Information Session
March 22nd 2026
As parents, especially as we grow older, one of our greatest concerns is often :
Who will look out for my child when I no longer can?
For over 41 years, Citizen Advocacy in Sunbury has quietly supported families across the City of Hume and the Macedon Ranges by building trusted, one-to-one relationships between people with disability and carefully chosen, independent Citizen Advocates.
A Citizen Advocate is not a paid worker or service provider. They are a thoughtful, committed member of the community who freely offers friendship, guidance, and long-term support. Their role is to stand alongside your child, safeguard their rights and well-being, and help ensure they are treated with respect and fairness — particularly in times of change or uncertainty.
Many parents tell us that knowing someone independent is genuinely looking out for their son or daughter brings enormous peace of mind.
We warmly invite you to attend an information session to learn more about how the program works, how advocates are chosen and supported, and how this relationship can provide an added layer of security for your child’s future.
If you would like more information, please feel free to call me on 0408 178 614 or email [email protected]. I would be very happy to speak with you personally.
Regards,
David Abela
Co-ordinator
Everyday People Making a Difference
These are stories of everyday citizens, like you. They’re making a positive and meaningful difference in the lives of vulnerable people in our community.
The citizen advocate is a vital role that is freely given and powerfully independent. They are a friend, a supporter and a passionate ally to the individual they advocate for.
Our community needs more people such as these.
What is Citizen Advocacy?
We are a community based program which aims to recognise, promote and defend the rights and interests of people with an intellectual disability.
We do this by embracing and promoting the well established Citizen Advocacy model.
With this as our guide, we find and support caring, responsible everyday citizens who are prepared to act voluntarily to make a positive difference in the life of a person with an intellectual disability (protégé), who may be lonely, face difficult challenges, or be in a risky situation.
Citizen Advocates
You or someone you know might make a great citizen advocate.
- Are you able to make a personal commitment to stand beside a person?
- Would you ensure that a person’s interests are understood and effectively responded to?
- Can you look at issues and situations from another person’s view?
- Will you take action when action is needed?
Then you’d make a wonderful
citizen advocate!
Needing a Citizen Advocate?
You, or someone you know might be in need of a citizen advocate.
- You can do many things, but sometimes need the help of others?
- You’re not always sure what to do in some situations?
- You’re not always be able to do some things for yourself?
- You might have special needs?
Then you might make a wonderful protégé in
a citizen advocacy relationship.
Who are Citizen Advocates?
Citizen advocates come from all walks of life, are of all ages, and each brings with them a very individual range of life experiences and expertise.
Most citizen advocates have had no significant involvement with people with a disability before becoming an advocate and many have found that their long-term commitment to a person with a disability can be a powerful force in that person’s life.
What Can I Do to Help?
Citizen Advocacy is only made possible through the wonderful efforts of a generous community and loving people.
There are many things you can do to help support your local Citizen Advocacy program, and to make a real and positive difference in the lives of vulnerable people.
Have a Question?
Please fill in the form below and one of our staff members will be in touch with you.
We Are Funded by DSS and Supported by Others
