More children with complex communication needs will have the chance to find their voices.
This is thanks to a donation from the Morning Sunshine Foundation, that will expand the Variety Motor Mouth Camp in Western Australia.
Part of a two-year funding commitment, the contribution will double the capacity of the WA program with the addition of a second annual camp and establish a new camp in Queensland for the first time.
The Variety Motor Mouth Camp empowers children who have limited speech and rely on an electronic communication device/talker to better express themselves.
Over three days, families receive one-on-one support from speech pathologists and occupational therapists. Each camp provides workshops tailored for young augmentative and alternative communication users, respite and AAC tips for siblings who often act as young carers, and practical training for parents and carers, to build the family’s confidence using their AAC device.
Variety Children’s Charity Western Australia CEO, Chris Chatterton said in recent years, for every one family offered a place at camp, they had to turn another two families away.
“Thanks to the Morning Sunshine Foundation, we’ll be able to introduce a second annual Western Australian camp in April 2026, so even more families can access the support they need,” he said. “This funding also enables us to establish the Variety Motor Mouth Camp in Queensland, launching in November 2025 – expanding the program’s reach and impact across the country.”
Applications are now open to all West Australians for the October Motor Mouth camp, held at Point Walter Campsite, Bicton. The special three-day family camp, with all expenses covered, is designed to build AAC skills in a fun, safe and supportive environment.
The camp will be held from October 3-5, 2025.
Applications are being accepted until June 1, 2025 for participant families and volunteers.