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Launching Our First Research Plan

Able Australia’s is thrilled to announce the launch of our first research plan created by our Centre of Excellence – Deafblind team. People with deafblindness, their families, service providers and advocates took part in developing this three year plan. We look forward to working with you on research to improve [...]

Jonathon’s new found love of cooking

Meet Jonathon! Jonathon loves cooking. He recently made pancakes from scratch on his own for the first time. He was so proud of his delicious creation and so was Michael, his housemate, who thanked him for the pancakes. “Jonathan was so chuffed he came out immediately and told me! Huge [...]

Ability to Create Exhibition in Tasmania

Able Australia’s South Tassie clients and staff recently supported and attended the Ability to Create event in Hobart. This event held from 27 to 29 July is an all-ability feast for the senses which occupies the first floor of the Hobart Town Hall. Aaron, George, Craig, Danny, Belinda, Eric, Steve [...]

Come along to our Seniors Expo

Come along to our Seniors Expo in Ipswich on October 18! The Seniors Expo is an initiative of Able Australia that aims to provide opportunities for local seniors to participate in group activities, information sharing and connect with the community in the region. The expo will include a range of [...]

Able attended the 18th Deafblind International World Conference in Canada

Our CEO Lynette McKeown and Meredith Prain (she/her) PhD, National Head of Centre of Excellence – Deafblind are attending the 18th Deafblind International World Conference in Ottawa, Canada! Deafblind International World Conference is a comprehensive 4-day educational program and pre event Board and Network meetings. This year’s theme is Global [...]

Supported Independent Living NDIS
Retention Challenge

We are excited to have collaborated with RMIT University’s Workforce Innovation and Development Institute and Yooralla in research to gain an understanding on the retention of new disability support workers. This applied research project investigated the experience of 50 Disability Support Workers who had worked at Able Australia and Yooralla [...]

Visit us at the Ipswich Fresh Futures Market

Visit us at the Ipswich Fresh Futures Market on 6 September! This event dedicated to showcasing opportunities for people living with a disability. Our Able Australia Queensland team will have a stall at the event where you can ask us any questions you may have, and have the chance to [...]

Karen reaching her goals

Meet Karen! About 12 years ago, Karen suffered a severe stroke that paralysed the left side of her body and affected her brain functionality including sight and speech. Karen was told by doctors that she would never walk again. With the support of Able Australia staff, Karen has defeated the [...]

Making dreams come true for Jonathon, Stewart, Ron, Francis and Colin

On a beautiful sunny winter’s morning, Jonathon, Stewart, Ron, Francis and Colin made the journey to Richmond’s training ground at the Swinburne Centre, also known as Punt Road Oval. Jonathon, Stewart, Ron, Francis and Colin were very excited to meet Richmond players, Trent Cotchin and Noah Balta in person and [...]

Day on the Bay

After a delay of four years due to Covid, we recently held our annual Day On The Bay (previously known as Able On The Bay) on June 22 2023. Held in collaboration with Deafblind Victoria (DBV), the event was attended by 80 people who are deafblind and their supports. Able [...]

Peter-Reilly
New Chair of the Able Australia Board

Changes to Board of Directors We would like to announce that Peter Reilly OAM has recently stepped down from his position as Chair of the Able Australia Board of Directors, and thank him for his service. Peter has served Able Australia on the Board, as both Chair and Treasurer, over [...]

Sensory exhibition makes science accessible for blind and low-vision audiences

The Monash Sensory Science Exhibition – Autoimmunity is a free sensory exhibition curated specifically for blind, low-vision and diverse needs audiences of all ages and science literacies. Happening on Friday June 30, participants are invited to come along and explore eight autoimmune diseases through multi-sensory, multi-modal artworks and tactile displays. [...]

Deafblind Rec Program visits the Collingwood Farm

On 27 April, participants of our Deafblind Recreation Program, along with their supports went to the Collingwood Children’s Farm! Able Australia’s Deafblind Rec Program is a 12-month program for clients who use our deafblind services and the wider deafblind community via Deafblind Victoria. We also extended the invitation to the [...]

National Volunteer Week Celebrations

National Volunteer Week is Australia’s largest annual celebration of volunteers and will be held on 15 – 21 May 2023. National Volunteer Week 2023 is a celebration of our power to drive change and ensure volunteering is inclusive of all members of the Australian community. To say thank you, we took [...]

Herbert Smith Freehills Event – Experiencing Art in a New Way

On 11 May 2023, Able Australia had the pleasure of inviting Herbert Smith Freehills staff to experience art with a new perspective at their lunch event. We had four interactive stands on offer for Herbert Smith Freehills staff to engage in. Able’s Creative Art Therapist, Helena, held a stand all [...]

Support a Local Deafblind Artist

Joe Monteleone, Able Australia client and accomplished artist created this magnificent linocut artwork of Flinders Street Station. Joe is deafblind, and has Ushers Syndrome type 1. During the day Joe experiences tunnel vision, and at night, he has no vision at all. Joe does not let that stop him from [...]

Able Clients Reaching Goals of Independence

Many of Able Australia’s clients have goals of becoming more independent. At Able, we are here to support our clients to reach their personal goals. One way that our clients are achieving this specific goal is by using community request cards. Our Able staff created these cards for our clients [...]

Cooking with Able

With the support of the Brian M. Davis Grant, our Tasmanian clients enjoyed a cultural cooking program. They explored different cultures with cooking classes including safe food handling, and learned the local customs and traditions. This video shares the recipes and experience from our Cuban cooking day! [...]

Jonathon Achieving Huge Goals

On 17 March, Able Australia client, Jonathon reached one of his biggest goals – seeing a film at the cinema. Jonathon attends our Able East Day Service in Melbourne. “Today was a very special day working with Jonathan –  it was a day that we achieved a massive goal” says [...]

Deafblind Technology Project – Come and Try Day

On March 28, we held our second ‘come and try day’ for people with deafblindness and their support networks to come and try different technologies. The event was held at our Northcote Day Service in our Tech Room. We had a broad range of high and low technology devices for [...]

St Patrick’s Day Celebration Event

On Friday March 17, Able Australia’s Day Service in Camberwell successfully hosted a record-breaking crowd at our St Patricks Day event. Clients from our Day Centres and Able supported homes were invited, along with their families and Able staff. This all-day event featured many fun activities for our clients to [...]

The National Disability Insurance Scheme, not yet adequately addressing the inequity in provision of disability services in Australia

The National Disability Insurance Scheme, not yet adequately addressing the inequity in provision of disability services in Australia One of the driving forces behind the ‘Every Australian Counts’ campaign to establish a National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) was the inequity of disability service provision, between States, Territories and regions. Approaching [...]

Julie’s Story

Meet Julie. Julie likes to keep busy throughout the week. “My typical week is interesting and full of activities” says Julie. “I go to a Mozart program on Monday and Wednesday, Hydrotherapy on Tuesday once per fortnight and Community Access with my Support Worker on Fridays”. “Rana supports me to [...]

MAIB Service Provider
Able Australia an approved Motor Accidents Insurance Board Service provider

Able Australia is proud to announce we have been selected as an approved Motor Accidents Insurance Board (MAIB) service provider. As a result, Able will now support MAIB clients with support programs. The MAIB is a Tasmanian Government Enterprise (GBE). The objective of the MAIB is to administer the funding [...]

Our New Seniors Intergen Connections Program

On 31 January, Able Australia hosted our first Intergen Connections session in Raceview. This program is all about seniors spending a couple of hours a morning each week with kindergarten kids, helping them learn and play. Research shows that this time is of huge benefit to both seniors and children. [...]

Michael Takes a Historic Train Trip in Tasmania

Michael is an Able Australia client and attends our Lifestyle Choices program in Tasmania four days a week.  Able’s Lifestyle Choices program includes day programs, outings in the community, travelling as a group to a program, events and day trips.  Michael travelled with a group to Devonport to attend Don [...]

Chief People Officer
Welcome to our new Chief People Officer

We are excited to announce the appointment of our new Chief People Officer Meagan Downie Knowles who joined our team last week. Welcome to #TeamAble Meagan. We asked Meagan a few questions as you will read her energy shines through. What drew you to work at Able? I have spent [...]

Celebrating Terry’s Birthday

Recently, some of our clients living in Able Australia supported homes came together to celebrate Able client Terry’s 71st birthday! The group gathered for a lovely meal and shared some cake. Terry loved his Carlton Polo he was gifted. Able client Phil, who once isolated himself, is now out and [...]

Launching Lasting Letters Program for Seniors

On Friday 20 January Able Australia Services, working with the Scenic Rim Regional Council, launched Lasting Letters program for seniors. Lasting Letters is a fun and free way for Able Australia and the Scenic Rim Regional Council to help reduce social isolation for those over 60 in our community. It [...]

Creative Arts Therapy Group Program is back!

Able Australia’s Creative Arts Therapy Group program is back! Come along to our group program designed to support adults with intellectual disabilities experiencing social isolation. This program includes a range of creative arts such as movement, art, dance and sound as a vehicle to explore social connectedness, build self-confidence, promote [...]

St Kilda Day Out With The Deafblind Community

Bec Swansson, Able Australia’s Deafblind Services manager, has created a 12-month Recreational Program for clients who use our deafblind services and the wider deafblind community via Deafblind Victoria. We also extended the invitation to the deaf/deafblind people who frequent Able’s Day services, as they are part of our deafblind community [...]

Paul’s New Lease On Life in Tasmania

For over 15 years we have been providing disability support services in Tasmania. We pride ourselves on delivering better days, every day with and for our clients. Paul is one of our clients in Tasmania. Before joining Able, Paul lived in a nursing home. In the nursing home, Paul was [...]

Christmas End Of Year Party For Our VIC Day Service Clients

On Wednesday 14, our Able East and North clients had their end of year party. Staff and clients had a great day filled with music, presents, a BBQ, snacks and even a visit from Santa! You may also be interested in… [...]

Adventure Cruise For Our Tasmanian Clients

On 25 November, clients of our Young Adult Program in Tasmania went on a 50 minute Cataract Gorge Adventure Cruise along the Gorge and Tamar River! This experience was possible through the Brian M Davis Grant. Clients learnt the history of Launceston’s Seaport, Kings Wharf, heritage properties and the Cataract Gorge. As part [...]

We Attended the Melbourne Disability Expo

The Able team had a booth at the Melbourne Disability Expo on the 25 and 26 November 2022. The Melbourne Disability Expo links people with a disability with hundreds of product and service providers as well as presenting a range of informative and interactive presentations delivered by industry experts.   [...]

Halloween Disco Party For Our Clients

On 28 October, we held a Halloween disco party for our clients at our Northcote day centre!   Our clients and staff gathered together in spooky costumes to celebrate Halloween. Clients and staff had a great day, enjoying art activities and morning tea!   You may also be interested in… [...]

John and Greg’s Holiday

Our clients John and Greg recently enjoyed a fun-filled holiday to Phillip Island with the support of their Able disability support workers!   They enjoyed going to Panny’s Chocolate Factory, going to the beach, shopping, feeding the animals and attending the Artic Discovery Centre at the Nobbies.   You may [...]

Able Art 2022
Able Art 2022

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Phillip Meets His Favourite Band, KISS

Meet Phillip! Able Australia client, Phillip is a huge fan of the band KISS. Our Able House Manager, Claire, ran around last minute to find tickets so that Phillip could go to the KISS concert! Claire also organised for Phillip to go to the airport to meet KISS as they landed [...]

10 Year Anniversary of Ipswich Community Aid

1 November 2022 will mark the 10 year anniversary of when Ipswich Community Aid became a part of Able Australia! The Ipswich Community Aid started in 1974 in the wake of the flooding across the region. The Aid started small by supporting the community to rebuild, and eventually grew to [...]

Celebrating Seniors Month – Seniors Expo 2022

October is Seniors Month! Seniors Month Seniors Month provides opportunities to promote positive community attitudes towards older people and ageing, facilitate community participation, and enhance community connections. To celebrate our wonderful seniors, Able Australia, in partnership with the City of Ipswich, Queensland Government and Queensland Seniors Month, hosted a Seniors [...]

Meet John!

Meet John! John lived in an Able supported home in Melbourne. John has many hobbies and activities he loves. John enjoys cooking, swimming, riding his electronic scooter around the neighbourhood, arts and crafts, playing cards and board games, puzzles on his iPad and bowling. John and his housemate also went [...]

AFL Grand Final BBQ and Game Day

On Wednesday 21 September, we held an AFL Grand Final day for our clients! We held the event at one of our Able East Day Service site. All our day service clients were invited to attend. The Able Australia team organised a BBQ lunch, drinks and games for our clients [...]

New Homes Being Built

On Friday 26 August, we were delighted to have The Hon. Colin Brooks, Victorian Minister for Disability, Ageing and Caring and The Hon. Anthony Carbines, Victorian Member for Ivanhoe visit one of our Able Australia supported homes in Heidelberg Heights. The Ministers met four of our Able clients and staff [...]

Able Comm Guide Training Days

On the 29 and 20 August 2022, we held a two-day communication guide training this week at Able Australia National Office. Trainers were Dr Meredith Prain, Heather Lawson, Bronwen Scott, Dennis Witcombe. Trainees learnt about the role of the commguide, communication strategies, methods and techniques, and how to safely and [...]

Able Game’s Day

In honour of The Commonwealth Games, we hosted a Game Day for our clients at one of our Able Australia Day Services. This included activities such as aqua aerobics, basketball tournaments, soccer matches and many other fun activities. There was also a welcome parade where everyone wore their t-shirt they [...]

Theo’s Achievements

Meet Theo! Theo is an Able Australia client who frequently attends our Day Service. Previously, Theo didn’t engage in many community activity prior to COVID-19. However, with some help from his Able support workers, Theo is now thriving in the community and engaging in daily activities of his choosing such [...]

Christmas in July for our Senior Clients!

Our Queensland team hosted a lovely Christmas in July event in Ipswich on Tuesday 26 July. With over 100 clients in attendance, it was a great way to connect after a tough few years with COVID. Our clients had a jolly good time with entertainment, festive games and a fabulous [...]

Tech Smart Seniors Expo

The Tech Smart Seniors Expo was a very successful partnership between Able Australia and STAR Community Services. The key focus of the expo was to invite seniors to get first-hand information on technology products and services available in their local area that can help maintain their independence and enhance social connections.  We [...]

Supported Independent Living
Able Australia is expanding its SIL Service offering

Able Australia is pleased to announce that 10 Supported Independent Living Services have been transitioned from Melbourne City Mission (MCM) to Able, as of 11 July 2022. As part of this, Able has welcomed approximately 40 participants and almost 100 staff into the Able Community. MCM approached Able to partner [...]

Calling out for Volunteers – support seniors, meet new people and be recognised for your commitment

Do you enjoy being out in the community and meeting new people? Are you passionate and caring? Join our events team who run local events for seniors to prevent social isolation. This includes safety seminars, expos, workshops, exercise sessions and a variety of diverse community events. Help us engage and [...]

Rebecca Volunteering Achievements

In honour of Volunteer Week (16-22 May 2022), we would love to share an inspiring story about our client, Rebecca. Rebecca is 25 years old and has been volunteering at the local Salvos store for the past 4 months. Able staff have supported Rebecca to get workplace experience and try [...]

Volunteer Week 2022 – Quotes from our Volunteers

From May 16 – 22 is National Volunteer Week. National Volunteer Week (NVW) is Australia’s largest annual celebration of volunteering, and is held from 16 – 22 May 2022. At Able, we have around 120 amazing volunteers who give up their time to support vulnerable members of the community in [...]

Vale John Finch, first CEO of Able Australia

It is with sadness that we wish to announce the passing of Mr John Finch. John Finch was the first CEO of Able Australia, formerly known as The Deafblind Association, serving from 1985 – 2002. John also served as a Committee Member of The Australian Deafblind Council from 1993 – [...]

Positive Behaviour Support Success

Clients with complex needs and multiple diagnoses often present with behaviour support needs, after putting themselves or others at risk of harm. We believe that these clients need a different approach in supporting them to live their best lives. Positive Behaviour Support is a well evidenced practice that has been [...]

Easter Morning Tea for our Senior Clients

To celebrate Easter 2022, our seniors in Queensland enjoyed a lovely morning tea. The morning tea included some great music and craft activities. To keep things fun, everyone had the opportunity to make an Easter bonnet. The seniors each got their own bonnet which they could decorate with all sorts [...]

Eddie Keir Award 2021 Recipient

Last year, Dr Meredith Prain and her Centre of Excellence – Deafblind team were awarded the inaugural Eddie Keir Award for their Deafblind Webinar Series. We weren’t able to present Meredith with her award at the time due to COVID restrictions. Fortunately, Di Keir, Eddie Keir’s widow and their granddaughter [...]

Join Our ‘Come and Try’ Deafblind Tech Day

Able Australia ishosting a ‘Come and Try’ Day at our Northcote Tech Hub! This is a great chance to try mainstream and assistive technologies accessible to people with deafblindness. You will have the chance to try lots of smart assistive technology such as Smart glasses Technology to assist in the [...]

Craig’s Impressive Woodwork Creations

Craig has been attending the Moonah Men’s Shed in Tasmania for the past 3 years. Over those 3 years, Craig has worked on lots of different projects. “I like to design my own projects and work out what materials and measurements I will need, I have used most of the [...]

A man with low vision and a woman wearing reading glasses sit at a table in a library. A book is on the table in front of them. The woman is assisting the man to read braile.
The National Disability Insurance Scheme, not yet adequately addressing the inequity in provision of disability services in Australia

  By Dr. Meredith Prain, National Head of Research and Centre of Excellence – Deafblind, Able Australia. One of the driving forces behind the ‘Every Australian Counts’ campaign to establish a National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) was the inequity of disability service provision, between States, Territories and regions. Approaching its [...]

Lynette McKeown new CEO Able Australia
Able Australia CEO appointed

Able Australia Board Chair, Peter Reilly OAM announces Lynette McKeown has been appointed CEO of Able Australia. Lynette comes into this role having held a series of executive positions within Able, most recently as Chief Operating Officer. Prior to joining Able Australia, Lynette held senior roles at Monash Health here [...]

