Breaking Barriers, Building Futures: How ADEC’s Advocacy Transformed One Family’s Journey
A Family’s Path to Independence
When Abduelhadi Halali and his wife Mona arrived from Sudan with their four children, including 13-year-old Mazin, who has ASD Level 3 and an intellectual developmental disorder, they faced the immense challenge of rebuilding life in Australia. On a Global Special Humanitarian Visa, the family was ineligible for Centrelink or social housing during their first year, creating severe financial hardship.
The ADEC Difference: Advocacy with Heart
Referred by the refugee health team at IPC Health, Abduelhadi connected with ADEC’s advocacy program — finding not only guidance, but genuine care. Our advocate immediately provided crisis support through food and material aid, financial assistance referrals, and carer support connections.
Beyond immediate relief, the family was educated on navigating disability services, schooling, job applications, and rights in Australia. “The benefits did not stop there,” said Abduelhadi. “I learned how to understand the process and gained confidence.”
Navigating the NDIS: From Barriers to Breakthroughs
Through months of advocacy and coordination with health professionals, schools, and the NDIA, Mazin secured his first NDIS plan, which enabled him to access therapies and equipment. Our advocate ensured the family understood the plan and connected them to culturally appropriate providers.
Building Stability and Confidence
As eligibility expanded, ADEC helped the family to apply for Carer’s Payment and successfully advocated for a four-bedroom home to meet Mazin’s needs. What began as crisis support became a foundation for stability, independence, and belonging.
Empowering Futures
“Support from your organisation helped us overcome language barriers and learn how to apply for services,” Abduelhadi reflected.
His family’s journey reflects ADEC’s mission—to empower culturally and linguistically diverse communities to live with dignity, connection, and opportunity.
Every story like Abduelhadi’s reminds us why we advocate: because inclusion and equity change lives, one family at a time.
Contact ADEC today if you need any assistance : 📱 (03) 9480 7000 📧 info@adec.org.au 🌐 www.adec.org.au