Aussie Things

 Switching to solar is one of the most effective ways Australians can cut electricity bills and reduce their carbon footprint. But with solar rebates varying across states and the federal Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs) scheme in place, it can get confusing to work out how much you can actually save. That’s where using an STC Calculator becomes essential. In this guide, we’ll break down solar rebates by state, explain how STCs work, and show you how to maximise your solar savings whether you’re in Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, or even considering Solar Panel Installation in Eumundi.   What Are STCs and Why Do They Matter? STCs are part of the Federal Government’s Renewable Energy Target scheme. When you install a solar system under 100kW, you generate a set number of STCs based on your system size, location, and expected electricity output. These certificates can then be sold or traded, effectively reducing the upfront cost of your solar installation. The ...

  When it comes to accessing essential supports under the NDIS, transport often plays a big role. The NDIS travel allowance helps participants cover costs when Support Workers travel to provide services. Understanding how it works, what it covers, and the benefits it offers can make managing your plan much easier. What is the NDIS Travel Allowance? The NDIS travel allowance is a funding provision designed to cover reasonable travel expenses for Support Workers when they need to get to and from a participant’s location. This could include fuel, public transport fares, parking fees, or vehicle operating costs. The goal is to ensure participants can access support regardless of where they live. NDIS Travel Allowance for Support Workers So, how does the NDIS travel allowance for support workers actually work? Support Workers can claim reimbursement for their travel when they provide face-to-face support. For example, if a worker needs to drive to your home for personal care, com...

  Switching to solar energy is a smart, sustainable investment—but how long will it actually last? In this guide, we’ll answer a question many businesses ask: how long do commercial solar panels last? Whether you're a small operation or a large enterprise, understanding the durability and long-term value of solar technology is key to making an informed decision.   What Is the Average Lifespan of Commercial Solar Panels? Most commercial solar panels are built to last between 25 to 30 years. That doesn’t mean they stop working after three decades, but rather their energy output will gradually reduce. Panels usually deteriorate between 0.5% and 1% year. So, even after 25 years, your system may still be producing up to 75–85% of its original capacity. Many manufacturers offer performance warranties guaranteeing 80% efficiency for 25 years, giving business owners confidence in long-term performance.   Do Commercial Solar Panels Need Maintenance to Last Longer? Y...

  If you’re an NDIS participant or a carer, learning how to set life skills goals in your plan is a key step toward greater independence. Developing the right goals can empower you to live more confidently, manage daily tasks, and build toward the future you want. This tutorial will assist you in successfully navigating this process.   What Are Life Skills in the NDIS Context? Life skills refer to the everyday abilities needed to live as independently as possible. These include cooking, cleaning, budgeting, catching public transport, using technology, and even interpersonal communication. Under the NDIS, these are often supported through NDIS development life skills funding to help participants gain confidence and autonomy in daily life.   Why Are Life Skills Goals Important in Your NDIS Plan? Setting clear life skills goals ensures that your NDIS funding is aligned with your personal growth and independence. These goals help your support providers know exact...

  If you’re planning to work with the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) in Australia, obtaining your NDIS Clearance is a crucial step. Whether you're a new provider or a support worker, understanding where to apply for NDIS Clearance and how to get it is essential for compliance and delivering quality services.   What is NDIS Clearance? NDIS Clearance is a background check required for anyone who wants to provide services or support to NDIS participants. It ensures that workers and providers meet safety standards, safeguarding vulnerable people with disabilities. The process is overseen by the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission, and clearance is mandatory before you can start working.   Where to Apply for NDIS Clearance in Australia? The good news is that applying for NDIS Clearance is straightforward and can be done online through official channels. Here’s how to go about it in 2025: Visit the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission Web...