Group Art Projects

Each year Able Australia hosts our annual art exhibition – Able Art. Able Art is one way that we celebrate and share the incredible talents and achievements of our clients. In last year’s exhibition, we had two masterpieces that were created in a group effort, which was so wonderful to [...]

Exciting Programs for our Seniors Clients in Queensland

Our seniors community in Queensland have been taking part in some fun and exciting programs recently. These programs are a great way for seniors to socialise, remain active and stay engaged with the local community. Cake Cuppa Connect is a fun program brought to our seniors from Karyn at Therapigs. [...]

Christmas Presents for Clients

For Christmas last year, our Able residential support staff wanted to make sure our clients had the best Christmas possible. 2021 was such a challenging year for our clients because there was so much change and instability. It was so nice to finish the year off on a high. Eric [...]

Welcoming Submissions for Senior Stories 2022 Book

We are excited to announce that we will be creating our third edition of Senior Stories. Seniors Stories is a compilation of stories written by our senior clients within the Queensland Community. Telling stories is one of the most powerful means we have to influence, teach and inspire. Our stories [...]

Kate MacRae
Announcement from Able Australia Board Chair

Able Australia’s Board Chair, Peter Reilly OAM announces the following [...]

Our Queensland Team End of Year Celebrations

2021 was a challenging year for all. To celebrate the triumphs and enjoy the festive season, our Able Australia team at our Jimboomba site in Queensland went Zone Bowling! Staff and volunteers were able let off some steam and enjoy gathering together with some friendly competition. Congratulations to first place [...]

Able Art Exhibition 2021

Each year, Able Australia hosts Able Art – an event that showcases the incredible art that our clients with disability create. Able Art is a weeklong event that coincides with 3 December – International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD). IDPwD aims to increase public awareness, understanding, and acceptance of [...]

Meet Ellice – Our Volunteer Who Enriches the Loves of Our Senior Clients

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Able Australia Collaboration with Swinburne University to Improve Accessibility for People with Deafblindness

Have you ever noticed how much you are using technology in your day-to-day life to make things easier? Unfortunately, access to mainstream technologies that we use everyday is not yet as available for people with deafblindness. To combat this, Able Australia have collaborated with Swinburne University to better understand the [...]

Our Queensland Team Helping Spread Christmas Joy

Every year, our Queensland team put together 100 food and toy hampers which are provided to families and individuals who are experiencing financial distress. We want to ensure that everyone has a merry Christmas, no matter their circumstances. For the last 5 years, McAuley College have assisted us with a [...]

Seniors Expo 2021

To continue the Seniors Month celebrations, we held a Seniors Expo for our senior clients in Queensland. At the expo, there were 42 exhibitors, craft activities, pet therapy, barnyard babies, the Ipswich Veteran and Vintage car club with a vehicle display, plant Q&A, an exercise demonstration, a multicultural performance by [...]

Launching Seniors Stories Book

On Monday 25 October 2021, we launched our second release of our Seniors Stories. Seniors Stories is a compilation of over 100 stories written by our senior clients within the Queensland Community. Our Queensland team held a special book launch to celebrate everyone who contributed in creating this beautiful collection [...]

Positive Behaviour Support
Positive Behaviour Support launches in Queensland

We are excited to announce we are expanding our Positive Behaviour Support service to Queensland. Our Positive Behaviour Support Practitioner Ashley has moved from Melbourne up to Queensland. We sat down with Ash to ask him a few questions about Positive Behaviour Support. How do you assist our clients? By [...]

Our Clients Explore Their Passions By Volunteering

Clients Eric and Craig love to cook and help others! So over the past few months, Able staff have been supporting Eric and Craig to attend the Gagebrook Community Centre to participate in their Fast Foodies program. The Fast Foodies program is run by volunteers who cook meals, relishes, jams [...]

Volunteers Bringing Companionship To Our Senior Residents

At Able Australia, we continue enrich the quality of life of residents of aged care homes who are socially isolated or lonely through our Community Visitors Scheme (CVS). It also helps establish links between people living in aged care homes and their local community. Trish (in the image below to [...]

A Special Surprise For Our Staff For R U OK Day

In light of R U OK Day on 9 September, Able Australia sent each of our 730 staff around Australia a special care pack. We used the care packs as an opportunity for our people leaders to check in with staff about their mental wellbeing, which is especially important during [...]

Queensland Vaccination Hub

On Tuesday the 7th of September, we opened our Lowood site as a COVID-19 vaccination hub for the second time. In collaboration with Aspen Medical, this vaccination hub brings the vaccine to our clients, staff, and community members in South East Queensland. Our Able Queensland team also arranged with those [...]

Our New Food Pantry Vehicle

We are so pleased and appreciative to acquire a new Able branded Food Services Vehicle! This vehicle represents the purchase of a program specific vehicle, for collecting grocery products from Food Bank and Second Bite Coles Supermarkets, as well as other suppliers including Woolworths and Aldi. These products are then [...]

Yarn Bombing for Deafblind Awareness 2021

In Australia, Deafblind Awareness Week was celebrated from the 21st – 27th June this year. The global initiative for Deafblind Awareness Week 2021 was yarn bombing. This is a form of street art where knitted or crocheted squares adorn an object in a public space. Why Yarn Bombing? Yarn bombing [...]

Able Clients Attend Equine Program in Tasmania

Recently in May, clients from our Lifestyle Choices and Young Adults program in Tasmania attended the Equine Program! This program was set up by Rebecca from Reclink Northern Tasmania, and is open for all members of the community to join in on the fun. Our clients had the opportunity to [...]

Able Community Project Manager wins Australian Road Safety Award!

Congratulations Jessy Byrnes and the Queensland Community Services team. Because of Jessy’s incredible work, we are proud to announce that Able, the Ipswich Police District Crime Prevention Unit and Neighbourhood Watch Australasia were successful in winning an Australian Road Safety Award for the Seniors Road Trip to Road Safety Project [...]

Become a Deafblind Communication Guide!

Deafblind Communication Guide Training Program 2021 Able Australia is looking for individuals who are fluent in Auslan and have a positive attitude and empathy to take part in a Deafblind Communication Guide training program. Deafblind Communication Guides provide direct one to one support to people who are deafblind. They assist [...]

Seniors Safety & Wellbeing Seminar

On the 15th of June 2021, Able Australia held a Seniors Safety & Wellbeing Seminar for our Queensland clients to help spread awareness of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. This day aims to raise awareness of elder abuse, which is any act which causes harm to an older person and [...]

Able Clients Unique Art

Meet Able client, Paul! Paul is an artist who lives in Tasmania and specialises in creating beautiful handmade rugs. Each one of these colourful, richly textured rugs are the product of up to 100 hours of work. Using a tool called a ‘Latch Hook’, which is similar to a crochet [...]

Events For Our Incredible Volunteers

On May 19 2021, during National Volunteers Week our team in Queensland hosted a volunteer open day. The event aimed to encourage more people to get involved in volunteering and give back to the community. The event was a great success with the Ipswich SES and Community Radio Station River [...]

Saying Goodbye to Long-Standing Donor, Marion Jennings

It is with great sadness that we say our last goodbyes to long-standing Able supporter, Miss Marion Jennings. Miss Jennings sadly passed away last year. She had been donating to Able Australia since 2001, contributing greatly to our work to support people with disability to live the life they choose. [...]

Celebrating our Volunteers – Meet Trish

National Volunteer Week (NVW) is Australia’s largest annual celebration for volunteers. From Monday 17- 23 May 2021, NVW celebrates the significant positive contribution of Australia’s volunteers. Able Australia are so grateful to all our incredible volunteers who give up their time to help vulnerable people within the community. Our volunteers are vital to [...]

Karen’s Incredible Story

Karen used to work in Marketing and Communications and was an executive member of her team. She loved her job, as it allowed her to travel the country as she chased the ultimate job. Almost 10 years ago, Karen suffered a severe stroke that paralysed the left side of her [...]

Volunteer Open Day Event

  Are you interested in giving back to the community? Become a volunteer at Able Australia and help support vulnerable people within the community in South East Queensland! We are hosting a Volunteer Open Day Event in Queensland in light of National Volunteer Week coming up soon. If you are [...]

Living Independently in Kingston

We are so excited about this wonderful article featured in the Kingsborough Chronicle about our client, Paul, and his experience getting back into the community with Able Australia supports! Paul used to live in a nursing home in Tasmania. In the nursing home, Paul was quiet and didn’t get much [...]

Disability Support Worker Spotlight – Siam

At Able Australia, we have over 600 staff and 200 volunteers who work tirelessly to provide our clients the highest quality of support and continuously seek to improve the consistency of our service delivery. We are so grateful for our amazing staff who embody our values of trust, respect, excellence [...]

Peter Reilly at Government House to receiving his Order of Australia medal
Congratulations Able Board Treasurer, Peter Reilly OAM

Able Australia’s Board Treasurer, Peter Reilly was awarded an Order of Australia as part of this year’s Australia Day Honours list and received his medal from Victoria’s Governor General The Hon. Linda Dessau AC at Government House last week. Peter’s inclusion in this year’s Australia Day Honours list recognises his [...]

In Loving Memory of Able Donor, Elizabeth

It is with immense sadness that we announce the passing of long-standing Able supporter, Miss Elizabeth Don McConnan. Elizabeth touched the lives of so many, and she will be dearly missed. Elizabeth sadly passed away on 26 August 2018. Passionate about doing her bit to support people with disability to [...]

Donors Bringing Christmas Joy to Our Clients

Even though Christmas 2020 was very different compared to previous years, we still wanted to make sure our clients had a fun festive day filled with joy and gifts! We called out to our donors last year to help us purchase Christmas presents for our clients living in Able supported [...]

Dual Sensory Impairment in the aging client

Able Australia’s Dr Meredith Prain, National Head of Research and Centre of Excellence – Deafblind together with Dr Bronwen Scott, Orientation and Mobility Specialist discuss dual sensory impairment in the aging client in Audiology Now. Deafblindness is “a unique and isolating sensory disability resulting from the combination of both hearing [...]

Animal Farm in Tasmania Giving Our Clients A New Experience

While many of us may be familiar with service dogs, a mum in Tasmania has thought outside the square to provide a different array of service animals for her son who is a wheelchair user and other clients in Able’s Tasmanian community and beyond. She started with a cow and [...]

The Deafblind Employability Project

The Deafblind Employability Project: A step in the right direction The United Nations convention on the rights of persons with disabilities Article 27. States “States Parties recognize the right of persons with disabilities to work, on an equal basis with others; this includes the right to the opportunity to gain [...]

Taking on TAFE Students in Tasmania

At Able Australia, we offer students an opportunity to learn from our experienced support workers, staff members and managers on how to provide high quality person-centred support to people with disability. We want to ensure that people with disability are heard, valued and live the life they choose with the [...]

Able Client’s New Impressive Art Creation

Meet Eric! Eric is an Able Australia client who has a real interest and flair for design. Eric’s latest creation is this amazing cardboard mock-up of a restaurant with a pool! He started his creation by firstly drawing up a number of blueprints by hand for the restaurant prior to [...]

Supporting Our Senior Clients With The Community Visitors Scheme

The Community Visitors Scheme (CVS) is a national program funded by the Australian Government. The CVS aims to enrich the quality of life of residents of aged care homes who are socially isolated or lonely, and would benefit from a friendly visitor. The CVS also helps establish links between people [...]

Our Northcote Day Centre Is Back Open!

We are excited to announce that our Northcote Day Centre is officially back open as of today (12 January)! Due to COVID-19 restrictions, we temporarily closed our state-of-the-art centre to keep our clients safe. We were able to slowly open it back up with a limited capacity. Now we are [...]

Meet Hana – Our Occupational Therapist

Meet Hana! Hana works at Able Australia as an Occupational Therapist, specialising in adaptive technology. Hana works from our new Northcote Day Centre to support our clients reach their goals with the assistance of technology that is adaptive for people with disability. We asked Hana a few questions about how [...]

Donated Craft Packs Bring Early Christmas Cheer To Our Clients

In early December 2020, we delivered 48 donated craft packs to our clients living in supported homes across Victoria. Simonne and the amazing volunteer group from NextGen Philanthropy generously made packs that included different craft materials so that our clients can get creative this festive season. This amazing volunteer group [...]

Logan City Council donation
Big thanks to Logan City Council

With the end of year fast approaching and as we begin to reflect on the year, we are extremely grateful for the many organisations who supports us. We would like to take this opportunity to thank the Logan City Council for their very generous donation of $1,000. Earlier in the [...]

Seniors Road Trip to Road Safety Project

Able Australia’s Queensland team led by Community Project Manager, Jessy Byrnes, are currently running the Seniors Road Trip to Road Safety Project. Road Safety Statistics indicate that whilst driver’s over 60 years are only 24.5% of the licenced driver’s, they are 32.6% of the drivers in fatal crashes. Able Australia [...]

Meet Victoria – Our Creative Arts Therapist

As an Art Therapist, Victoria’s role is based around working with clients, either in a group or one-on-one setting, with art materials in a therapeutically-minded way. Victoria facilitates group art therapy sessions at our new Northcote Day Centre and is curating 2020 Able Art. Whilst we haven’t been able to [...]

Northcote Day Centre Sensory Garden
A garden built from the heart

Each year Able has a number of projects which our workforce are significantly devoted to. Winner of the 2019 Debbie Prior Award Leslie Barr donated her prize money of $3,000 to the Sensory Garden at the Northcote Day Centre. With the help of Allyson (Ally) (Able Australia Disability Support Worker), [...]

Young Adults Program Participants visit TAFE!

During 2019, participants of the Young Adults program in Tasmania attended many interesting activity sessions at TasTAFE! Once session included using virtual 3D goggles! Clients chose what they would like to see through the goggles, such as an underwater scene where they could touch fish, poke at sea anemone and [...]

Get Involved in Deafblind International’s Yarn Bombing Project

Deafblind International (DbI) is inviting YOU to join them in a movement that will build deafblind awareness on a global scale!   Deafblind International are hosting a Global Yarn Bombing project for their June 2021 awareness campaign. This is an exciting and creative way to engage members of the deafblind [...]

Meet Our Able Volunteers

Meet some of our Able volunteers!   We recently asked our Queensland volunteers to share with us their Able Volunteer Story.   We are so grateful for our volunteers who give up their time to support the community. Without them, Able would not be what it is today.   Watch [...]

Winners of My Grand Hero Awards

On National Grandparents Day (25th October), we would like congratulate the winners of My Grand Hero Awards, Robert and Moira Christensen!   Our Queensland team held My Grand Hero Awards, which offered seniors an opportunity to share with us what it means to them to be a grandparent.   National [...]

Celebrating Our Grand Heroes

In celebration of Grandparents Day on the 25th of October, we held a contest for grandparents across Australia called My Grand Hero Awards. Our Queensland Community Project Manager, Jessy Byrnes, and the Able Queensland team held this contest to help put a smile on grandparent’s faces by recognising all the [...]

Northcote Day Centre for Adults with Disability
Northcote Tour

We are excited to invite you to our rescheduled virtual tour of the Northcote Day Centre for Adults with Disability. This is your opportunity to see for yourself, this beautiful, modern facility from the comfort of your home. Discover how we help clients live more independently and connect with the [...]

My Grand Hero Awards

Calling on all grandparents! Share with us a photo and let us know what it means to you to be a grandparent for a chance to win a luxury hamper!   We want to put a smile on grandparent’s faces by recognising all the Grand Heroes out there.   Nominations [...]

Its Party Time!

During this crazy COVID time, a few of our Able staff members wanted to cheer up our clients at one of our supported homes by throwing party! The theme of the party was “The great escape”, which aimed to bring some joy and excitement during strict social isolation in Victoria. [...]

Having Fun While Staying Safe

The Young Adults Program and Lifestyle Choice Program in Tasmania are not letting COVID-19 stop them from having fun and being active! Whilst abiding by the Government restrictions, our Tasmanian team and clients from both Able Lifestyle Choices and the Young Adult Program, joined the sports program organised by Reclink [...]

Isolation Activity – Able Word Jumble

We know that social isolation can be quite boring and dull for some, especially those living in Victoria. So, here’s a Able Word Jumble activity to bring some light-hearted fun to your day! Below is a list of words which have been jumbled up – your job is to un-jumble [...]

A Floral Surprise For Our Clients!

The COVID-19 pandemic has undeniably been a difficult time for us all. Our generous donor, Carmel, wanted to help put a smile on our clients face by sending them a beautiful bouquet of flowers! Carmel has been kindly supporting Able Australia since 1997, and wanted to show our clients that [...]

Authors Of Our Seniors Short Story Book Discover A Surprising Connection

To help celebrate this year’s Seniors Week (15-23 August) and our amazing senior clients, a Seniors Short Story Book was launched! A wonderful initiative of our Active Living Program for Seniors in Queensland, the Senior Stories book was published in August 2020. This features the incredible short stories and poems [...]

In Loving Memory of Patience Harris, Able Donor For Life

  In loving memory of Patience (Pat) Harris.   Pat was born in March 1928 and sadly passed away in January 2020.   Pat worked most of her life for the Post Master General (PMG) as a telecommunication officer and seemed to love working night duty. She was a great [...]

Queensland Seniors Week Celebrations

This year, we celebrated Queensland Seniors Week from 15-23 August! Queensland Seniors Week provides opportunities to promote positive community attitudes towards older people and ageing, facilitate community participation, and enhance community connections. During Seniors Week, as a part of our Active Living Program for Seniors, the Able Queensland team launched [...]

Updated Rules For Mask Wearing In Victoria

The Victorian Government has publicly clarified some of the rules and exemptions around mask wearing. Members of the deaf or hard of hearing community are allowed to take off their mask to aid communication. It’s also okay to ask other people to remove their mask to make communication easier. To watch the explanation [...]

Baking Zoom Sessions For Clients Are Back!

Due to popular demand, the baking Zoom sessions have continued for our clients in supported homes in Victoria and Tasmania! A few of our clients suggested that this time, clients and their Support Workers make slices. Each home made a different type of slice, and all seemed to agree that [...]

