• Who we are
• Our Aim
• Our History
• Our Vision & Mission

Who are we 

Penrith Disabilities Resource Centre Inc. is a regional organisation of and for people with a diverse range of disabilities living in the Penrith and surrounding local government areas.

We are local residents who experience barriers to accessing our environment but our disability is not the focus of our lives.

"We are a part of society"

Penrith Disabilities Resource Centre Inc. is a regional community organisation. We provide information and referral and advocacy to members of the community who require assistance in making links to the best service or agency of their need.

We have experienced Information Officers, many of whom have a disability, who can offer assistance in locating service options.

We have a computer data base in office or right here on the web site. PDRC also hold in our office a comprehensive brochure selection to assist you. We also have a wonderful shop front office that is fully accessible.

Our Aim

To develop services and carry out activities that will change the stereotypes and restrictions imposed on us.

We aim to do this through:

• educating
• advocating
• supporting
• resourcing
• informing, and
• empowering people and organisations committed to our vision.

We work together to:

• Provide a regional Disabilities Information, Referral and Advocacy Service.
• Take action on issues that affect our lives...
• Support individuals with a disability to solve problems.
• Raise community awareness.
• Address the lack of access in Penrith and the surrounding areas.
• Encourage skill development and participation.
• Support, informally at the Centre or over the phone.
• Host a web site that includes an access guide for the Nepean Area.
• Internet data base of services, organisations and helpful contacts.

Our History

Penrith Disabilities Resource Centre Inc. commenced operation in 1988 in a little office located at the rear of the Emu Plains branch library. In May 1996 we moved to an accessible shop front on the ground floor of The Community Connection.

In the early stages, an advisory body of people with physical disabilities was established to provide direction to the staff regarding local issues that required action. In 1997 this advisory body became an official subcommittee of PDRC.

This subcommittee, known as the Penrith Disabilities Action Forum (PDAF), gives people with disabilities the support they require to act as their own spokesperson, and to raise issues and concerns with the community, that directly affect them.

The Disability Information and Referral Service has grown from strength to strength. In 1999 more than 1000 inquiries were responded to and in 2007 over 6000. A comprehensive training program has been designed and implemented to empower people with disabilities to maintain and provide this service.

In March 1995, recurrent funding was received from the Western Sydney Area Assistance Scheme (WSAAS) to employ a Disability Resource Worker and an Administration Support Worker, and to cover general administration cost. Program funding was also received to enable full participation by people with disabilities.

Our Vision & Mission

Our Vision

Is to have a society which recognizes and respects the rights, contribution, diversity, and potential of people with disabilities and is totally accessible to everyone To develop services and carry out activities that will change the stereotypes and restrictions imposed on us.

Our Mission

Is to provide services and carry out activities which will empower people with disabilities based on equality. We aim to do this through: · educating · advocating · supporting · resourcing · informing and empowering people and organisations committed to our vision.