  Vincentia, located on the pristine shores of Jervis Bay, is fast becoming one of the most desirable property hotspots in regional New South Wales. As we move through 2025, the local property market is experiencing strong growth, driven by lifestyle demand, regional migration, and limited coastal supply. Whether you're an investor or a homebuyer, now is the time to pay attention to real estate Vincentia NSW.   Why the Sudden Surge in Real Estate Vincentia NSW? Over the past few years, Vincentia has transformed from a quiet holiday town into a highly sought-after residential hub. With increased work-from-home flexibility and a rising appreciation for coastal living, families and retirees alike are now actively seeking homes for sale Vincentia. The suburb's clean beaches, national parks, and family-friendly amenities have positioned it as an ideal escape from urban congestion. This has directly influenced the real estate Vincentia NSW market, where buyer interest has su...

  Apple’s iPhone launches are one of the most anticipated tech events of the year—and the buzz around the iPhone 17 release date is no exception. If you’re wondering when to expect the next big thing from Apple and how it stacks up against previous launches, we’ve got you covered. This article breaks down the trends, patterns, and what to expect from the iPhone 17.   A History of iPhone Launch Dates Apple has a strong track record when it comes to iPhone releases. Since the iPhone 5 in 2012, most models have been launched in September. Here’s a quick snapshot: Model Announcement Date Release Date iPhone 13 14 Sep 2021 24 Sep 2021 iPhone 14 7 Sep 2022 16 Sep 2022 iPhone 15 12 Sep 2023 22 Sep 2023 iPhone 16 (expected)   10 Sep 2024 (est.) 20 Sep 2024 (est.) If Apple follows its usual pattern, the iPhone ...

  Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) in Australia If you're exploring long-term housing options through the NDIS, Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) could offer the ideal solution for individuals with significant support needs. This easy-to-follow guide outlines how to apply for SDA in Australia, helping you or your loved one move towards safer and more suitable living arrangements.   What Is Specialist Disability Accommodation? Housing designed specifically for NDIS participants with extremely high support needs or significant functional restrictions is referred to as specialist disability accommodation.These homes are designed to maximise independence and safety, often including accessible features like wide doorways, reinforced walls, assistive technology, and hoists. It’s important to note that SDA refers to the physical building—not the personal support services delivered within the home. Understanding Special...

  Have you ever had to give up hot coffee or cold desserts because of sudden, sharp tooth pain? While dental issues like wisdom teeth removal often dominate the spotlight, sensitive teeth quietly cause daily discomfort for millions. If home remedies haven’t helped and your teeth still react to the smallest temperature change, it may be time to explore what your dentist can really do to help. Tooth sensitivity doesn’t have to be permanent — with the right care, lasting relief is within reach. Understanding Tooth Sensitivity: Why It Keeps Coming Back Tooth sensitivity occurs when the inner layer of the tooth — the dentine — becomes exposed. This can happen due to enamel erosion, gum recession, untreated cavities, or cracked fillings. The dentine contains tiny pathways that lead directly to the tooth’s nerve. When it’s exposed, even a light breeze or cold air can trigger discomfort. If you’ve already tried desensitising toothpaste or switched to a soft-bristled toothbrush but the sen...

Understanding your options through the NDIS can sometimes feel like navigating a maze—especially when it comes to Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA). If you're exploring housing choices for yourself or a loved one, this clear, easy-to-read guide will help answer the most common questions. From eligibility and housing categories to NDIS housing rent and local availability in Adelaide, here’s what you should know. What Is Specialist Disability Accommodation? Specialist Disability Accommodation refers to purpose-built housing designed to meet the needs of people with significant physical or functional challenges. SDA isn’t about support services—it’s about providing a well-designed living space that helps people live more comfortably, safely, and independently. These homes include features like wide entrances, assistive technology, modified bathrooms, and provisions for 24/7 support staff. All SDA dwellings are built in line with the NDIS design standards to ensure quality, a...

  Is your little one drooling nonstop or chewing on everything in sight? If you’ve been asking yourself whether this might be the start of baby teething , you’re not alone. This milestone can be exciting but also a little overwhelming—especially when your baby can’t tell you what’s wrong. Let’s explore the 10 most common signs of teething so you can feel more confident and better prepared to comfort your little one. 1. Drooling Is the First Baby Teething Clue One of the earliest teething signs is a sudden flood of drool. If your baby’s bibs are constantly soaked, chances are that new teeth are on the way! 2. Fussiness During Baby Teething Is Normal Teething can cause sore, swollen gums, leading to crankiness—especially in the evening. It’s often one of the clearest signs your baby is uncomfortable. 3. Swollen or Red Gums? Teething Might Be the Reason Take a look inside your baby’s mouth. Puffy, red gums (especially where a new tooth might erupt) are a classic symptom ...