Remembering Mr Eddie Keir OAM

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of one of the founding members of Able Australia, Eddie Keir. Edmond Keir, known to us all as ‘Eddie’, passed away surrounded by family on 16 July 2020 after a prolonged illness. Eddie is survived by his wife Di, daughters [...]

Artistic Volunteer Creates Unique Farewell Gift For Staff Member

Soon, our Queensland National Director of Service Development, Community Services and Transport, Richard, will sadly be retiring. So to say thanks, one of our volunteers Tyler, drew a wonderful picture of Richard as a farewell present!   Tyler is one of our amazing volunteers who works in Food Pantry and [...]

Able Australia’s Scone-Making Bake-Off

    To bring a little fun to mundane life of social isolation, Able Australia hosted scone-baking Zoom sessions for our clients in supported homes, with a focus on Victoria and Tasmania! This light-hearted activity encouraged clients to get involved in various ways to bake some delicious scones. This included [...]

Roy Youth Worker
Meet Roy our team member

Meet Roy! Roy is one of our passionate staff members. Each day Roy makes a difference to the lives of many of our clients. Roy has overcome a great deal of challenges throughout his life and has an incredible outlook on life. He continues to spread optimism and hope to [...]

Personal Protective Equipment PPE Disability
Able’s drive for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

The health and safety of our clients, staff and families continues to be our number one priority. In a bid to help keep our clients, staff and families’ and safe during this time, our drive for procuring Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) has been extensive.  From gown sewing drives to collaborating [...]

A Garden Bench In Loving Memory Of ‘Billy’

  William was born on the 4th of September 1947. He spent most of his childhood with his living parents and siblings. In 2000, William moved into a Able Supported Home in Andrew Street which he shared with 3 other gentlemen. His family visited regularly and they treated the staff [...]

Meet two of our Green Thumb Clients

Karen and Jeffery are two of our wonderful clients that live at one of Able’s resident homes in Tasmania. With the help of their support workers, Karen, Jeffery and their co-residents work together to water, weed and nurture their veggie patch and fruit trees in their back garden. This year, [...]

Queensland’s Innovative Initiatives to Lift Spirits During COVID-19

Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around. – Leo Buscaglia Across Australia and the world, people are living with a [...]

Monash University Collaboration

Able Australia are currently collaborating with Monash University on a new project to provide more online connection, communication and support to people with disability and their families. The project is trialing the use of telepractice by allied health student training with Able Australia clients across Tasmania. The interdisciplinary team consists [...]

COVID-19 PPE Face Shield
Local production of Face Shields is underway for the Disability Sector

The shortage of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) has been a challenge for not only Able Australia but the disability sector has a whole. The health and safety of our clients, workers, volunteers and families is and continues to be our highest priority. As a result, our drive for PPE hasn’t [...]

PPE Surgical Face Masks
Able Australia procuring P2 masks for the Disability Sector

The health and safety of our clients, staff and families continues to be our number one priority. A sector wide shortage of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as gowns, masks, hand sanitiser and gloves continues. We have been working tirelessly over a number of weeks to secure much needed PPE. [...]

Personal Protective Equipment Face Masks
Face masks have arrived!

We have been working tirelessly behind the scenes to obtain Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for our workers to help keep them and our clients safe. We are thrilled we have finally taken stock of some PPE that staff within the disability sector can use. This shipment is for certified fae [...]

Able Australia National Volunteer Week
Our Amazing Queensland Volunteers

Able Australia is lucky to have so many volunteers in Queensland who kindly offer their time and effort to support the community’s most vulnerable groups. Our volunteers help out in many different ways in the community. A few of Able’s volunteers prepare and cook  meals for vulnerable people within the [...]

National Volunteer Week
First Day of Volunteer Week – Tyler’s Story

Happy Volunteer Week! Although Able mainly provides individualised support for people with disability, we also offer a range of other services in Queensland. Many of these services are made possible by our wonderful volunteers. In the photo above/to the right is Tyler. Tyler joined us as one of our amazing [...]

Ted Pawley, Gone But Never Forgotten

In loving memory of Edward (Ted) Pawley. Ted Pawley sadly passed away on 29th of March 2020. Ted held high respect in his family and in his community. Towards the end of WW2, at 18 years of age, Ted enlisted in the Royal Australian Airforce (RAAF) and served in Australia and Papua [...]

Workshop Series: Working with People with Deafblindness

Join Able Australia as we deliver a series of free interactive workshops on deafblindness in Mount Gambier, South Australia from Tuesday 29th – Thursday  31st October. Through attending the workshops, participants will develop a broad understanding of deafblindness, its causes and implications, and how to work confidently and safely in [...]

Able Australia Easter Chocolate
Lindt Australia Brings Easter Joy To Our Clients

Coronavirus has created an enormous impact on how we manage our day-to-day lives, including how we socialize and celebrate important occasions. However, the upside of this is that it has nurtured a feeling of giving in the community. To maintain the government-mandated distance required from one another, we have had [...]

Volunteer Army Called Upon to Sew Protective Gowns for Frontline Disability Support Workers

The lack of personal protection equipment (PPE) has been an issue across the community. As a disability service provider, supporting some of our community’s most vulnerable, we want to ensure that both our clients and workers are kept as safe as possible. We are not alone. This is true for [...]

Activities For Seniors in Jimboomba

Able Australia offers a range of programs in Queensland for seniors to help maintain good mental and physical health, social inclusion and prolong a person’s ability to remain living independently in their own home. In Jimboomba (QLD), Able Australia also focused on providing transport for those that cannot travel to [...]

Deafblind Camp 2020

Able Australia’s National Deafblind Camp ran from the 13th-15th of March 2020, and it seems to get bigger and better each year! This year marked the 20th Deafblind Camp, and was held at Phillip Island Adventure Resort. Deafblind Camp is an amazing opportunity for people in this widespread community to [...]

Verica’s Trip to Sydney

This is Verica. Verica had been looking forward to an action packed weekend in Sydney, to see one of her favourite bands the ‘Black Eyed Pea’s live, and visit Madame Tussauds Museum! In November 2020, Verica commenced her much anticipated journey from Canberra to Sydney by train. Joining Verica on [...]

Coronavirus update
COVID-19 (Coronavirus Update)

Able Australia has been closely monitoring information provided to us by both the Federal and State Government about COVID-19 (Coronavirus). We have formed an Emergency Response Team, led by Kate MacRae our CEO. This team is meeting daily to discuss our COVID-19 preparedness so that we can respond as quickly [...]

Northcote Day Centre for adults with disability
Official Opening of The New Northcote Day Centre

26 February 2020 On Wednesday the 26th of February Able Australia’s Northcote Day Centre was officially opened by Cr Susan Rennie, Mayor of the City of Darebin. We were joined by clients, donors, supporters, as well as Dr Helen Nugent, Chair of the NDIS and Ms Kat Theophanous, Member for [...]

Able wins Ipswich District Community Safety Crime Prevention Award

12 November 2019. Recently Able Australia’s Active Living Program for Seniors (ALPS) was nominated for the 2019 Ipswich District Community Safety Crime Prevention Awards. Last week, ALPS took out the winner in the Community Engagement category!  ALPS is an outreach community support program designed to connect older people with locally delivered initiatives [...]

Donation brings Grand Final dreams to life

7 October 2019. Meet Francis! Francis is a much loved client at Able Australia. He has lived and breathed the Richmond FC his whole life. Growing up, when his Tigers guernsey was washed, he would sit under it on the line waiting for it to dry. Throughout the season, Francis [...]

Able Clients Dance in Creative Community Project

26 September 2019. This month clients of Able Australia have been involved in a community theatre event. The Re-Embody Project is organised by Interweave Arts and was part of the Junction Arts Festival in Launceston this month. In preparation for the event, organisers from Interweave Arts joined Able clients at the Young [...]

Carla Anderson inducted to the 2019 Victorian Disability Award, Lifetime Achievement Honour Roll

28 August 2019. Carla Anderson, Director – Centre of Excellence Deafblind at Able Australia joins the Lifetime Achievement Honour Roll as part of the 2019 Victorian Disability Award. This award is one in a long list of accolades Carla has received over her career spanning close to 40 years. Carla [...]

Check out our video launched recently at the Deafblind International Conference

26 August 2019. See how Joe, Michael and Alisha are removing accessibility barriers with the support of Able’s deafblind services. Check out the video on the About us page. About us Everyday Able Australia provides services and support to enable people with dual sensory loss to live the life they choose. [...]

Able Australia celebrates Queensland Seniors Week 2019

20 August 2019. Able Australia hosted a Gala Luncheon and Expo in Ipswich in celebration of Queensland Seniors Week and what a tremendous success it turned out to be. With over 200 seniors attending, 37 organisations as exhibitors and the wonderful entertainment of Graham Hobson the Ipswich Civic Centre was [...]

Able Australia hosts Deafblind International World Conference

1 August 2019. From 12 – 16 August, the Gold Coast, Australia is playing host to over 400 people representing 30 different countries from across the international deafblind community – a condition that impacts almost 500,000 Australians. Over 400 people from across the international deafblind community will be descending to [...]

Vale – Bev Staughton

29 July 2019. Able Australia would like to pay our respects to the late Bev Staughton, a committed supporter of Able Australia in the 1960s. We offer our condolences to the Staughton family and thank them for their contribution to Able Australia over the years. Ex-CEO John Finch has kindly [...]

Tax Appeal
Able celebrates Deafblind Awareness Week 2019

17 June 2019. Deafblind Awareness Week will be celebrated internationally this year from 24 June – 30 June. Deafblind Awareness Week coincides with the birth date of one of the world’s most famous deafblind people – Helen Keller. Deafblindness is a unique condition in which a person has either partial [...]

Bostik pays Able an exciting visit

16 May 2019. Able Australia has received an exciting visit from Bostik Australia! After contacting Bostik to let them know about the incredible ways their Blu Tack product is used in our art therapy sessions, they wanted to come down and see it for themselves. Accompanied by stunning pieces of [...]

DB camp
Deafblind Camp another great success

4 April 2019. Able’s annual Deafblind Camp gives Deafblind people from around the country a time and place to come together in a safe environment with 24/7 support. Over the years, the camp has run in a number of venues and areas, but campers agree that as long as they [...]

Able Special Projects Coordinator discusses conference plans in Nairobi, Kenya

20 March 2019. Gary Daly is the Special Projects Coordinator at Able Australia and Secretary at Deafblind International, an organisation focused on the needs of individuals who are deafblind, their families and the professionals who provide services to deafblind people. In Nairobi, Kenya earlier this month, Gary attended the Deafblind [...]

Able runs NDIS Q&A session for Deafblind Community in Queensland

13 March 2019. On 12 March, Able Australia had the opportunity to present to some of the Queensland Deafblind community about the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). The morning session was a great success with a number of participants coming to hear Able’s Senior Support Coordinator Justin Elks speak about [...]

Happy International Women’s Day 2019

8 March 2019. The theme for International Women’s Day 2019 is Balance is Better. Able Australia would like to take this opportunity to celebrate all women, and in particular women with disabilities and those who support them. National Disability Services have published a media release sharing some great work that [...]

Able Clients Swap the City Life for a Day on the Farm

6 March 2019. The Young Adult Program runs during the week at our day centre in Invermay, Launceston. Every Friday, the team love to get out of the city and over to the outskirts of Launceston where staff member Angus has access to a farm filled with animals and luscious [...]

Red and White Smart Beetle Braille Machine
Technology Acts as a ‘Lifeline’ for those with Deafblindness

9 February 2019. Heather and Michelle are deafblind. With the support of Able Australia and Ablelink, our digital literacy hub, they have used technology to maintain their independence. ABC News have published an article on the use of technology at Ablelink, and how it has changed lives for Able Australia [...]

sharon_and_kaii_smiling
A Sudsational Idea

10 January 2019. Sharon, a client of Able Australia, shows resilience and ingenuity when faced with a significant life change. Mid last year Sharon was given the unfortunate news that her position working at the mail centre had been made redundant after 15 years of service. Disappointed, Sharon and her [...]

Able client Ross holding an iPhone in his left hand and smiling.
Mobile Phone Donation Rings Through Able Australia

5 November 2018. Ablelink is Able Australia’s e-communications program. Ablelink incorporates a drop-in centre, extensive training and state-of-the-art adaptive communication technologies to help clients develop digital literacy skills that help them remain in regular contact with family and friends. Mobile Muster, an organisation running Australia’s only government accredited mobile phone [...]

Two Able clients practising First Aid with one wrapping a bandage around the other's arm.
St John Provide Able Australia Valuable First Aid Classes

2 November 2018. Clients from the North Tasmanian Lifestyle Choices and the Young Adult Program (YAP) have successfully completed another session of First Aid. Twice each year, the clients at both programs participate in a First Aid information session run by St John Ambulance. In these sessions, there is a [...]

Hands feeling a white piece of paper cut into a crescent shape.
What is Able Art? An Introduction to Able’s Creative Art Therapy Program

18 October 2018. Creative Arts Therapy is based on the belief that art-making within a therapeutic context supports changes in a person’s inner world and helps them develop a more integrated sense of self. Able Art has been Able Australia’s creative arts therapy program for over ten years. The growing [...]

Two Able Young Adult Program clients undertaking a cooking program.
Able Clients Cooking Up A Storm in the Community

3 October 2018. Able Australia’s Young Adult Program (YAP) is a popular day service where clients aged between 18-30 can build positive relationships with each other and the community, as well as increase their independence and learn important life skills. A key part of the Young Adult Program is its [...]

Able Australia interpreter Dennis Whitcombe using tactile sign on Able client Jasper's back.
Jasper Shares Able Experience

2 October 2018. Able client Jasper writes about his experiences of being deafblind with the intention to support others and raise awareness through his lived experience. “Earlier this week we had another visit from the two lovely professionals I mentioned before, Carla Anderson, the deafblind services manager from Able Australia, [...]

Deaf Interpreter Sandra and Able Australia client Jasper using deafblind fingerspelling
Able Australia Celebrates National Week Of Deaf People Around The Country

26 September 2018. The weekend saw Able Australia represented at a number of events held as a part of National Week of Deaf People. In Melbourne Deborah, who is Deafblind, attended the Deaf Market at the school grounds of Deaf Children Australia. The market was held on Sunday 23 September [...]

Able client Michael wearing a motorbike helmet being buckled into a go-kart on his holiday.
Michael’s Holiday Goals Achieved

17 September 2018. Each year, Able clients set goals with the help of their support networks and plans are put in place to help bring these goals to life. In his planning meeting this year, Able client Michael set the goal of going on a holiday. Throughout the year, Able [...]

Sharon Barrey Grassick
In Memory Of Sharon Barrey Grassick

13 September 2018. After a very lengthy struggle with cancer, Sharon Barrey Grassick, aged 68, passed away on ­­August 25th 2018 in the Bethesda Hospice at Claremont, Western Australia, surrounded by her close friends and Rob, her much loved son. Sharon (Sha to her close friends) was widely regarded as [...]

Sharing the knowledge to ACT. Accessibility. Communication. Technology. Now is your time to act"
Able Australia to Host 17th Deafblind International World Conference in 2019!

30 August 2018. The 17th Deafblind International World Conference will be hosted by Able Australia on the Gold Coast in Queensland, Australia in August 2019. With over 500 delegates from over 35 different countries expected to attend, the conference will give attendees the opportunity to discuss issues, research and personal [...]

Able client Colin standing in front of a Ron Barassi statue wearing a Richmond Tigers jersey
Richmond Fan Kicking Goals With The Support Of Able Staff

5 August 2018. Every week, stadiums across Australia are met with roaring crowds and excited anticipation. AFL is one of Australia’s most popular sports, and it’s a long-time love of Able client Colin. For over 10 years, Colin has been a diehard Richmond Football Club fan. Club hats, memberships, shirts, [...]

Able clients at the Young Adult Program day centre at their Christmas in July event.
YAP and Lifestyle Choices Celebrate Christmas in July

10 August 2018. What do you get when you combine the Able Australia Launceston Lifestyle Choices Program and Young Adult Program (YAP)? The North Pole in North Tasmania, complete with falling snow! Okay… Maybe it wasn’t real snow – but the bubble machine did well to give that illusion during [...]

Able client Colin sitting with Able volunteer driver Leon.
Social Outing Program in Queensland Gives New Life Experience

23 July 2018. Colin was born in Lowood, Queensland 86 years ago. Lowood ‘born and bred’, Colin loves the land, says his cattle are his passion and he rarely leaves Lowood at all. This year, things started to change. Colin joined Able Australia’s social outings group in Lowood. Initially, Colin [...]

tasTAFE students sitting with Able clients using a computer at the TAFE.
YAP Share Learning Experience with TAFE Students

20 July 2018. Clients from the Young Adult Program (YAP) in Launceston and students and teachers at tasTAFE have had a great shared learning opportunity over the last eight weeks.  The Health, Aged Care & Disability department at tasTAFE offered YAP clients a free course in Information Technology (IT) that [...]

Able client Peter wearing Croatia soccer team colours
World Cup Excitement Connects Client with Local Community.

18 July 2018. Eagerly following the World Cup over the last four weeks, Peter, an Able client of Croatian descent, has shown his dedication and love for the game. Peter stayed up all night to watch his team win the semi-finals and secure a place in the final. Thrilled with [...]

Able client Deb smiling with Aboriginal Elder Judith Jackson at Able's NAIDOC week celebration
Able East Celebrates NAIDOC Week

15 July 2018. As part of NAIDOC week celebrations, Able’s East Melbourne Lifestyle Choices group Able East had the privilege of having Aboriginal Elder Aunty Jacko (Judith Jackson) visit to speak about Aboriginal culture and tell her life story. Judy is from Roma (Queensland) and is a part of the [...]

'Fathers' and 'Waffles' of the Ullysses Bike club standing with Edmund McMahon of Able Australia with a large cheque for $1650
Able Australia Youth Service Receives Donation from Ulysses Club

4 July 2018. When Able’s Queensland Youth Support Program Coordinator Edmund McMahon approached the president of the Mount Lindesay branch of the Ulysses Club and explained the needs of our clients, it was met with a very welcome and appreciated surprise. To read the full story, click here. [...]

