Closure of MCM Compass Clubhouse Acquired Brain Injury program

Following the significant impacts of COVID-19 restrictions and the release of the July 2020 NDIS pricing changes for group-based programs, Melbourne City Mission (MCM) has made the difficult decision to close its Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) program, Compass Clubhouse.

MCM appreciate this is sad news for the participants who have been part of this wonderful group-based program for many years.

2020 has been disruptive and challenging year for all NDIS service providers, and those we support, including Compass participants who rely on the physical and social interaction the program offers.

The COVID-19 restrictions left MCM with no choice but to shift Compass to a virtual format and, of Compass’s 44 participants, less than half have chosen to continue participating via this mode since lock-downs were introduced in Victoria in March 2020.

In late June this year, the NDIS released the new price guide and pricing for group-based supports have been significantly reduced affecting ongoing financial sustainability.

As Melbourne re-emerges from COVID-19 restrictions, MCM has been looking at how Compass could recover and continue to operate within the new limitations of NDIS group-based pricing reductions. After exploring a range of options, we are unable to redesign Compass to fit within the new group-based pricing structure in a way that is both sustainable and will retain the essence of what Compass is intended to achieve.

Compass was established 15-years ago as a social support program for people living with an ABI – the primary focus being on regaining confidence and building social connections with people living with an ABI.   

MCM understands this is sad news for both the dedicated staff and the participants. We know that the Compass community, and the connections it has facilitated for participants, has meant so much to everyone who has been involved over the years.

MCM will support participants to find and transition to alternative supports or programs. Compass’s last day will be Thursday 24 December.