A virtual reality (VR) hub is creating a new and inclusive world for school leavers with disability.

The Disability Trust has officially opened this new facility in North Wollongong, NSW, which is now home to the Illawarra’ s first VR sensory room for people with a disability. It gives users with a disability a full virtual sensory experience without the need to purchase physical and traditional sensory room equipment.

The experience has so far been well received by The Trust’s participants. “There is also scope to look further and collaborate in the academic space on the effectiveness of the VR experience to that of a physical space,” Club Trust Illawarra manager, Gerald Farrugia said.

The centre is also home to a number of school leaver programs, including Club Trust Day Options, School Leaver Employment Supports, as well as numerous social and community programs operated by The Disability Trust.

According to Disability Employment Services senior manager Diane Dimovski, the centre is helping to boost the confidence and capacity of young people with different abilities with the School Leaver Employment Support program particularly focusing on those who aspire to find paid work in open employment.

The purchase of the VR sensory room hardware was made possible thanks to a $10,000 grant through Round Four of the Stronger Communities Program.

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