Kate MacRae, Sandi Pontin, Carla Anderson and Peter Hitchener at the Deafblind Awareness Week fun day
Deafblind Awareness Week Fun Day

26 June 2018. June 16 saw a very successful Deafblind Awareness Week fun day at our Camberwell location in Victoria. Throughout the day, 34 deafblind clients came along, as well as more than 50 volunteers, family members, students from Melbourne Polytechnic and Able Australia staff. The morning started with speeches [...]

Able client Robert sitting inside a red and white CFA fire truck.
CFA Dream Restarted

20 June 2018. Client Robert Uren has had his dream of working at the CFA realised through the support of Able. Robert’s story began in 2014 when he met with Karen Major, Best Practice Advisor, now National Manager of Quality and Compliance, for his individual planning meeting. Robert shared with [...]

Two Able Australia staff and two Queensland Police Officers at the World Elder Abuse Awareness Day Able Australia display
Able Australia Celebrates World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

15 June 2018. On Friday 15 June, the Able Australia Active Living Program for Seniors (ALPS) team held a successful community event to celebrate the contribution of seniors in the community and recognise World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD). The ALPS team organises, promotes and attends many events in Queensland [...]

Able volunteer Daryl sitting at a table with three others at the Volunteer of the Year awards
Able Volunteer Shortlisted for Volunteer of the Year

27 May 2018. Today is the last day of National Volunteer Week. The week has been a perfect opportunity to highlight and appreciate the amazing voluntary work we have here at Able Australia. For the final day of the National Volunteer Week, we’d like to introduce one of our volunteers, [...]

Two Yarra Trams staff, Able client Cathy Staughton and another artist standing in front of a Yarra Trams tram.
Able’s Cathy Staughton Selected To Feature Art On Melbourne Tram

22 May 2018. As part of the inaugural 2018 Yarra Trams Community Partnerships program in Victoria, Able client Cathy Staughton was given the honour of having her artwork featured on one of Melbourne’s trams. Through a partnership between Yarra Trams and Arts Project Australia, Cathy is one of two artists [...]

Able client Harald and Peter Roberts in a Skyliner car
Targa Tasmania Car Visits Able Australia Launceston

18 May 2018. Harald Tanner has primarily spoken of two subjects since joining Able Australia’s Young Adult Program last year – sports cars and Doctor Who. While he has plans to build his own Tardis, the 22-year-old had the opportunity to explore his other passion further on Friday as a 2018 Targa Tasmania car visited Able Australia’s Launceston office. [...]

A group of people at the 2018 Able Australia Deafblind Camp.
2018 Deafblind Camp Update

16 April 2018. On Friday 23 March, more than 45 people with deafblindness from across the country made their way to PGL Campaspe Downs near Woodend in country Victoria for the 18th Annual Deafblind Camp. As with previous camps, this annual event provided plenty of opportunities for participants to relax, socialise and take [...]

Members of Able Australia and National Australia Bank (NAB)
Able Australia Clients Share Stories of Digital Accessibility

15 March 2018. Able Australia clients, Steve Ripley and Paola Avila, were recently invited to share their personal stories of digital accessibility with almost 200 NAB staff working in Melbourne and Sydney. Their presentations formed part of an ongoing series run by NAB designed to enhance their workforce’s awareness and [...]

Telehealth ABC Radio Hobart Interview

ABC Radio Hobart – Telehealth Interview with Able’s Bill Iverach [...]

Three men on bikes in front of an Able Australia bus
Program Helps To Build ‘Wheelie’ Positive Futures

26 February 2018. Young kids from the Beaudesert region in the Gold Coast hinterland of Queensland are learning some ‘wheelie’ good skills from a unique program which teaches them about bicycle mechanics and maintenance. To read the full article featured in The Queensland Times, click here. [...]

deaf blind services
Deafblind Awareness Week Celebration

Celebrating Deafblind Awareness Week (24 – 30 June) with an event at Ross House in Melbourne! Date: 19 June Time: 12pm – 4pm Location: Ross House Level 4, Room Hayden Raysmith 247-252 Flinders Lane Melbourne, Victoria [...]

Launching Our First Research Plan

Able Australia’s is thrilled to announce the launch of our first research plan created by our Centre of Excellence – Deafblind team. People with deafblindness, their families, service providers and advocates took part in developing this three year plan. We look forward to working with you on research to improve [...]

Jonathon’s new found love of cooking

Meet Jonathon! Jonathon loves cooking. He recently made pancakes from scratch on his own for the first time. He was so proud of his delicious creation and so was Michael, his housemate, who thanked him for the pancakes. “Jonathan was so chuffed he came out immediately and told me! Huge [...]

Ability to Create Exhibition in Tasmania

Able Australia’s South Tassie clients and staff recently supported and attended the Ability to Create event in Hobart. This event held from 27 to 29 July is an all-ability feast for the senses which occupies the first floor of the Hobart Town Hall. Aaron, George, Craig, Danny, Belinda, Eric, Steve [...]

Come along to our Seniors Expo

Come along to our Seniors Expo in Ipswich on October 18! The Seniors Expo is an initiative of Able Australia that aims to provide opportunities for local seniors to participate in group activities, information sharing and connect with the community in the region. The expo will include a range of [...]

Able attended the 18th Deafblind International World Conference in Canada

Our CEO Lynette McKeown and Meredith Prain (she/her) PhD, National Head of Centre of Excellence – Deafblind are attending the 18th Deafblind International World Conference in Ottawa, Canada! Deafblind International World Conference is a comprehensive 4-day educational program and pre event Board and Network meetings. This year’s theme is Global [...]

Supported Independent Living NDIS
Retention Challenge

We are excited to have collaborated with RMIT University’s Workforce Innovation and Development Institute and Yooralla in research to gain an understanding on the retention of new disability support workers. This applied research project investigated the experience of 50 Disability Support Workers who had worked at Able Australia and Yooralla [...]

Visit us at the Ipswich Fresh Futures Market

Visit us at the Ipswich Fresh Futures Market on 6 September! This event dedicated to showcasing opportunities for people living with a disability. Our Able Australia Queensland team will have a stall at the event where you can ask us any questions you may have, and have the chance to [...]

Karen reaching her goals

Meet Karen! About 12 years ago, Karen suffered a severe stroke that paralysed the left side of her body and affected her brain functionality including sight and speech. Karen was told by doctors that she would never walk again. With the support of Able Australia staff, Karen has defeated the [...]

Making dreams come true for Jonathon, Stewart, Ron, Francis and Colin

On a beautiful sunny winter’s morning, Jonathon, Stewart, Ron, Francis and Colin made the journey to Richmond’s training ground at the Swinburne Centre, also known as Punt Road Oval. Jonathon, Stewart, Ron, Francis and Colin were very excited to meet Richmond players, Trent Cotchin and Noah Balta in person and [...]

Day on the Bay

After a delay of four years due to Covid, we recently held our annual Day On The Bay (previously known as Able On The Bay) on June 22 2023. Held in collaboration with Deafblind Victoria (DBV), the event was attended by 80 people who are deafblind and their supports. Able [...]

Peter-Reilly
New Chair of the Able Australia Board

Changes to Board of Directors We would like to announce that Peter Reilly OAM has recently stepped down from his position as Chair of the Able Australia Board of Directors, and thank him for his service. Peter has served Able Australia on the Board, as both Chair and Treasurer, over [...]

Sensory exhibition makes science accessible for blind and low-vision audiences

The Monash Sensory Science Exhibition – Autoimmunity is a free sensory exhibition curated specifically for blind, low-vision and diverse needs audiences of all ages and science literacies. Happening on Friday June 30, participants are invited to come along and explore eight autoimmune diseases through multi-sensory, multi-modal artworks and tactile displays. [...]

Deafblind Rec Program visits the Collingwood Farm

On 27 April, participants of our Deafblind Recreation Program, along with their supports went to the Collingwood Children’s Farm! Able Australia’s Deafblind Rec Program is a 12-month program for clients who use our deafblind services and the wider deafblind community via Deafblind Victoria. We also extended the invitation to the [...]

National Volunteer Week Celebrations

National Volunteer Week is Australia’s largest annual celebration of volunteers and will be held on 15 – 21 May 2023. National Volunteer Week 2023 is a celebration of our power to drive change and ensure volunteering is inclusive of all members of the Australian community. To say thank you, we took [...]

Herbert Smith Freehills Event – Experiencing Art in a New Way

On 11 May 2023, Able Australia had the pleasure of inviting Herbert Smith Freehills staff to experience art with a new perspective at their lunch event. We had four interactive stands on offer for Herbert Smith Freehills staff to engage in. Able’s Creative Art Therapist, Helena, held a stand all [...]

Support a Local Deafblind Artist

Joe Monteleone, Able Australia client and accomplished artist created this magnificent linocut artwork of Flinders Street Station. Joe is deafblind, and has Ushers Syndrome type 1. During the day Joe experiences tunnel vision, and at night, he has no vision at all. Joe does not let that stop him from [...]

Able Clients Reaching Goals of Independence

Many of Able Australia’s clients have goals of becoming more independent. At Able, we are here to support our clients to reach their personal goals. One way that our clients are achieving this specific goal is by using community request cards. Our Able staff created these cards for our clients [...]

Cooking with Able

With the support of the Brian M. Davis Grant, our Tasmanian clients enjoyed a cultural cooking program. They explored different cultures with cooking classes including safe food handling, and learned the local customs and traditions. This video shares the recipes and experience from our Cuban cooking day! [...]

Jonathon Achieving Huge Goals

On 17 March, Able Australia client, Jonathon reached one of his biggest goals – seeing a film at the cinema. Jonathon attends our Able East Day Service in Melbourne. “Today was a very special day working with Jonathan –  it was a day that we achieved a massive goal” says [...]

Deafblind Technology Project – Come and Try Day

On March 28, we held our second ‘come and try day’ for people with deafblindness and their support networks to come and try different technologies. The event was held at our Northcote Day Service in our Tech Room. We had a broad range of high and low technology devices for [...]

St Patrick’s Day Celebration Event

On Friday March 17, Able Australia’s Day Service in Camberwell successfully hosted a record-breaking crowd at our St Patricks Day event. Clients from our Day Centres and Able supported homes were invited, along with their families and Able staff. This all-day event featured many fun activities for our clients to [...]

The National Disability Insurance Scheme, not yet adequately addressing the inequity in provision of disability services in Australia

The National Disability Insurance Scheme, not yet adequately addressing the inequity in provision of disability services in Australia One of the driving forces behind the ‘Every Australian Counts’ campaign to establish a National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) was the inequity of disability service provision, between States, Territories and regions. Approaching [...]

Julie’s Story

Meet Julie. Julie likes to keep busy throughout the week. “My typical week is interesting and full of activities” says Julie. “I go to a Mozart program on Monday and Wednesday, Hydrotherapy on Tuesday once per fortnight and Community Access with my Support Worker on Fridays”. “Rana supports me to [...]

MAIB Service Provider
Able Australia an approved Motor Accidents Insurance Board Service provider

Able Australia is proud to announce we have been selected as an approved Motor Accidents Insurance Board (MAIB) service provider. As a result, Able will now support MAIB clients with support programs. The MAIB is a Tasmanian Government Enterprise (GBE). The objective of the MAIB is to administer the funding [...]

Our New Seniors Intergen Connections Program

On 31 January, Able Australia hosted our first Intergen Connections session in Raceview. This program is all about seniors spending a couple of hours a morning each week with kindergarten kids, helping them learn and play. Research shows that this time is of huge benefit to both seniors and children. [...]

Michael Takes a Historic Train Trip in Tasmania

Michael is an Able Australia client and attends our Lifestyle Choices program in Tasmania four days a week.  Able’s Lifestyle Choices program includes day programs, outings in the community, travelling as a group to a program, events and day trips.  Michael travelled with a group to Devonport to attend Don [...]

Chief People Officer
Welcome to our new Chief People Officer

We are excited to announce the appointment of our new Chief People Officer Meagan Downie Knowles who joined our team last week. Welcome to #TeamAble Meagan. We asked Meagan a few questions as you will read her energy shines through. What drew you to work at Able? I have spent [...]

Celebrating Terry’s Birthday

Recently, some of our clients living in Able Australia supported homes came together to celebrate Able client Terry’s 71st birthday! The group gathered for a lovely meal and shared some cake. Terry loved his Carlton Polo he was gifted. Able client Phil, who once isolated himself, is now out and [...]

Launching Lasting Letters Program for Seniors

On Friday 20 January Able Australia Services, working with the Scenic Rim Regional Council, launched Lasting Letters program for seniors. Lasting Letters is a fun and free way for Able Australia and the Scenic Rim Regional Council to help reduce social isolation for those over 60 in our community. It [...]

Creative Arts Therapy Group Program is back!

Able Australia’s Creative Arts Therapy Group program is back! Come along to our group program designed to support adults with intellectual disabilities experiencing social isolation. This program includes a range of creative arts such as movement, art, dance and sound as a vehicle to explore social connectedness, build self-confidence, promote [...]

St Kilda Day Out With The Deafblind Community

Bec Swansson, Able Australia’s Deafblind Services manager, has created a 12-month Recreational Program for clients who use our deafblind services and the wider deafblind community via Deafblind Victoria. We also extended the invitation to the deaf/deafblind people who frequent Able’s Day services, as they are part of our deafblind community [...]

Paul’s New Lease On Life in Tasmania

For over 15 years we have been providing disability support services in Tasmania. We pride ourselves on delivering better days, every day with and for our clients. Paul is one of our clients in Tasmania. Before joining Able, Paul lived in a nursing home. In the nursing home, Paul was [...]

Christmas End Of Year Party For Our VIC Day Service Clients

On Wednesday 14, our Able East and North clients had their end of year party. Staff and clients had a great day filled with music, presents, a BBQ, snacks and even a visit from Santa! You may also be interested in… [...]

Adventure Cruise For Our Tasmanian Clients

On 25 November, clients of our Young Adult Program in Tasmania went on a 50 minute Cataract Gorge Adventure Cruise along the Gorge and Tamar River! This experience was possible through the Brian M Davis Grant. Clients learnt the history of Launceston’s Seaport, Kings Wharf, heritage properties and the Cataract Gorge. As part [...]

We Attended the Melbourne Disability Expo

The Able team had a booth at the Melbourne Disability Expo on the 25 and 26 November 2022. The Melbourne Disability Expo links people with a disability with hundreds of product and service providers as well as presenting a range of informative and interactive presentations delivered by industry experts.   [...]

Halloween Disco Party For Our Clients

On 28 October, we held a Halloween disco party for our clients at our Northcote day centre!   Our clients and staff gathered together in spooky costumes to celebrate Halloween. Clients and staff had a great day, enjoying art activities and morning tea!   You may also be interested in… [...]

John and Greg’s Holiday

Our clients John and Greg recently enjoyed a fun-filled holiday to Phillip Island with the support of their Able disability support workers!   They enjoyed going to Panny’s Chocolate Factory, going to the beach, shopping, feeding the animals and attending the Artic Discovery Centre at the Nobbies.   You may [...]

Able Art 2022
Able Art 2022

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Phillip Meets His Favourite Band, KISS

Meet Phillip! Able Australia client, Phillip is a huge fan of the band KISS. Our Able House Manager, Claire, ran around last minute to find tickets so that Phillip could go to the KISS concert! Claire also organised for Phillip to go to the airport to meet KISS as they landed [...]

10 Year Anniversary of Ipswich Community Aid

1 November 2022 will mark the 10 year anniversary of when Ipswich Community Aid became a part of Able Australia! The Ipswich Community Aid started in 1974 in the wake of the flooding across the region. The Aid started small by supporting the community to rebuild, and eventually grew to [...]

Celebrating Seniors Month – Seniors Expo 2022

October is Seniors Month! Seniors Month Seniors Month provides opportunities to promote positive community attitudes towards older people and ageing, facilitate community participation, and enhance community connections. To celebrate our wonderful seniors, Able Australia, in partnership with the City of Ipswich, Queensland Government and Queensland Seniors Month, hosted a Seniors [...]

Meet John!

Meet John! John lived in an Able supported home in Melbourne. John has many hobbies and activities he loves. John enjoys cooking, swimming, riding his electronic scooter around the neighbourhood, arts and crafts, playing cards and board games, puzzles on his iPad and bowling. John and his housemate also went [...]

AFL Grand Final BBQ and Game Day

On Wednesday 21 September, we held an AFL Grand Final day for our clients! We held the event at one of our Able East Day Service site. All our day service clients were invited to attend. The Able Australia team organised a BBQ lunch, drinks and games for our clients [...]

New Homes Being Built

On Friday 26 August, we were delighted to have The Hon. Colin Brooks, Victorian Minister for Disability, Ageing and Caring and The Hon. Anthony Carbines, Victorian Member for Ivanhoe visit one of our Able Australia supported homes in Heidelberg Heights. The Ministers met four of our Able clients and staff [...]

Able Comm Guide Training Days

On the 29 and 20 August 2022, we held a two-day communication guide training this week at Able Australia National Office. Trainers were Dr Meredith Prain, Heather Lawson, Bronwen Scott, Dennis Witcombe. Trainees learnt about the role of the commguide, communication strategies, methods and techniques, and how to safely and [...]

Able Game’s Day

In honour of The Commonwealth Games, we hosted a Game Day for our clients at one of our Able Australia Day Services. This included activities such as aqua aerobics, basketball tournaments, soccer matches and many other fun activities. There was also a welcome parade where everyone wore their t-shirt they [...]

Theo’s Achievements

Meet Theo! Theo is an Able Australia client who frequently attends our Day Service. Previously, Theo didn’t engage in many community activity prior to COVID-19. However, with some help from his Able support workers, Theo is now thriving in the community and engaging in daily activities of his choosing such [...]

Christmas in July for our Senior Clients!

Our Queensland team hosted a lovely Christmas in July event in Ipswich on Tuesday 26 July. With over 100 clients in attendance, it was a great way to connect after a tough few years with COVID. Our clients had a jolly good time with entertainment, festive games and a fabulous [...]

Tech Smart Seniors Expo

The Tech Smart Seniors Expo was a very successful partnership between Able Australia and STAR Community Services. The key focus of the expo was to invite seniors to get first-hand information on technology products and services available in their local area that can help maintain their independence and enhance social connections.  We [...]

