or blindness to live the life they choose, regardless of their level of vision. We do this by offering a range of vision rehabilitation services designed for individuals to build confidence and independence.

To ensure we are delivering high quality services that meet the needs of Clients, our staff are required to deliver services in alignment with our Service Delivery Practice Standards and our Client Experience Vision and Principles. These standards set the expectations for all Guide Dogs NSW/ACT staff.

Clients, their families and supports can be confident that service delivery is of a high quality that is safe, effective and promotes a positive Client experience. Additionally, our My Service Standards document outlines your rights and responsibilities when receiving our services.

Frequently Asked Questions.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Guide Dogs NSW/ACT.
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Who can access Guide Dogs NSW/ACT services? Do I have to be legally blind to be eligible for support?

Guide Dogs NSW/ACT services are available to adults and children with low vision or blindness, regardless of your level of vision. You don’t need to be legally blind to receive support.

Our services are open to anyone living in NSW or the ACT who has difficulty functioning due to low vision or blindness. There is no minimum vision level, such as legal blindness (<6/60), and while a vision report helps us understand your needs, having one is not essential. If you’re located outside NSW or ACT, you can access our national service, SeeWay.

If you’re experiencing changes in vision that affect your daily life, you may be eligible for our services. Please get in touch with us to . For more information on eligibility, see the Service eligibility section of Using Guide Dogs NSW/ACT Services. 

What do we mean by “Client”?

At Guide Dogs NSW/ACT, we use the term Client to refer to a person who is receiving our services. It reflects the respectful, person-centred partnership we have with everyone we work with.

In some situations, the definition of a Client may extend to significant others involved in the person’s support. For a child, their family or carer normally makes decisions about services. We encourage children to develop their independence and gradually take on responsibility for decisions about the services they receive. This could start as early as 14 years, depending on the child’s capacity.

If an adult does not independently make their own informed decisions, we work with them and their advocate to help them make informed choices about the services they receive.

 

Can I enquire about support for a patient or loved one experiencing low vision or blindness? 

Yes. Family members, carers, health professionals or support coordinators can make a referral on behalf of someone with low vision or blindness. Simply complete our  form, and our team will contact you to discuss their goals and next steps.

How much do Guide Dogs services cost?

Many Guide Dogs NSW/ACT services are provided at no cost to Clients, thanks to community donations and government funding. Some services may also be funded through programs such as the NDIS or My Aged Care. Our team can help you understand what funding options apply to you when you make an enquiry.

 

Are blindness and low vision services available in my area?

Guide Dogs NSW/ACT provides services across all of New South Wales and the ACT including Newcastle, Illawarra, North Coast and Albury, with many programs available both in person and online. We’ll connect you with your nearest specialist or provide remote support wherever possible.

 

How can I start accessing Guide Dogs NSW/ACT services?

You can make an enquiry or referral for yourself or someone you support through our . Once submitted, a member of our team will contact you to discuss your goals and connect you with the right services for your needs.

Find more services.