Connected Voices

FNQ Connect

Navigating life with disability, in Far North Queensland. Created by community-led initiative 'FNQ Connect' in conjunction with James Cook University in Cairns. Hosted by Raven Cook.

Episodes

  1. Oct 12

    The Migration Debate and how it directly impacts the Disability Sector in FNQ

    What happens when Australia’s migration debate collides with the reality of disability care, aged care, and regional workforce shortages? Director of The Cairns Institute Stewart Lockie says the answer is bigger than politics - and ignoring it could leave families, services, and rural communities under serious strain. He explains why the headlines about migration and housing miss the deeper issue: Australia’s labour market is already tight, care work has exploded, and huge parts of the sector rely on overseas workers. If migration is cut without a long-term plan, the fallout won’t just hit cities - it will be felt in the NDIS, in aged care, and in the everyday support people with disability depend on. Raven and Stuart break down: Why blaming migration for housing pressures is a misleading oversimplificationHow disability care and aged care have grown by 110% in a decadeWhy 40% of nurses and a huge share of care workers come from overseasWhat happens when low unemployment meets rising demand for essential careWhy regional Australia is especially vulnerable to workforce shortages and population lossWhether you're keen to learn more about the debate on migration, what's in store next for The Cairns Institute, or why Stewart never takes his health for granted, we encourage you to give episode no. 3 a listen!

  2. Sep 25

    Navigating Air Travel Through Lived Experience of Disability

    Podcast host Raven Cook describes his recent flight to Adelaide and subsequent experience navigating accessible public transport in another city. He recommends everyone with lived experience of disability should leave their home city at least once if they have the opportunity, to experience accessibility from other places.

  3. Aug 31

    What is FNQ Connect? Introducing Australia's first disability-focused collective impact initiative

    Connected Voices is a podcast hosted by Cannes local Raven Cook, focusing on real stories, real conversations, and real connections. The podcast explores life, disability, health, community, and the importance of connection across Far North Queensland and beyond. Takeaways Real people, connection Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Connected Voices00:02 Exploring Life and Disability

  • 3 Episodes

About

Navigating life with disability, in Far North Queensland. Created by community-led initiative 'FNQ Connect' in conjunction with James Cook University in Cairns. Hosted by Raven Cook.

Information

  • Creator
    FNQ Connect
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    3
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 FNQ Connect
  • Show Website
    Connected Voices