Supported Independent Living
Able Australia is expanding its SIL Service offering

Able Australia is pleased to announce that 10 Supported Independent Living Services have been transitioned from Melbourne City Mission (MCM) to Able, as of 11 July 2022. As part of this, Able has welcomed approximately 40 participants and almost 100 staff into the Able Community. MCM approached Able to partner [...]

Calling out for Volunteers – support seniors, meet new people and be recognised for your commitment

Do you enjoy being out in the community and meeting new people? Are you passionate and caring? Join our events team who run local events for seniors to prevent social isolation. This includes safety seminars, expos, workshops, exercise sessions and a variety of diverse community events. Help us engage and [...]

Rebecca Volunteering Achievements

In honour of Volunteer Week (16-22 May 2022), we would love to share an inspiring story about our client, Rebecca. Rebecca is 25 years old and has been volunteering at the local Salvos store for the past 4 months. Able staff have supported Rebecca to get workplace experience and try [...]

Volunteer Week 2022 – Quotes from our Volunteers

From May 16 – 22 is National Volunteer Week. National Volunteer Week (NVW) is Australia’s largest annual celebration of volunteering, and is held from 16 – 22 May 2022. At Able, we have around 120 amazing volunteers who give up their time to support vulnerable members of the community in [...]

Vale John Finch, first CEO of Able Australia

It is with sadness that we wish to announce the passing of Mr John Finch. John Finch was the first CEO of Able Australia, formerly known as The Deafblind Association, serving from 1985 – 2002. John also served as a Committee Member of The Australian Deafblind Council from 1993 – [...]

Positive Behaviour Support Success

Clients with complex needs and multiple diagnoses often present with behaviour support needs, after putting themselves or others at risk of harm. We believe that these clients need a different approach in supporting them to live their best lives. Positive Behaviour Support is a well evidenced practice that has been [...]

Easter Morning Tea for our Senior Clients

To celebrate Easter 2022, our seniors in Queensland enjoyed a lovely morning tea. The morning tea included some great music and craft activities. To keep things fun, everyone had the opportunity to make an Easter bonnet. The seniors each got their own bonnet which they could decorate with all sorts [...]

Eddie Keir Award 2021 Recipient

Last year, Dr Meredith Prain and her Centre of Excellence – Deafblind team were awarded the inaugural Eddie Keir Award for their Deafblind Webinar Series. We weren’t able to present Meredith with her award at the time due to COVID restrictions. Fortunately, Di Keir, Eddie Keir’s widow and their granddaughter [...]

Join Our ‘Come and Try’ Deafblind Tech Day

Able Australia ishosting a ‘Come and Try’ Day at our Northcote Tech Hub! This is a great chance to try mainstream and assistive technologies accessible to people with deafblindness. You will have the chance to try lots of smart assistive technology such as Smart glasses Technology to assist in the [...]

Craig’s Impressive Woodwork Creations

Craig has been attending the Moonah Men’s Shed in Tasmania for the past 3 years. Over those 3 years, Craig has worked on lots of different projects. “I like to design my own projects and work out what materials and measurements I will need, I have used most of the [...]

A man with low vision and a woman wearing reading glasses sit at a table in a library. A book is on the table in front of them. The woman is assisting the man to read braile.
The National Disability Insurance Scheme, not yet adequately addressing the inequity in provision of disability services in Australia

  By Dr. Meredith Prain, National Head of Research and Centre of Excellence – Deafblind, Able Australia. One of the driving forces behind the ‘Every Australian Counts’ campaign to establish a National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) was the inequity of disability service provision, between States, Territories and regions. Approaching its [...]

Lynette McKeown new CEO Able Australia
Able Australia CEO appointed

Able Australia Board Chair, Peter Reilly OAM announces Lynette McKeown has been appointed CEO of Able Australia. Lynette comes into this role having held a series of executive positions within Able, most recently as Chief Operating Officer. Prior to joining Able Australia, Lynette held senior roles at Monash Health here [...]

Group Art Projects

Each year Able Australia hosts our annual art exhibition – Able Art. Able Art is one way that we celebrate and share the incredible talents and achievements of our clients. In last year’s exhibition, we had two masterpieces that were created in a group effort, which was so wonderful to [...]

Exciting Programs for our Seniors Clients in Queensland

Our seniors community in Queensland have been taking part in some fun and exciting programs recently. These programs are a great way for seniors to socialise, remain active and stay engaged with the local community. Cake Cuppa Connect is a fun program brought to our seniors from Karyn at Therapigs. [...]

Christmas Presents for Clients

For Christmas last year, our Able residential support staff wanted to make sure our clients had the best Christmas possible. 2021 was such a challenging year for our clients because there was so much change and instability. It was so nice to finish the year off on a high. Eric [...]

Welcoming Submissions for Senior Stories 2022 Book

We are excited to announce that we will be creating our third edition of Senior Stories. Seniors Stories is a compilation of stories written by our senior clients within the Queensland Community. Telling stories is one of the most powerful means we have to influence, teach and inspire. Our stories [...]

Kate MacRae
Announcement from Able Australia Board Chair

Able Australia’s Board Chair, Peter Reilly OAM announces the following [...]

Our Queensland Team End of Year Celebrations

2021 was a challenging year for all. To celebrate the triumphs and enjoy the festive season, our Able Australia team at our Jimboomba site in Queensland went Zone Bowling! Staff and volunteers were able let off some steam and enjoy gathering together with some friendly competition. Congratulations to first place [...]

Able Art Exhibition 2021

Each year, Able Australia hosts Able Art – an event that showcases the incredible art that our clients with disability create. Able Art is a weeklong event that coincides with 3 December – International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD). IDPwD aims to increase public awareness, understanding, and acceptance of [...]

Meet Ellice – Our Volunteer Who Enriches the Loves of Our Senior Clients

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Able Australia Collaboration with Swinburne University to Improve Accessibility for People with Deafblindness

Have you ever noticed how much you are using technology in your day-to-day life to make things easier? Unfortunately, access to mainstream technologies that we use everyday is not yet as available for people with deafblindness. To combat this, Able Australia have collaborated with Swinburne University to better understand the [...]

Our Queensland Team Helping Spread Christmas Joy

Every year, our Queensland team put together 100 food and toy hampers which are provided to families and individuals who are experiencing financial distress. We want to ensure that everyone has a merry Christmas, no matter their circumstances. For the last 5 years, McAuley College have assisted us with a [...]

Seniors Expo 2021

To continue the Seniors Month celebrations, we held a Seniors Expo for our senior clients in Queensland. At the expo, there were 42 exhibitors, craft activities, pet therapy, barnyard babies, the Ipswich Veteran and Vintage car club with a vehicle display, plant Q&A, an exercise demonstration, a multicultural performance by [...]

Launching Seniors Stories Book

On Monday 25 October 2021, we launched our second release of our Seniors Stories. Seniors Stories is a compilation of over 100 stories written by our senior clients within the Queensland Community. Our Queensland team held a special book launch to celebrate everyone who contributed in creating this beautiful collection [...]

Positive Behaviour Support
Positive Behaviour Support launches in Queensland

We are excited to announce we are expanding our Positive Behaviour Support service to Queensland. Our Positive Behaviour Support Practitioner Ashley has moved from Melbourne up to Queensland. We sat down with Ash to ask him a few questions about Positive Behaviour Support. How do you assist our clients? By [...]

Our Clients Explore Their Passions By Volunteering

Clients Eric and Craig love to cook and help others! So over the past few months, Able staff have been supporting Eric and Craig to attend the Gagebrook Community Centre to participate in their Fast Foodies program. The Fast Foodies program is run by volunteers who cook meals, relishes, jams [...]

Volunteers Bringing Companionship To Our Senior Residents

At Able Australia, we continue enrich the quality of life of residents of aged care homes who are socially isolated or lonely through our Community Visitors Scheme (CVS). It also helps establish links between people living in aged care homes and their local community. Trish (in the image below to [...]

A Special Surprise For Our Staff For R U OK Day

In light of R U OK Day on 9 September, Able Australia sent each of our 730 staff around Australia a special care pack. We used the care packs as an opportunity for our people leaders to check in with staff about their mental wellbeing, which is especially important during [...]

Queensland Vaccination Hub

On Tuesday the 7th of September, we opened our Lowood site as a COVID-19 vaccination hub for the second time. In collaboration with Aspen Medical, this vaccination hub brings the vaccine to our clients, staff, and community members in South East Queensland. Our Able Queensland team also arranged with those [...]

Our New Food Pantry Vehicle

We are so pleased and appreciative to acquire a new Able branded Food Services Vehicle! This vehicle represents the purchase of a program specific vehicle, for collecting grocery products from Food Bank and Second Bite Coles Supermarkets, as well as other suppliers including Woolworths and Aldi. These products are then [...]

Yarn Bombing for Deafblind Awareness 2021

In Australia, Deafblind Awareness Week was celebrated from the 21st – 27th June this year. The global initiative for Deafblind Awareness Week 2021 was yarn bombing. This is a form of street art where knitted or crocheted squares adorn an object in a public space. Why Yarn Bombing? Yarn bombing [...]

Able Clients Attend Equine Program in Tasmania

Recently in May, clients from our Lifestyle Choices and Young Adults program in Tasmania attended the Equine Program! This program was set up by Rebecca from Reclink Northern Tasmania, and is open for all members of the community to join in on the fun. Our clients had the opportunity to [...]

Able Community Project Manager wins Australian Road Safety Award!

Congratulations Jessy Byrnes and the Queensland Community Services team. Because of Jessy’s incredible work, we are proud to announce that Able, the Ipswich Police District Crime Prevention Unit and Neighbourhood Watch Australasia were successful in winning an Australian Road Safety Award for the Seniors Road Trip to Road Safety Project [...]

Become a Deafblind Communication Guide!

Deafblind Communication Guide Training Program 2021 Able Australia is looking for individuals who are fluent in Auslan and have a positive attitude and empathy to take part in a Deafblind Communication Guide training program. Deafblind Communication Guides provide direct one to one support to people who are deafblind. They assist [...]

Seniors Safety & Wellbeing Seminar

On the 15th of June 2021, Able Australia held a Seniors Safety & Wellbeing Seminar for our Queensland clients to help spread awareness of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. This day aims to raise awareness of elder abuse, which is any act which causes harm to an older person and [...]

Able Clients Unique Art

Meet Able client, Paul! Paul is an artist who lives in Tasmania and specialises in creating beautiful handmade rugs. Each one of these colourful, richly textured rugs are the product of up to 100 hours of work. Using a tool called a ‘Latch Hook’, which is similar to a crochet [...]

Events For Our Incredible Volunteers

On May 19 2021, during National Volunteers Week our team in Queensland hosted a volunteer open day. The event aimed to encourage more people to get involved in volunteering and give back to the community. The event was a great success with the Ipswich SES and Community Radio Station River [...]

Saying Goodbye to Long-Standing Donor, Marion Jennings

It is with great sadness that we say our last goodbyes to long-standing Able supporter, Miss Marion Jennings. Miss Jennings sadly passed away last year. She had been donating to Able Australia since 2001, contributing greatly to our work to support people with disability to live the life they choose. [...]

Celebrating our Volunteers – Meet Trish

National Volunteer Week (NVW) is Australia’s largest annual celebration for volunteers. From Monday 17- 23 May 2021, NVW celebrates the significant positive contribution of Australia’s volunteers. Able Australia are so grateful to all our incredible volunteers who give up their time to help vulnerable people within the community. Our volunteers are vital to [...]

Karen’s Incredible Story

Karen used to work in Marketing and Communications and was an executive member of her team. She loved her job, as it allowed her to travel the country as she chased the ultimate job. Almost 10 years ago, Karen suffered a severe stroke that paralysed the left side of her [...]

Volunteer Open Day Event

  Are you interested in giving back to the community? Become a volunteer at Able Australia and help support vulnerable people within the community in South East Queensland! We are hosting a Volunteer Open Day Event in Queensland in light of National Volunteer Week coming up soon. If you are [...]

Living Independently in Kingston

We are so excited about this wonderful article featured in the Kingsborough Chronicle about our client, Paul, and his experience getting back into the community with Able Australia supports! Paul used to live in a nursing home in Tasmania. In the nursing home, Paul was quiet and didn’t get much [...]

Disability Support Worker Spotlight – Siam

At Able Australia, we have over 600 staff and 200 volunteers who work tirelessly to provide our clients the highest quality of support and continuously seek to improve the consistency of our service delivery. We are so grateful for our amazing staff who embody our values of trust, respect, excellence [...]

Peter Reilly at Government House to receiving his Order of Australia medal
Congratulations Able Board Treasurer, Peter Reilly OAM

Able Australia’s Board Treasurer, Peter Reilly was awarded an Order of Australia as part of this year’s Australia Day Honours list and received his medal from Victoria’s Governor General The Hon. Linda Dessau AC at Government House last week. Peter’s inclusion in this year’s Australia Day Honours list recognises his [...]

In Loving Memory of Able Donor, Elizabeth

It is with immense sadness that we announce the passing of long-standing Able supporter, Miss Elizabeth Don McConnan. Elizabeth touched the lives of so many, and she will be dearly missed. Elizabeth sadly passed away on 26 August 2018. Passionate about doing her bit to support people with disability to [...]

Donors Bringing Christmas Joy to Our Clients

Even though Christmas 2020 was very different compared to previous years, we still wanted to make sure our clients had a fun festive day filled with joy and gifts! We called out to our donors last year to help us purchase Christmas presents for our clients living in Able supported [...]

Dual Sensory Impairment in the aging client

Able Australia’s Dr Meredith Prain, National Head of Research and Centre of Excellence – Deafblind together with Dr Bronwen Scott, Orientation and Mobility Specialist discuss dual sensory impairment in the aging client in Audiology Now. Deafblindness is “a unique and isolating sensory disability resulting from the combination of both hearing [...]

Animal Farm in Tasmania Giving Our Clients A New Experience

While many of us may be familiar with service dogs, a mum in Tasmania has thought outside the square to provide a different array of service animals for her son who is a wheelchair user and other clients in Able’s Tasmanian community and beyond. She started with a cow and [...]

The Deafblind Employability Project

The Deafblind Employability Project: A step in the right direction The United Nations convention on the rights of persons with disabilities Article 27. States “States Parties recognize the right of persons with disabilities to work, on an equal basis with others; this includes the right to the opportunity to gain [...]

Taking on TAFE Students in Tasmania

At Able Australia, we offer students an opportunity to learn from our experienced support workers, staff members and managers on how to provide high quality person-centred support to people with disability. We want to ensure that people with disability are heard, valued and live the life they choose with the [...]

Able Client’s New Impressive Art Creation

Meet Eric! Eric is an Able Australia client who has a real interest and flair for design. Eric’s latest creation is this amazing cardboard mock-up of a restaurant with a pool! He started his creation by firstly drawing up a number of blueprints by hand for the restaurant prior to [...]

Supporting Our Senior Clients With The Community Visitors Scheme

The Community Visitors Scheme (CVS) is a national program funded by the Australian Government. The CVS aims to enrich the quality of life of residents of aged care homes who are socially isolated or lonely, and would benefit from a friendly visitor. The CVS also helps establish links between people [...]

Our Northcote Day Centre Is Back Open!

We are excited to announce that our Northcote Day Centre is officially back open as of today (12 January)! Due to COVID-19 restrictions, we temporarily closed our state-of-the-art centre to keep our clients safe. We were able to slowly open it back up with a limited capacity. Now we are [...]

Meet Hana – Our Occupational Therapist

Meet Hana! Hana works at Able Australia as an Occupational Therapist, specialising in adaptive technology. Hana works from our new Northcote Day Centre to support our clients reach their goals with the assistance of technology that is adaptive for people with disability. We asked Hana a few questions about how [...]

Donated Craft Packs Bring Early Christmas Cheer To Our Clients

In early December 2020, we delivered 48 donated craft packs to our clients living in supported homes across Victoria. Simonne and the amazing volunteer group from NextGen Philanthropy generously made packs that included different craft materials so that our clients can get creative this festive season. This amazing volunteer group [...]

Logan City Council donation
Big thanks to Logan City Council

With the end of year fast approaching and as we begin to reflect on the year, we are extremely grateful for the many organisations who supports us. We would like to take this opportunity to thank the Logan City Council for their very generous donation of $1,000. Earlier in the [...]

Seniors Road Trip to Road Safety Project

Able Australia’s Queensland team led by Community Project Manager, Jessy Byrnes, are currently running the Seniors Road Trip to Road Safety Project. Road Safety Statistics indicate that whilst driver’s over 60 years are only 24.5% of the licenced driver’s, they are 32.6% of the drivers in fatal crashes. Able Australia [...]

Meet Victoria – Our Creative Arts Therapist

As an Art Therapist, Victoria’s role is based around working with clients, either in a group or one-on-one setting, with art materials in a therapeutically-minded way. Victoria facilitates group art therapy sessions at our new Northcote Day Centre and is curating 2020 Able Art. Whilst we haven’t been able to [...]

Northcote Day Centre Sensory Garden
A garden built from the heart

Each year Able has a number of projects which our workforce are significantly devoted to. Winner of the 2019 Debbie Prior Award Leslie Barr donated her prize money of $3,000 to the Sensory Garden at the Northcote Day Centre. With the help of Allyson (Ally) (Able Australia Disability Support Worker), [...]

Young Adults Program Participants visit TAFE!

During 2019, participants of the Young Adults program in Tasmania attended many interesting activity sessions at TasTAFE! Once session included using virtual 3D goggles! Clients chose what they would like to see through the goggles, such as an underwater scene where they could touch fish, poke at sea anemone and [...]

Get Involved in Deafblind International’s Yarn Bombing Project

Deafblind International (DbI) is inviting YOU to join them in a movement that will build deafblind awareness on a global scale!   Deafblind International are hosting a Global Yarn Bombing project for their June 2021 awareness campaign. This is an exciting and creative way to engage members of the deafblind [...]