  Thinking about getting dental implants but feeling a bit unsure about the cost? You’re not alone. Many Aussies are in the same boat—curious about how much dental implants cost and what factors affect the price. The cost of dental implants in Australia can vary significantly, depending on your needs and location, so let’s break it down together and make sense of it all. What Are Dental Implants, and Why Do People Choose Them? Before we dive into costs, let’s talk about what dental implants actually are. They’re small titanium posts that are surgically placed into your jawbone. Think of them as artificial tooth roots—they support crowns, bridges, or dentures and feel just like real teeth. People love implants because they look natural, they’re strong, and they help preserve your jawbone. Unlike dentures, they don’t slip or shift around. Once they’re in, they can last for decades with proper care. That’s why they’re considered a long-term investment in your oral health. Tooth Impla...

  Growing into adulthood can be a daunting experience for any young person, especially for those supported by an NDIS plan. From learning how to manage finances to navigating social settings, essential everyday tasks aren’t always second nature. That’s where life skills training becomes incredibly valuable — offering practical, real-world coaching that builds confidence, independence, and long-term capability. What is Life Skills Training? Life skills training is a tailored coaching method designed to help individuals learn and practise the essential tools needed to lead a more independent life. These skills go far beyond basic tasks — they are lifetime skills that support decision-making, problem-solving, communication, and personal management. Depending on a person's goals, training might include meal preparation, self-care routines, scheduling, or using public transport. For many young people accessing the NDIS, this type of support makes a noticeable difference in day-to...

  Making decisions about specialist disability accommodation (SDA) can feel a bit like preparing for wisdom teeth removal—it’s something you don’t do every day, and the process is smoother when you know what to expect. One of the most important steps in your SDA journey is selecting the right design category. This choice can make a huge difference in your comfort, safety, and independence. What Specialist Disability Accommodation Design Options Are Available? When it comes to SDA housing, not all homes are the same. The NDIS recognises that everyone’s needs are different, which is why there are five distinct SDA design categories. Whether you're looking for specialist disability accommodation in Adelaide or elsewhere in Australia, these categories help match people with the housing that best supports their daily life. Let’s break them down: Basic: These homes include minimal features and are generally for people who already have support but need stable, long-term hou...

  Just had your Wisdom Teeth Removal done and wondering what comes next? Don’t worry—you’re not alone. Recovery can feel a bit intimidating if you’re not sure what to expect. The good news? Most people heal up without much drama, especially with the right aftercare. So, what’s normal, and when should you call your dentist? Let’s walk through the recovery timeline together. Day 1: Bleeding, Swelling, and Rest The first 24 hours are all about letting your body start the healing process. Some bleeding and swelling are completely normal. You’ll be biting down on gauze to control the bleeding and keeping your head elevated to reduce puffiness. Take it easy—this is the perfect time to catch up on a series or just nap. Days 2–3: Swelling Peaks, Pain Management Begins This is usually the most uncomfortable part of recovery. Swelling tends to peak around the second or third day. Stick to soft foods like mashed potatoes, yoghurt, and soup. Ice packs and any prescribed pain relief meds will ...

  Creating a positive, empowering experience for participants in NDIS Short Term Accommodation (STA) begins with skilled and well-prepared support staff. One of the key tools that helps build that foundation is the NDIS Worker Orientation Module. This free online resource helps workers understand their responsibilities and teaches them how to uphold participant rights, —particularly the right to choice and control. Here’s how this important module supports best practice in STA settings and why it's vital for anyone working in the disability support sector.   What Is the NDIS Worker Orientation Module? If you’re new to the sector, you may be wondering: What is the  NDIS Worker Orientation Module ? It’s a self-paced online course created by the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission. Designed for both new and current workers, the module introduces key concepts like respect, safety, dignity, and rights for people with disability. The NDIS orientation module also in...