Young girl given access to life-saving equipment with help of her LAC

For 11-year-old Emma Ralph, support from her NDIS local area coordinator (LAC) Julie Bergmanis has had a huge impact on her health and wellbeing. A time in her life once defined by hardship has now become a journey towards freedom and security.

In 2022, Emma suffered a cardiac arrest and was diagnosed with Catecholaminergic Polymorphic Ventricular Tachycardia (CPVT), a genetic disorder that can lead to life-threatening heart irregularities called arrythmias.

Emma’s condition restricts her from doing certain tasks, and outdoor activities such as going to the beach or pool, can be risky. Caring for Emma also represents a significant time investment for her mother, Sheree, who believes that greater access to medical equipment could alleviate much of the stress involved in making sure Emma is safe.

Julie’s role as Emma’s LAC began in February 2024, and since then, she has worked tirelessly to acquire and install a heart defibrillator outside her home for emergencies.

“It’s unfair that people like Emma are unable to access lifesaving items or afford the high cost of owning one,” said Julie.

While Emma is a participant on the NDIS, certain health-related supports are instead arranged through mainstream and community services. So Julie began exploring local initiatives to find the vital equipment Emma needed. She found a collaboration between a charity, Heart of the Nation, and organisations in the Macarthur region that install Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in the community.

Julie recognised it as the perfect opportunity to improve Emma’s quality of life. Her discovery also represents the crucial role that LACs play in identifying and navigating mainstream health supports for their participants.

“Before Julie, it was really hard for Emma, as the people before her never took her heart condition in mind when doing things for her,” said Sheree.

After liaising with Heart of the Nation for many months, Julie’s efforts proved successful, and an AED was set up in January 2025 in Emma’s housing community. This is a big step forward in her healthcare journey. Her home now feels safe, just as it should.

This recent development has been a great result not only for Emma. The defibrillator has also helped another child in foster care next door, and will help others in the area with similar health needs, now and in the future.

Despite these achievements, Julie knows that her work as Emma’s LAC is far from over. Their frequent meetings help Emma understand that, in addition to her close family and friends, there are many supports out there aiming to keep her safe and healthy.

“Emma always appreciates all the work that Julie does for us,” said Sheree.

With these health supports now in place, Emma can focus on other goals, such as her high school studies or dedicating her time to arts and crafts.

“Emma knows if she needs help, she has all the support from her teachers, myself, and Julie,” Sheree said.

Through her role as an LAC, Julie hopes she can continue being an important part of Emma’s life, helping her achieve her goals and allowing her to experience life to the fullest.

Learn about SSI’s range of disability services on our website. You can contact your local area coordination team at:

Phone: 1800 960 975

Email: ssilac@ndis.gov.au