Meet Our Able Volunteers

Meet some of our Able volunteers!   We recently asked our Queensland volunteers to share with us their Able Volunteer Story.   We are so grateful for our volunteers who give up their time to support the community. Without them, Able would not be what it is today.   Watch [...]

Winners of My Grand Hero Awards

On National Grandparents Day (25th October), we would like congratulate the winners of My Grand Hero Awards, Robert and Moira Christensen!   Our Queensland team held My Grand Hero Awards, which offered seniors an opportunity to share with us what it means to them to be a grandparent.   National [...]

Celebrating Our Grand Heroes

In celebration of Grandparents Day on the 25th of October, we held a contest for grandparents across Australia called My Grand Hero Awards. Our Queensland Community Project Manager, Jessy Byrnes, and the Able Queensland team held this contest to help put a smile on grandparent’s faces by recognising all the [...]

Northcote Day Centre for Adults with Disability
Northcote Tour

We are excited to invite you to our rescheduled virtual tour of the Northcote Day Centre for Adults with Disability. This is your opportunity to see for yourself, this beautiful, modern facility from the comfort of your home. Discover how we help clients live more independently and connect with the [...]

My Grand Hero Awards

Calling on all grandparents! Share with us a photo and let us know what it means to you to be a grandparent for a chance to win a luxury hamper!   We want to put a smile on grandparent’s faces by recognising all the Grand Heroes out there.   Nominations [...]

Its Party Time!

During this crazy COVID time, a few of our Able staff members wanted to cheer up our clients at one of our supported homes by throwing party! The theme of the party was “The great escape”, which aimed to bring some joy and excitement during strict social isolation in Victoria. [...]

Having Fun While Staying Safe

The Young Adults Program and Lifestyle Choice Program in Tasmania are not letting COVID-19 stop them from having fun and being active! Whilst abiding by the Government restrictions, our Tasmanian team and clients from both Able Lifestyle Choices and the Young Adult Program, joined the sports program organised by Reclink [...]

Isolation Activity – Able Word Jumble

We know that social isolation can be quite boring and dull for some, especially those living in Victoria. So, here’s a Able Word Jumble activity to bring some light-hearted fun to your day! Below is a list of words which have been jumbled up – your job is to un-jumble [...]

A Floral Surprise For Our Clients!

The COVID-19 pandemic has undeniably been a difficult time for us all. Our generous donor, Carmel, wanted to help put a smile on our clients face by sending them a beautiful bouquet of flowers! Carmel has been kindly supporting Able Australia since 1997, and wanted to show our clients that [...]

Authors Of Our Seniors Short Story Book Discover A Surprising Connection

To help celebrate this year’s Seniors Week (15-23 August) and our amazing senior clients, a Seniors Short Story Book was launched! A wonderful initiative of our Active Living Program for Seniors in Queensland, the Senior Stories book was published in August 2020. This features the incredible short stories and poems [...]

In Loving Memory of Patience Harris, Able Donor For Life

  In loving memory of Patience (Pat) Harris.   Pat was born in March 1928 and sadly passed away in January 2020.   Pat worked most of her life for the Post Master General (PMG) as a telecommunication officer and seemed to love working night duty. She was a great [...]

Queensland Seniors Week Celebrations

This year, we celebrated Queensland Seniors Week from 15-23 August! Queensland Seniors Week provides opportunities to promote positive community attitudes towards older people and ageing, facilitate community participation, and enhance community connections. During Seniors Week, as a part of our Active Living Program for Seniors, the Able Queensland team launched [...]

Updated Rules For Mask Wearing In Victoria

The Victorian Government has publicly clarified some of the rules and exemptions around mask wearing. Members of the deaf or hard of hearing community are allowed to take off their mask to aid communication. It’s also okay to ask other people to remove their mask to make communication easier. To watch the explanation [...]

Baking Zoom Sessions For Clients Are Back!

Due to popular demand, the baking Zoom sessions have continued for our clients in supported homes in Victoria and Tasmania! A few of our clients suggested that this time, clients and their Support Workers make slices. Each home made a different type of slice, and all seemed to agree that [...]

Remembering Mr Eddie Keir OAM

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of one of the founding members of Able Australia, Eddie Keir. Edmond Keir, known to us all as ‘Eddie’, passed away surrounded by family on 16 July 2020 after a prolonged illness. Eddie is survived by his wife Di, daughters [...]

Artistic Volunteer Creates Unique Farewell Gift For Staff Member

Soon, our Queensland National Director of Service Development, Community Services and Transport, Richard, will sadly be retiring. So to say thanks, one of our volunteers Tyler, drew a wonderful picture of Richard as a farewell present!   Tyler is one of our amazing volunteers who works in Food Pantry and [...]

Able Australia’s Scone-Making Bake-Off

    To bring a little fun to mundane life of social isolation, Able Australia hosted scone-baking Zoom sessions for our clients in supported homes, with a focus on Victoria and Tasmania! This light-hearted activity encouraged clients to get involved in various ways to bake some delicious scones. This included [...]

Roy Youth Worker
Meet Roy our team member

Meet Roy! Roy is one of our passionate staff members. Each day Roy makes a difference to the lives of many of our clients. Roy has overcome a great deal of challenges throughout his life and has an incredible outlook on life. He continues to spread optimism and hope to [...]

Personal Protective Equipment PPE Disability
Able’s drive for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

The health and safety of our clients, staff and families continues to be our number one priority. In a bid to help keep our clients, staff and families’ and safe during this time, our drive for procuring Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) has been extensive.  From gown sewing drives to collaborating [...]

A Garden Bench In Loving Memory Of ‘Billy’

  William was born on the 4th of September 1947. He spent most of his childhood with his living parents and siblings. In 2000, William moved into a Able Supported Home in Andrew Street which he shared with 3 other gentlemen. His family visited regularly and they treated the staff [...]

Meet two of our Green Thumb Clients

Karen and Jeffery are two of our wonderful clients that live at one of Able’s resident homes in Tasmania. With the help of their support workers, Karen, Jeffery and their co-residents work together to water, weed and nurture their veggie patch and fruit trees in their back garden. This year, [...]

Queensland’s Innovative Initiatives to Lift Spirits During COVID-19

Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around. – Leo Buscaglia Across Australia and the world, people are living with a [...]

Monash University Collaboration

Able Australia are currently collaborating with Monash University on a new project to provide more online connection, communication and support to people with disability and their families. The project is trialing the use of telepractice by allied health student training with Able Australia clients across Tasmania. The interdisciplinary team consists [...]

COVID-19 PPE Face Shield
Local production of Face Shields is underway for the Disability Sector

The shortage of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) has been a challenge for not only Able Australia but the disability sector has a whole. The health and safety of our clients, workers, volunteers and families is and continues to be our highest priority. As a result, our drive for PPE hasn’t [...]

PPE Surgical Face Masks
Able Australia procuring P2 masks for the Disability Sector

The health and safety of our clients, staff and families continues to be our number one priority. A sector wide shortage of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as gowns, masks, hand sanitiser and gloves continues. We have been working tirelessly over a number of weeks to secure much needed PPE. [...]

Personal Protective Equipment Face Masks
Face masks have arrived!

We have been working tirelessly behind the scenes to obtain Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for our workers to help keep them and our clients safe. We are thrilled we have finally taken stock of some PPE that staff within the disability sector can use. This shipment is for certified fae [...]

Able Australia National Volunteer Week
Our Amazing Queensland Volunteers

Able Australia is lucky to have so many volunteers in Queensland who kindly offer their time and effort to support the community’s most vulnerable groups. Our volunteers help out in many different ways in the community. A few of Able’s volunteers prepare and cook  meals for vulnerable people within the [...]

National Volunteer Week
First Day of Volunteer Week – Tyler’s Story

Happy Volunteer Week! Although Able mainly provides individualised support for people with disability, we also offer a range of other services in Queensland. Many of these services are made possible by our wonderful volunteers. In the photo above/to the right is Tyler. Tyler joined us as one of our amazing [...]

Ted Pawley, Gone But Never Forgotten

In loving memory of Edward (Ted) Pawley. Ted Pawley sadly passed away on 29th of March 2020. Ted held high respect in his family and in his community. Towards the end of WW2, at 18 years of age, Ted enlisted in the Royal Australian Airforce (RAAF) and served in Australia and Papua [...]

Workshop Series: Working with People with Deafblindness

Join Able Australia as we deliver a series of free interactive workshops on deafblindness in Mount Gambier, South Australia from Tuesday 29th – Thursday  31st October. Through attending the workshops, participants will develop a broad understanding of deafblindness, its causes and implications, and how to work confidently and safely in [...]

Able Australia Easter Chocolate
Lindt Australia Brings Easter Joy To Our Clients

Coronavirus has created an enormous impact on how we manage our day-to-day lives, including how we socialize and celebrate important occasions. However, the upside of this is that it has nurtured a feeling of giving in the community. To maintain the government-mandated distance required from one another, we have had [...]

Volunteer Army Called Upon to Sew Protective Gowns for Frontline Disability Support Workers

The lack of personal protection equipment (PPE) has been an issue across the community. As a disability service provider, supporting some of our community’s most vulnerable, we want to ensure that both our clients and workers are kept as safe as possible. We are not alone. This is true for [...]

Activities For Seniors in Jimboomba

Able Australia offers a range of programs in Queensland for seniors to help maintain good mental and physical health, social inclusion and prolong a person’s ability to remain living independently in their own home. In Jimboomba (QLD), Able Australia also focused on providing transport for those that cannot travel to [...]

Deafblind Camp 2020

Able Australia’s National Deafblind Camp ran from the 13th-15th of March 2020, and it seems to get bigger and better each year! This year marked the 20th Deafblind Camp, and was held at Phillip Island Adventure Resort. Deafblind Camp is an amazing opportunity for people in this widespread community to [...]

Verica’s Trip to Sydney

This is Verica. Verica had been looking forward to an action packed weekend in Sydney, to see one of her favourite bands the ‘Black Eyed Pea’s live, and visit Madame Tussauds Museum! In November 2020, Verica commenced her much anticipated journey from Canberra to Sydney by train. Joining Verica on [...]

Coronavirus update
COVID-19 (Coronavirus Update)

Able Australia has been closely monitoring information provided to us by both the Federal and State Government about COVID-19 (Coronavirus). We have formed an Emergency Response Team, led by Kate MacRae our CEO. This team is meeting daily to discuss our COVID-19 preparedness so that we can respond as quickly [...]

Northcote Day Centre for adults with disability
Official Opening of The New Northcote Day Centre

26 February 2020 On Wednesday the 26th of February Able Australia’s Northcote Day Centre was officially opened by Cr Susan Rennie, Mayor of the City of Darebin. We were joined by clients, donors, supporters, as well as Dr Helen Nugent, Chair of the NDIS and Ms Kat Theophanous, Member for [...]

Able wins Ipswich District Community Safety Crime Prevention Award

12 November 2019. Recently Able Australia’s Active Living Program for Seniors (ALPS) was nominated for the 2019 Ipswich District Community Safety Crime Prevention Awards. Last week, ALPS took out the winner in the Community Engagement category!  ALPS is an outreach community support program designed to connect older people with locally delivered initiatives [...]

Donation brings Grand Final dreams to life

7 October 2019. Meet Francis! Francis is a much loved client at Able Australia. He has lived and breathed the Richmond FC his whole life. Growing up, when his Tigers guernsey was washed, he would sit under it on the line waiting for it to dry. Throughout the season, Francis [...]

Able Clients Dance in Creative Community Project

26 September 2019. This month clients of Able Australia have been involved in a community theatre event. The Re-Embody Project is organised by Interweave Arts and was part of the Junction Arts Festival in Launceston this month. In preparation for the event, organisers from Interweave Arts joined Able clients at the Young [...]

Carla Anderson inducted to the 2019 Victorian Disability Award, Lifetime Achievement Honour Roll

28 August 2019. Carla Anderson, Director – Centre of Excellence Deafblind at Able Australia joins the Lifetime Achievement Honour Roll as part of the 2019 Victorian Disability Award. This award is one in a long list of accolades Carla has received over her career spanning close to 40 years. Carla [...]

Check out our video launched recently at the Deafblind International Conference

26 August 2019. See how Joe, Michael and Alisha are removing accessibility barriers with the support of Able’s deafblind services. Check out the video on the About us page. About us Everyday Able Australia provides services and support to enable people with dual sensory loss to live the life they choose. [...]

Able Australia celebrates Queensland Seniors Week 2019

20 August 2019. Able Australia hosted a Gala Luncheon and Expo in Ipswich in celebration of Queensland Seniors Week and what a tremendous success it turned out to be. With over 200 seniors attending, 37 organisations as exhibitors and the wonderful entertainment of Graham Hobson the Ipswich Civic Centre was [...]

Able Australia hosts Deafblind International World Conference

1 August 2019. From 12 – 16 August, the Gold Coast, Australia is playing host to over 400 people representing 30 different countries from across the international deafblind community – a condition that impacts almost 500,000 Australians. Over 400 people from across the international deafblind community will be descending to [...]

Vale – Bev Staughton

29 July 2019. Able Australia would like to pay our respects to the late Bev Staughton, a committed supporter of Able Australia in the 1960s. We offer our condolences to the Staughton family and thank them for their contribution to Able Australia over the years. Ex-CEO John Finch has kindly [...]

Tax Appeal
Able celebrates Deafblind Awareness Week 2019

17 June 2019. Deafblind Awareness Week will be celebrated internationally this year from 24 June – 30 June. Deafblind Awareness Week coincides with the birth date of one of the world’s most famous deafblind people – Helen Keller. Deafblindness is a unique condition in which a person has either partial [...]

Bostik pays Able an exciting visit

16 May 2019. Able Australia has received an exciting visit from Bostik Australia! After contacting Bostik to let them know about the incredible ways their Blu Tack product is used in our art therapy sessions, they wanted to come down and see it for themselves. Accompanied by stunning pieces of [...]

DB camp
Deafblind Camp another great success

4 April 2019. Able’s annual Deafblind Camp gives Deafblind people from around the country a time and place to come together in a safe environment with 24/7 support. Over the years, the camp has run in a number of venues and areas, but campers agree that as long as they [...]

Able Special Projects Coordinator discusses conference plans in Nairobi, Kenya

20 March 2019. Gary Daly is the Special Projects Coordinator at Able Australia and Secretary at Deafblind International, an organisation focused on the needs of individuals who are deafblind, their families and the professionals who provide services to deafblind people. In Nairobi, Kenya earlier this month, Gary attended the Deafblind [...]

Able runs NDIS Q&A session for Deafblind Community in Queensland

13 March 2019. On 12 March, Able Australia had the opportunity to present to some of the Queensland Deafblind community about the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). The morning session was a great success with a number of participants coming to hear Able’s Senior Support Coordinator Justin Elks speak about [...]

Happy International Women’s Day 2019

8 March 2019. The theme for International Women’s Day 2019 is Balance is Better. Able Australia would like to take this opportunity to celebrate all women, and in particular women with disabilities and those who support them. National Disability Services have published a media release sharing some great work that [...]

Able Clients Swap the City Life for a Day on the Farm

6 March 2019. The Young Adult Program runs during the week at our day centre in Invermay, Launceston. Every Friday, the team love to get out of the city and over to the outskirts of Launceston where staff member Angus has access to a farm filled with animals and luscious [...]

Red and White Smart Beetle Braille Machine
Technology Acts as a ‘Lifeline’ for those with Deafblindness

9 February 2019. Heather and Michelle are deafblind. With the support of Able Australia and Ablelink, our digital literacy hub, they have used technology to maintain their independence. ABC News have published an article on the use of technology at Ablelink, and how it has changed lives for Able Australia [...]

sharon_and_kaii_smiling
A Sudsational Idea

10 January 2019. Sharon, a client of Able Australia, shows resilience and ingenuity when faced with a significant life change. Mid last year Sharon was given the unfortunate news that her position working at the mail centre had been made redundant after 15 years of service. Disappointed, Sharon and her [...]

Able client Ross holding an iPhone in his left hand and smiling.
Mobile Phone Donation Rings Through Able Australia

5 November 2018. Ablelink is Able Australia’s e-communications program. Ablelink incorporates a drop-in centre, extensive training and state-of-the-art adaptive communication technologies to help clients develop digital literacy skills that help them remain in regular contact with family and friends. Mobile Muster, an organisation running Australia’s only government accredited mobile phone [...]

Two Able clients practising First Aid with one wrapping a bandage around the other's arm.
St John Provide Able Australia Valuable First Aid Classes

2 November 2018. Clients from the North Tasmanian Lifestyle Choices and the Young Adult Program (YAP) have successfully completed another session of First Aid. Twice each year, the clients at both programs participate in a First Aid information session run by St John Ambulance. In these sessions, there is a [...]

Hands feeling a white piece of paper cut into a crescent shape.
What is Able Art? An Introduction to Able’s Creative Art Therapy Program

18 October 2018. Creative Arts Therapy is based on the belief that art-making within a therapeutic context supports changes in a person’s inner world and helps them develop a more integrated sense of self. Able Art has been Able Australia’s creative arts therapy program for over ten years. The growing [...]

Two Able Young Adult Program clients undertaking a cooking program.
Able Clients Cooking Up A Storm in the Community

3 October 2018. Able Australia’s Young Adult Program (YAP) is a popular day service where clients aged between 18-30 can build positive relationships with each other and the community, as well as increase their independence and learn important life skills. A key part of the Young Adult Program is its [...]

Able Australia interpreter Dennis Whitcombe using tactile sign on Able client Jasper's back.
Jasper Shares Able Experience

2 October 2018. Able client Jasper writes about his experiences of being deafblind with the intention to support others and raise awareness through his lived experience. “Earlier this week we had another visit from the two lovely professionals I mentioned before, Carla Anderson, the deafblind services manager from Able Australia, [...]

Deaf Interpreter Sandra and Able Australia client Jasper using deafblind fingerspelling
Able Australia Celebrates National Week Of Deaf People Around The Country

26 September 2018. The weekend saw Able Australia represented at a number of events held as a part of National Week of Deaf People. In Melbourne Deborah, who is Deafblind, attended the Deaf Market at the school grounds of Deaf Children Australia. The market was held on Sunday 23 September [...]

