Communication Access Network (CAN)

The Communication Access Network leads, supports and co-ordinates local and statewide initiatives to ensure people with complex communication needs can communicate effectively and participate in their own communities.

People with complex communication needs either cannot speak or have speech that is difficult to understand. They rely on multiple ways of communicating. Some people may also have difficulty understanding spoken language. Complex communication needs may be associated with a disability such as cerebral palsy, autism, stroke or motor neurone disease. 1 in 500 people across the state of Victoria are estimated to have complex communication needs (Perry, Reilly, Bloomberg & Johnson 2002).

A demographic survey of people who have a disability and complex communication needs in Victoria, Australia (PDF 999 KB).

The Communication Access Network aims to build community awareness and support access.  We partner with a wide range of groups and individuals. Information, advice, resources and services are provided to:

• Adults with complex communication needs
• Local services, councils, shops, businesses  
• Anyone who supports people with complex communication needs

The Victorian Department of Human Services funds the Communication Access Network, which  consists of the Communication Resource Centre in Melbourne and 11 Regional Communication Services based at 18 sites across the state, including community health centres and disability organizations.

For more information or to find your Regional Communication Service please contact the Communication Resource Centre:

Phone: 03 9843 2000
Toll free: 1800 888 824
Email: crc@scopevic.org.au

Communication Access Network Projects

See the links below for examples of projects undertaken in areas such as accessible information, education, local government, advocacy, the Arts, essential services, health, leadership, leisure, retail, and disability services.

• Libraries for All (PDF 2.8 MB) - Supporting people with communication difficulties to make use of public libraries.
• Talking Taxis (PDF 1.47 MB) - Improving communication between taxi drivers and their passengers.
• Communicating with the Community (PDF 2.97 MB) - Assisting retailers and services to use communication strategies to support positive and successful interaction.
• Leisure Centres (PDF 578 KB) - Improving the accessibility of leisure centres across Victoria.
• Listening & Communicating with Everyone (PDF 1.5 MB) - Effective strategies that staff can use to enhance communication with their customers.
• Out of the Box (PDF 611 KB) - Enhancing leadership skills for people with communication difficulties through effective use of technology.
• The Integrated Communications Strategy (PDF 628 KB) - Providing support to adults with communication difficulties in Southern Loddon Mallee.
• Talking Visuals (PDF 1.47 MB) - Using the latest technology to train and support parents, support workers, teachers, and other people online.