Able client Michael wearing a motorbike helmet being buckled into a go-kart on his holiday.
Michael’s Holiday Goals Achieved

17 September 2018. Each year, Able clients set goals with the help of their support networks and plans are put in place to help bring these goals to life. In his planning meeting this year, Able client Michael set the goal of going on a holiday. Throughout the year, Able [...]

Sharon Barrey Grassick
In Memory Of Sharon Barrey Grassick

13 September 2018. After a very lengthy struggle with cancer, Sharon Barrey Grassick, aged 68, passed away on ­­August 25th 2018 in the Bethesda Hospice at Claremont, Western Australia, surrounded by her close friends and Rob, her much loved son. Sharon (Sha to her close friends) was widely regarded as [...]

Sharing the knowledge to ACT. Accessibility. Communication. Technology. Now is your time to act"
Able Australia to Host 17th Deafblind International World Conference in 2019!

30 August 2018. The 17th Deafblind International World Conference will be hosted by Able Australia on the Gold Coast in Queensland, Australia in August 2019. With over 500 delegates from over 35 different countries expected to attend, the conference will give attendees the opportunity to discuss issues, research and personal [...]

Able client Colin standing in front of a Ron Barassi statue wearing a Richmond Tigers jersey
Richmond Fan Kicking Goals With The Support Of Able Staff

5 August 2018. Every week, stadiums across Australia are met with roaring crowds and excited anticipation. AFL is one of Australia’s most popular sports, and it’s a long-time love of Able client Colin. For over 10 years, Colin has been a diehard Richmond Football Club fan. Club hats, memberships, shirts, [...]

Able clients at the Young Adult Program day centre at their Christmas in July event.
YAP and Lifestyle Choices Celebrate Christmas in July

10 August 2018. What do you get when you combine the Able Australia Launceston Lifestyle Choices Program and Young Adult Program (YAP)? The North Pole in North Tasmania, complete with falling snow! Okay… Maybe it wasn’t real snow – but the bubble machine did well to give that illusion during [...]

Able client Colin sitting with Able volunteer driver Leon.
Social Outing Program in Queensland Gives New Life Experience

23 July 2018. Colin was born in Lowood, Queensland 86 years ago. Lowood ‘born and bred’, Colin loves the land, says his cattle are his passion and he rarely leaves Lowood at all. This year, things started to change. Colin joined Able Australia’s social outings group in Lowood. Initially, Colin [...]

tasTAFE students sitting with Able clients using a computer at the TAFE.
YAP Share Learning Experience with TAFE Students

20 July 2018. Clients from the Young Adult Program (YAP) in Launceston and students and teachers at tasTAFE have had a great shared learning opportunity over the last eight weeks.  The Health, Aged Care & Disability department at tasTAFE offered YAP clients a free course in Information Technology (IT) that [...]

Able client Peter wearing Croatia soccer team colours
World Cup Excitement Connects Client with Local Community.

18 July 2018. Eagerly following the World Cup over the last four weeks, Peter, an Able client of Croatian descent, has shown his dedication and love for the game. Peter stayed up all night to watch his team win the semi-finals and secure a place in the final. Thrilled with [...]

Able client Deb smiling with Aboriginal Elder Judith Jackson at Able's NAIDOC week celebration
Able East Celebrates NAIDOC Week

15 July 2018. As part of NAIDOC week celebrations, Able’s East Melbourne Lifestyle Choices group Able East had the privilege of having Aboriginal Elder Aunty Jacko (Judith Jackson) visit to speak about Aboriginal culture and tell her life story. Judy is from Roma (Queensland) and is a part of the [...]

'Fathers' and 'Waffles' of the Ullysses Bike club standing with Edmund McMahon of Able Australia with a large cheque for $1650
Able Australia Youth Service Receives Donation from Ulysses Club

4 July 2018. When Able’s Queensland Youth Support Program Coordinator Edmund McMahon approached the president of the Mount Lindesay branch of the Ulysses Club and explained the needs of our clients, it was met with a very welcome and appreciated surprise. To read the full story, click here. [...]

Kate MacRae, Sandi Pontin, Carla Anderson and Peter Hitchener at the Deafblind Awareness Week fun day
Deafblind Awareness Week Fun Day

26 June 2018. June 16 saw a very successful Deafblind Awareness Week fun day at our Camberwell location in Victoria. Throughout the day, 34 deafblind clients came along, as well as more than 50 volunteers, family members, students from Melbourne Polytechnic and Able Australia staff. The morning started with speeches [...]

Able client Robert sitting inside a red and white CFA fire truck.
CFA Dream Restarted

20 June 2018. Client Robert Uren has had his dream of working at the CFA realised through the support of Able. Robert’s story began in 2014 when he met with Karen Major, Best Practice Advisor, now National Manager of Quality and Compliance, for his individual planning meeting. Robert shared with [...]

Two Able Australia staff and two Queensland Police Officers at the World Elder Abuse Awareness Day Able Australia display
Able Australia Celebrates World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

15 June 2018. On Friday 15 June, the Able Australia Active Living Program for Seniors (ALPS) team held a successful community event to celebrate the contribution of seniors in the community and recognise World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD). The ALPS team organises, promotes and attends many events in Queensland [...]

Able volunteer Daryl sitting at a table with three others at the Volunteer of the Year awards
Able Volunteer Shortlisted for Volunteer of the Year

27 May 2018. Today is the last day of National Volunteer Week. The week has been a perfect opportunity to highlight and appreciate the amazing voluntary work we have here at Able Australia. For the final day of the National Volunteer Week, we’d like to introduce one of our volunteers, [...]

Two Yarra Trams staff, Able client Cathy Staughton and another artist standing in front of a Yarra Trams tram.
Able’s Cathy Staughton Selected To Feature Art On Melbourne Tram

22 May 2018. As part of the inaugural 2018 Yarra Trams Community Partnerships program in Victoria, Able client Cathy Staughton was given the honour of having her artwork featured on one of Melbourne’s trams. Through a partnership between Yarra Trams and Arts Project Australia, Cathy is one of two artists [...]

Able client Harald and Peter Roberts in a Skyliner car
Targa Tasmania Car Visits Able Australia Launceston

18 May 2018. Harald Tanner has primarily spoken of two subjects since joining Able Australia’s Young Adult Program last year – sports cars and Doctor Who. While he has plans to build his own Tardis, the 22-year-old had the opportunity to explore his other passion further on Friday as a 2018 Targa Tasmania car visited Able Australia’s Launceston office. [...]

A group of people at the 2018 Able Australia Deafblind Camp.
2018 Deafblind Camp Update

16 April 2018. On Friday 23 March, more than 45 people with deafblindness from across the country made their way to PGL Campaspe Downs near Woodend in country Victoria for the 18th Annual Deafblind Camp. As with previous camps, this annual event provided plenty of opportunities for participants to relax, socialise and take [...]

Members of Able Australia and National Australia Bank (NAB)
Able Australia Clients Share Stories of Digital Accessibility

15 March 2018. Able Australia clients, Steve Ripley and Paola Avila, were recently invited to share their personal stories of digital accessibility with almost 200 NAB staff working in Melbourne and Sydney. Their presentations formed part of an ongoing series run by NAB designed to enhance their workforce’s awareness and [...]

Telehealth ABC Radio Hobart Interview

ABC Radio Hobart – Telehealth Interview with Able’s Bill Iverach [...]

Three men on bikes in front of an Able Australia bus
Program Helps To Build ‘Wheelie’ Positive Futures

26 February 2018. Young kids from the Beaudesert region in the Gold Coast hinterland of Queensland are learning some ‘wheelie’ good skills from a unique program which teaches them about bicycle mechanics and maintenance. To read the full article featured in The Queensland Times, click here. [...]

deaf blind services
Deafblind Awareness Week Celebration

Celebrating Deafblind Awareness Week (24 – 30 June) with an event at Ross House in Melbourne! Date: 19 June Time: 12pm – 4pm Location: Ross House Level 4, Room Hayden Raysmith 247-252 Flinders Lane Melbourne, Victoria [...]

Launching Our First Research Plan

Able Australia’s is thrilled to announce the launch of our first research plan created by our Centre of Excellence – Deafblind team. People with deafblindness, their families, service providers and advocates took part in developing this three year plan. We look forward to working with you on research to improve [...]

Jonathon’s new found love of cooking

Meet Jonathon! Jonathon loves cooking. He recently made pancakes from scratch on his own for the first time. He was so proud of his delicious creation and so was Michael, his housemate, who thanked him for the pancakes. “Jonathan was so chuffed he came out immediately and told me! Huge [...]

Ability to Create Exhibition in Tasmania

Able Australia’s South Tassie clients and staff recently supported and attended the Ability to Create event in Hobart. This event held from 27 to 29 July is an all-ability feast for the senses which occupies the first floor of the Hobart Town Hall. Aaron, George, Craig, Danny, Belinda, Eric, Steve [...]

Come along to our Seniors Expo

Come along to our Seniors Expo in Ipswich on October 18! The Seniors Expo is an initiative of Able Australia that aims to provide opportunities for local seniors to participate in group activities, information sharing and connect with the community in the region. The expo will include a range of [...]

Able attended the 18th Deafblind International World Conference in Canada

Our CEO Lynette McKeown and Meredith Prain (she/her) PhD, National Head of Centre of Excellence – Deafblind are attending the 18th Deafblind International World Conference in Ottawa, Canada! Deafblind International World Conference is a comprehensive 4-day educational program and pre event Board and Network meetings. This year’s theme is Global [...]

Supported Independent Living NDIS
Retention Challenge

We are excited to have collaborated with RMIT University’s Workforce Innovation and Development Institute and Yooralla in research to gain an understanding on the retention of new disability support workers. This applied research project investigated the experience of 50 Disability Support Workers who had worked at Able Australia and Yooralla [...]

Visit us at the Ipswich Fresh Futures Market

Visit us at the Ipswich Fresh Futures Market on 6 September! This event dedicated to showcasing opportunities for people living with a disability. Our Able Australia Queensland team will have a stall at the event where you can ask us any questions you may have, and have the chance to [...]

Karen reaching her goals

Meet Karen! About 12 years ago, Karen suffered a severe stroke that paralysed the left side of her body and affected her brain functionality including sight and speech. Karen was told by doctors that she would never walk again. With the support of Able Australia staff, Karen has defeated the [...]

Making dreams come true for Jonathon, Stewart, Ron, Francis and Colin

On a beautiful sunny winter’s morning, Jonathon, Stewart, Ron, Francis and Colin made the journey to Richmond’s training ground at the Swinburne Centre, also known as Punt Road Oval. Jonathon, Stewart, Ron, Francis and Colin were very excited to meet Richmond players, Trent Cotchin and Noah Balta in person and [...]

Day on the Bay

After a delay of four years due to Covid, we recently held our annual Day On The Bay (previously known as Able On The Bay) on June 22 2023. Held in collaboration with Deafblind Victoria (DBV), the event was attended by 80 people who are deafblind and their supports. Able [...]

Peter-Reilly
New Chair of the Able Australia Board

Changes to Board of Directors We would like to announce that Peter Reilly OAM has recently stepped down from his position as Chair of the Able Australia Board of Directors, and thank him for his service. Peter has served Able Australia on the Board, as both Chair and Treasurer, over [...]

Sensory exhibition makes science accessible for blind and low-vision audiences

The Monash Sensory Science Exhibition – Autoimmunity is a free sensory exhibition curated specifically for blind, low-vision and diverse needs audiences of all ages and science literacies. Happening on Friday June 30, participants are invited to come along and explore eight autoimmune diseases through multi-sensory, multi-modal artworks and tactile displays. [...]

Deafblind Rec Program visits the Collingwood Farm

On 27 April, participants of our Deafblind Recreation Program, along with their supports went to the Collingwood Children’s Farm! Able Australia’s Deafblind Rec Program is a 12-month program for clients who use our deafblind services and the wider deafblind community via Deafblind Victoria. We also extended the invitation to the [...]

National Volunteer Week Celebrations

National Volunteer Week is Australia’s largest annual celebration of volunteers and will be held on 15 – 21 May 2023. National Volunteer Week 2023 is a celebration of our power to drive change and ensure volunteering is inclusive of all members of the Australian community. To say thank you, we took [...]

Herbert Smith Freehills Event – Experiencing Art in a New Way

On 11 May 2023, Able Australia had the pleasure of inviting Herbert Smith Freehills staff to experience art with a new perspective at their lunch event. We had four interactive stands on offer for Herbert Smith Freehills staff to engage in. Able’s Creative Art Therapist, Helena, held a stand all [...]

Support a Local Deafblind Artist

Joe Monteleone, Able Australia client and accomplished artist created this magnificent linocut artwork of Flinders Street Station. Joe is deafblind, and has Ushers Syndrome type 1. During the day Joe experiences tunnel vision, and at night, he has no vision at all. Joe does not let that stop him from [...]

Able Clients Reaching Goals of Independence

Many of Able Australia’s clients have goals of becoming more independent. At Able, we are here to support our clients to reach their personal goals. One way that our clients are achieving this specific goal is by using community request cards. Our Able staff created these cards for our clients [...]

Cooking with Able

With the support of the Brian M. Davis Grant, our Tasmanian clients enjoyed a cultural cooking program. They explored different cultures with cooking classes including safe food handling, and learned the local customs and traditions. This video shares the recipes and experience from our Cuban cooking day! [...]

Jonathon Achieving Huge Goals

On 17 March, Able Australia client, Jonathon reached one of his biggest goals – seeing a film at the cinema. Jonathon attends our Able East Day Service in Melbourne. “Today was a very special day working with Jonathan –  it was a day that we achieved a massive goal” says [...]

Deafblind Technology Project – Come and Try Day

On March 28, we held our second ‘come and try day’ for people with deafblindness and their support networks to come and try different technologies. The event was held at our Northcote Day Service in our Tech Room. We had a broad range of high and low technology devices for [...]

St Patrick’s Day Celebration Event

On Friday March 17, Able Australia’s Day Service in Camberwell successfully hosted a record-breaking crowd at our St Patricks Day event. Clients from our Day Centres and Able supported homes were invited, along with their families and Able staff. This all-day event featured many fun activities for our clients to [...]

The National Disability Insurance Scheme, not yet adequately addressing the inequity in provision of disability services in Australia

The National Disability Insurance Scheme, not yet adequately addressing the inequity in provision of disability services in Australia One of the driving forces behind the ‘Every Australian Counts’ campaign to establish a National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) was the inequity of disability service provision, between States, Territories and regions. Approaching [...]

Julie’s Story

Meet Julie. Julie likes to keep busy throughout the week. “My typical week is interesting and full of activities” says Julie. “I go to a Mozart program on Monday and Wednesday, Hydrotherapy on Tuesday once per fortnight and Community Access with my Support Worker on Fridays”. “Rana supports me to [...]

MAIB Service Provider
Able Australia an approved Motor Accidents Insurance Board Service provider

Able Australia is proud to announce we have been selected as an approved Motor Accidents Insurance Board (MAIB) service provider. As a result, Able will now support MAIB clients with support programs. The MAIB is a Tasmanian Government Enterprise (GBE). The objective of the MAIB is to administer the funding [...]

Our New Seniors Intergen Connections Program

On 31 January, Able Australia hosted our first Intergen Connections session in Raceview. This program is all about seniors spending a couple of hours a morning each week with kindergarten kids, helping them learn and play. Research shows that this time is of huge benefit to both seniors and children. [...]

Michael Takes a Historic Train Trip in Tasmania

Michael is an Able Australia client and attends our Lifestyle Choices program in Tasmania four days a week.  Able’s Lifestyle Choices program includes day programs, outings in the community, travelling as a group to a program, events and day trips.  Michael travelled with a group to Devonport to attend Don [...]

Chief People Officer
Welcome to our new Chief People Officer

We are excited to announce the appointment of our new Chief People Officer Meagan Downie Knowles who joined our team last week. Welcome to #TeamAble Meagan. We asked Meagan a few questions as you will read her energy shines through. What drew you to work at Able? I have spent [...]

Celebrating Terry’s Birthday

Recently, some of our clients living in Able Australia supported homes came together to celebrate Able client Terry’s 71st birthday! The group gathered for a lovely meal and shared some cake. Terry loved his Carlton Polo he was gifted. Able client Phil, who once isolated himself, is now out and [...]

Launching Lasting Letters Program for Seniors

On Friday 20 January Able Australia Services, working with the Scenic Rim Regional Council, launched Lasting Letters program for seniors. Lasting Letters is a fun and free way for Able Australia and the Scenic Rim Regional Council to help reduce social isolation for those over 60 in our community. It [...]

Creative Arts Therapy Group Program is back!

Able Australia’s Creative Arts Therapy Group program is back! Come along to our group program designed to support adults with intellectual disabilities experiencing social isolation. This program includes a range of creative arts such as movement, art, dance and sound as a vehicle to explore social connectedness, build self-confidence, promote [...]

St Kilda Day Out With The Deafblind Community

Bec Swansson, Able Australia’s Deafblind Services manager, has created a 12-month Recreational Program for clients who use our deafblind services and the wider deafblind community via Deafblind Victoria. We also extended the invitation to the deaf/deafblind people who frequent Able’s Day services, as they are part of our deafblind community [...]

Paul’s New Lease On Life in Tasmania

For over 15 years we have been providing disability support services in Tasmania. We pride ourselves on delivering better days, every day with and for our clients. Paul is one of our clients in Tasmania. Before joining Able, Paul lived in a nursing home. In the nursing home, Paul was [...]

Christmas End Of Year Party For Our VIC Day Service Clients

On Wednesday 14, our Able East and North clients had their end of year party. Staff and clients had a great day filled with music, presents, a BBQ, snacks and even a visit from Santa! You may also be interested in… [...]

Adventure Cruise For Our Tasmanian Clients

On 25 November, clients of our Young Adult Program in Tasmania went on a 50 minute Cataract Gorge Adventure Cruise along the Gorge and Tamar River! This experience was possible through the Brian M Davis Grant. Clients learnt the history of Launceston’s Seaport, Kings Wharf, heritage properties and the Cataract Gorge. As part [...]

We Attended the Melbourne Disability Expo

The Able team had a booth at the Melbourne Disability Expo on the 25 and 26 November 2022. The Melbourne Disability Expo links people with a disability with hundreds of product and service providers as well as presenting a range of informative and interactive presentations delivered by industry experts.   [...]

Halloween Disco Party For Our Clients

On 28 October, we held a Halloween disco party for our clients at our Northcote day centre!   Our clients and staff gathered together in spooky costumes to celebrate Halloween. Clients and staff had a great day, enjoying art activities and morning tea!   You may also be interested in… [...]

John and Greg’s Holiday

Our clients John and Greg recently enjoyed a fun-filled holiday to Phillip Island with the support of their Able disability support workers!   They enjoyed going to Panny’s Chocolate Factory, going to the beach, shopping, feeding the animals and attending the Artic Discovery Centre at the Nobbies.   You may [...]

Able Art 2022
Able Art 2022

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Phillip Meets His Favourite Band, KISS

Meet Phillip! Able Australia client, Phillip is a huge fan of the band KISS. Our Able House Manager, Claire, ran around last minute to find tickets so that Phillip could go to the KISS concert! Claire also organised for Phillip to go to the airport to meet KISS as they landed [...]

10 Year Anniversary of Ipswich Community Aid

1 November 2022 will mark the 10 year anniversary of when Ipswich Community Aid became a part of Able Australia! The Ipswich Community Aid started in 1974 in the wake of the flooding across the region. The Aid started small by supporting the community to rebuild, and eventually grew to [...]

Celebrating Seniors Month – Seniors Expo 2022

October is Seniors Month! Seniors Month Seniors Month provides opportunities to promote positive community attitudes towards older people and ageing, facilitate community participation, and enhance community connections. To celebrate our wonderful seniors, Able Australia, in partnership with the City of Ipswich, Queensland Government and Queensland Seniors Month, hosted a Seniors [...]

Meet John!

Meet John! John lived in an Able supported home in Melbourne. John has many hobbies and activities he loves. John enjoys cooking, swimming, riding his electronic scooter around the neighbourhood, arts and crafts, playing cards and board games, puzzles on his iPad and bowling. John and his housemate also went [...]

AFL Grand Final BBQ and Game Day

On Wednesday 21 September, we held an AFL Grand Final day for our clients! We held the event at one of our Able East Day Service site. All our day service clients were invited to attend. The Able Australia team organised a BBQ lunch, drinks and games for our clients [...]

New Homes Being Built

On Friday 26 August, we were delighted to have The Hon. Colin Brooks, Victorian Minister for Disability, Ageing and Caring and The Hon. Anthony Carbines, Victorian Member for Ivanhoe visit one of our Able Australia supported homes in Heidelberg Heights. The Ministers met four of our Able clients and staff [...]

Able Comm Guide Training Days

On the 29 and 20 August 2022, we held a two-day communication guide training this week at Able Australia National Office. Trainers were Dr Meredith Prain, Heather Lawson, Bronwen Scott, Dennis Witcombe. Trainees learnt about the role of the commguide, communication strategies, methods and techniques, and how to safely and [...]

Able Game’s Day

In honour of The Commonwealth Games, we hosted a Game Day for our clients at one of our Able Australia Day Services. This included activities such as aqua aerobics, basketball tournaments, soccer matches and many other fun activities. There was also a welcome parade where everyone wore their t-shirt they [...]

Theo’s Achievements

Meet Theo! Theo is an Able Australia client who frequently attends our Day Service. Previously, Theo didn’t engage in many community activity prior to COVID-19. However, with some help from his Able support workers, Theo is now thriving in the community and engaging in daily activities of his choosing such [...]

Christmas in July for our Senior Clients!

Our Queensland team hosted a lovely Christmas in July event in Ipswich on Tuesday 26 July. With over 100 clients in attendance, it was a great way to connect after a tough few years with COVID. Our clients had a jolly good time with entertainment, festive games and a fabulous [...]

Tech Smart Seniors Expo

The Tech Smart Seniors Expo was a very successful partnership between Able Australia and STAR Community Services. The key focus of the expo was to invite seniors to get first-hand information on technology products and services available in their local area that can help maintain their independence and enhance social connections.  We [...]

Supported Independent Living
Able Australia is expanding its SIL Service offering

Able Australia is pleased to announce that 10 Supported Independent Living Services have been transitioned from Melbourne City Mission (MCM) to Able, as of 11 July 2022. As part of this, Able has welcomed approximately 40 participants and almost 100 staff into the Able Community. MCM approached Able to partner [...]

Calling out for Volunteers – support seniors, meet new people and be recognised for your commitment

Do you enjoy being out in the community and meeting new people? Are you passionate and caring? Join our events team who run local events for seniors to prevent social isolation. This includes safety seminars, expos, workshops, exercise sessions and a variety of diverse community events. Help us engage and [...]

Rebecca Volunteering Achievements

In honour of Volunteer Week (16-22 May 2022), we would love to share an inspiring story about our client, Rebecca. Rebecca is 25 years old and has been volunteering at the local Salvos store for the past 4 months. Able staff have supported Rebecca to get workplace experience and try [...]

Volunteer Week 2022 – Quotes from our Volunteers

From May 16 – 22 is National Volunteer Week. National Volunteer Week (NVW) is Australia’s largest annual celebration of volunteering, and is held from 16 – 22 May 2022. At Able, we have around 120 amazing volunteers who give up their time to support vulnerable members of the community in [...]

Vale John Finch, first CEO of Able Australia

It is with sadness that we wish to announce the passing of Mr John Finch. John Finch was the first CEO of Able Australia, formerly known as The Deafblind Association, serving from 1985 – 2002. John also served as a Committee Member of The Australian Deafblind Council from 1993 – [...]

Positive Behaviour Support Success

Clients with complex needs and multiple diagnoses often present with behaviour support needs, after putting themselves or others at risk of harm. We believe that these clients need a different approach in supporting them to live their best lives. Positive Behaviour Support is a well evidenced practice that has been [...]

Easter Morning Tea for our Senior Clients

To celebrate Easter 2022, our seniors in Queensland enjoyed a lovely morning tea. The morning tea included some great music and craft activities. To keep things fun, everyone had the opportunity to make an Easter bonnet. The seniors each got their own bonnet which they could decorate with all sorts [...]

Eddie Keir Award 2021 Recipient

Last year, Dr Meredith Prain and her Centre of Excellence – Deafblind team were awarded the inaugural Eddie Keir Award for their Deafblind Webinar Series. We weren’t able to present Meredith with her award at the time due to COVID restrictions. Fortunately, Di Keir, Eddie Keir’s widow and their granddaughter [...]

Join Our ‘Come and Try’ Deafblind Tech Day

Able Australia ishosting a ‘Come and Try’ Day at our Northcote Tech Hub! This is a great chance to try mainstream and assistive technologies accessible to people with deafblindness. You will have the chance to try lots of smart assistive technology such as Smart glasses Technology to assist in the [...]

Craig’s Impressive Woodwork Creations

Craig has been attending the Moonah Men’s Shed in Tasmania for the past 3 years. Over those 3 years, Craig has worked on lots of different projects. “I like to design my own projects and work out what materials and measurements I will need, I have used most of the [...]

A man with low vision and a woman wearing reading glasses sit at a table in a library. A book is on the table in front of them. The woman is assisting the man to read braile.
The National Disability Insurance Scheme, not yet adequately addressing the inequity in provision of disability services in Australia

  By Dr. Meredith Prain, National Head of Research and Centre of Excellence – Deafblind, Able Australia. One of the driving forces behind the ‘Every Australian Counts’ campaign to establish a National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) was the inequity of disability service provision, between States, Territories and regions. Approaching its [...]

Lynette McKeown new CEO Able Australia
Able Australia CEO appointed

Able Australia Board Chair, Peter Reilly OAM announces Lynette McKeown has been appointed CEO of Able Australia. Lynette comes into this role having held a series of executive positions within Able, most recently as Chief Operating Officer. Prior to joining Able Australia, Lynette held senior roles at Monash Health here [...]

Group Art Projects

Each year Able Australia hosts our annual art exhibition – Able Art. Able Art is one way that we celebrate and share the incredible talents and achievements of our clients. In last year’s exhibition, we had two masterpieces that were created in a group effort, which was so wonderful to [...]

Exciting Programs for our Seniors Clients in Queensland

Our seniors community in Queensland have been taking part in some fun and exciting programs recently. These programs are a great way for seniors to socialise, remain active and stay engaged with the local community. Cake Cuppa Connect is a fun program brought to our seniors from Karyn at Therapigs. [...]

Christmas Presents for Clients

For Christmas last year, our Able residential support staff wanted to make sure our clients had the best Christmas possible. 2021 was such a challenging year for our clients because there was so much change and instability. It was so nice to finish the year off on a high. Eric [...]

Welcoming Submissions for Senior Stories 2022 Book

We are excited to announce that we will be creating our third edition of Senior Stories. Seniors Stories is a compilation of stories written by our senior clients within the Queensland Community. Telling stories is one of the most powerful means we have to influence, teach and inspire. Our stories [...]

Kate MacRae
Announcement from Able Australia Board Chair

Able Australia’s Board Chair, Peter Reilly OAM announces the following [...]

Our Queensland Team End of Year Celebrations

2021 was a challenging year for all. To celebrate the triumphs and enjoy the festive season, our Able Australia team at our Jimboomba site in Queensland went Zone Bowling! Staff and volunteers were able let off some steam and enjoy gathering together with some friendly competition. Congratulations to first place [...]

Able Art Exhibition 2021

Each year, Able Australia hosts Able Art – an event that showcases the incredible art that our clients with disability create. Able Art is a weeklong event that coincides with 3 December – International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD). IDPwD aims to increase public awareness, understanding, and acceptance of [...]

Meet Ellice – Our Volunteer Who Enriches the Loves of Our Senior Clients

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Able Australia Collaboration with Swinburne University to Improve Accessibility for People with Deafblindness

Have you ever noticed how much you are using technology in your day-to-day life to make things easier? Unfortunately, access to mainstream technologies that we use everyday is not yet as available for people with deafblindness. To combat this, Able Australia have collaborated with Swinburne University to better understand the [...]

Our Queensland Team Helping Spread Christmas Joy

Every year, our Queensland team put together 100 food and toy hampers which are provided to families and individuals who are experiencing financial distress. We want to ensure that everyone has a merry Christmas, no matter their circumstances. For the last 5 years, McAuley College have assisted us with a [...]

Seniors Expo 2021

To continue the Seniors Month celebrations, we held a Seniors Expo for our senior clients in Queensland. At the expo, there were 42 exhibitors, craft activities, pet therapy, barnyard babies, the Ipswich Veteran and Vintage car club with a vehicle display, plant Q&A, an exercise demonstration, a multicultural performance by [...]

Launching Seniors Stories Book

On Monday 25 October 2021, we launched our second release of our Seniors Stories. Seniors Stories is a compilation of over 100 stories written by our senior clients within the Queensland Community. Our Queensland team held a special book launch to celebrate everyone who contributed in creating this beautiful collection [...]

Positive Behaviour Support
Positive Behaviour Support launches in Queensland

We are excited to announce we are expanding our Positive Behaviour Support service to Queensland. Our Positive Behaviour Support Practitioner Ashley has moved from Melbourne up to Queensland. We sat down with Ash to ask him a few questions about Positive Behaviour Support. How do you assist our clients? By [...]

Our Clients Explore Their Passions By Volunteering

Clients Eric and Craig love to cook and help others! So over the past few months, Able staff have been supporting Eric and Craig to attend the Gagebrook Community Centre to participate in their Fast Foodies program. The Fast Foodies program is run by volunteers who cook meals, relishes, jams [...]

Volunteers Bringing Companionship To Our Senior Residents

At Able Australia, we continue enrich the quality of life of residents of aged care homes who are socially isolated or lonely through our Community Visitors Scheme (CVS). It also helps establish links between people living in aged care homes and their local community. Trish (in the image below to [...]

A Special Surprise For Our Staff For R U OK Day

In light of R U OK Day on 9 September, Able Australia sent each of our 730 staff around Australia a special care pack. We used the care packs as an opportunity for our people leaders to check in with staff about their mental wellbeing, which is especially important during [...]

Queensland Vaccination Hub

On Tuesday the 7th of September, we opened our Lowood site as a COVID-19 vaccination hub for the second time. In collaboration with Aspen Medical, this vaccination hub brings the vaccine to our clients, staff, and community members in South East Queensland. Our Able Queensland team also arranged with those [...]

Our New Food Pantry Vehicle

We are so pleased and appreciative to acquire a new Able branded Food Services Vehicle! This vehicle represents the purchase of a program specific vehicle, for collecting grocery products from Food Bank and Second Bite Coles Supermarkets, as well as other suppliers including Woolworths and Aldi. These products are then [...]

Yarn Bombing for Deafblind Awareness 2021

In Australia, Deafblind Awareness Week was celebrated from the 21st – 27th June this year. The global initiative for Deafblind Awareness Week 2021 was yarn bombing. This is a form of street art where knitted or crocheted squares adorn an object in a public space. Why Yarn Bombing? Yarn bombing [...]

Able Clients Attend Equine Program in Tasmania

Recently in May, clients from our Lifestyle Choices and Young Adults program in Tasmania attended the Equine Program! This program was set up by Rebecca from Reclink Northern Tasmania, and is open for all members of the community to join in on the fun. Our clients had the opportunity to [...]

Able Community Project Manager wins Australian Road Safety Award!

Congratulations Jessy Byrnes and the Queensland Community Services team. Because of Jessy’s incredible work, we are proud to announce that Able, the Ipswich Police District Crime Prevention Unit and Neighbourhood Watch Australasia were successful in winning an Australian Road Safety Award for the Seniors Road Trip to Road Safety Project [...]

Become a Deafblind Communication Guide!

Deafblind Communication Guide Training Program 2021 Able Australia is looking for individuals who are fluent in Auslan and have a positive attitude and empathy to take part in a Deafblind Communication Guide training program. Deafblind Communication Guides provide direct one to one support to people who are deafblind. They assist [...]

Seniors Safety & Wellbeing Seminar

On the 15th of June 2021, Able Australia held a Seniors Safety & Wellbeing Seminar for our Queensland clients to help spread awareness of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. This day aims to raise awareness of elder abuse, which is any act which causes harm to an older person and [...]

Able Clients Unique Art

Meet Able client, Paul! Paul is an artist who lives in Tasmania and specialises in creating beautiful handmade rugs. Each one of these colourful, richly textured rugs are the product of up to 100 hours of work. Using a tool called a ‘Latch Hook’, which is similar to a crochet [...]

Events For Our Incredible Volunteers

On May 19 2021, during National Volunteers Week our team in Queensland hosted a volunteer open day. The event aimed to encourage more people to get involved in volunteering and give back to the community. The event was a great success with the Ipswich SES and Community Radio Station River [...]

Saying Goodbye to Long-Standing Donor, Marion Jennings

It is with great sadness that we say our last goodbyes to long-standing Able supporter, Miss Marion Jennings. Miss Jennings sadly passed away last year. She had been donating to Able Australia since 2001, contributing greatly to our work to support people with disability to live the life they choose. [...]

Celebrating our Volunteers – Meet Trish

National Volunteer Week (NVW) is Australia’s largest annual celebration for volunteers. From Monday 17- 23 May 2021, NVW celebrates the significant positive contribution of Australia’s volunteers. Able Australia are so grateful to all our incredible volunteers who give up their time to help vulnerable people within the community. Our volunteers are vital to [...]

Karen’s Incredible Story

Karen used to work in Marketing and Communications and was an executive member of her team. She loved her job, as it allowed her to travel the country as she chased the ultimate job. Almost 10 years ago, Karen suffered a severe stroke that paralysed the left side of her [...]

Volunteer Open Day Event

  Are you interested in giving back to the community? Become a volunteer at Able Australia and help support vulnerable people within the community in South East Queensland! We are hosting a Volunteer Open Day Event in Queensland in light of National Volunteer Week coming up soon. If you are [...]

Living Independently in Kingston

We are so excited about this wonderful article featured in the Kingsborough Chronicle about our client, Paul, and his experience getting back into the community with Able Australia supports! Paul used to live in a nursing home in Tasmania. In the nursing home, Paul was quiet and didn’t get much [...]

Disability Support Worker Spotlight – Siam

At Able Australia, we have over 600 staff and 200 volunteers who work tirelessly to provide our clients the highest quality of support and continuously seek to improve the consistency of our service delivery. We are so grateful for our amazing staff who embody our values of trust, respect, excellence [...]

Peter Reilly at Government House to receiving his Order of Australia medal
Congratulations Able Board Treasurer, Peter Reilly OAM

Able Australia’s Board Treasurer, Peter Reilly was awarded an Order of Australia as part of this year’s Australia Day Honours list and received his medal from Victoria’s Governor General The Hon. Linda Dessau AC at Government House last week. Peter’s inclusion in this year’s Australia Day Honours list recognises his [...]

In Loving Memory of Able Donor, Elizabeth

It is with immense sadness that we announce the passing of long-standing Able supporter, Miss Elizabeth Don McConnan. Elizabeth touched the lives of so many, and she will be dearly missed. Elizabeth sadly passed away on 26 August 2018. Passionate about doing her bit to support people with disability to [...]

Donors Bringing Christmas Joy to Our Clients

Even though Christmas 2020 was very different compared to previous years, we still wanted to make sure our clients had a fun festive day filled with joy and gifts! We called out to our donors last year to help us purchase Christmas presents for our clients living in Able supported [...]

Dual Sensory Impairment in the aging client

Able Australia’s Dr Meredith Prain, National Head of Research and Centre of Excellence – Deafblind together with Dr Bronwen Scott, Orientation and Mobility Specialist discuss dual sensory impairment in the aging client in Audiology Now. Deafblindness is “a unique and isolating sensory disability resulting from the combination of both hearing [...]

Animal Farm in Tasmania Giving Our Clients A New Experience

While many of us may be familiar with service dogs, a mum in Tasmania has thought outside the square to provide a different array of service animals for her son who is a wheelchair user and other clients in Able’s Tasmanian community and beyond. She started with a cow and [...]