POSSIBLE
Find your place to call home
Supported Independent Living (SIL) vacancies available now!
With tailored 24/7 support and a range of accessible housing options across the metro area, Adelaide Hills, Port Pirie, Port Lincoln and Murray Bridge, we can help you find your perfect fit.
Your home, your way - explore your options with Cara today.
For details of current and upcoming vacancies, visit www.bit.ly/SILVacancies or scan the QR code.
Welcome to the summer edition of our Cara newsletter - Finding Possible.
As I reflect on my first 12 months as CEO I am humbled and honoured to work with, support and serve our clients, families and staff in this amazing community.
Our work is so important in helping our clients live their best lives and providing supports to empower clients for greater independence.
Cara, has a long and proud history of providing quality supports for clients with diverse and often complex needs. We are working hard, together with families and stakeholders, to navigate NDIS funding challenges and reductions in available supports while not compromising client needs, goals and quality care.
Much more than this, Cara’s unwavering purpose and commitment is to delivering outstanding client outcomes. We will do this by being intentional in how we can work for our clients, work with our clients and find possible ways for our clients to find their own way of supporting others.
There is a real sense of excitement that I hope you will share as you read stories in this edition of how we are creating joy, purpose and belonging for our clients.
At Cara, we know our success and sustainability will be in the little things that make a big difference. We are empowering our staff and clients alike to find ways to unlock potential. At Cara, we find possible!
Feel free to email me direct if you want to hear more, tell us ways we can do better, or just to explore creative ways to support your dear ones finding their own possible.
Lights, camera, action!
Cara’s new brand campaign coming soon
At Cara, we’re proud of the connections we build between our staff and clients, and we’re excited to share that our new brand campaign captures these relationships.
Filming the campaign with Adelaide-based ad agency BAD, was a fun and memorable experience, where staff and clients came together to highlight the unique qualities that set Cara apart.
A big thank you goes out to the stars of our new campaign, our amazing, talented clients - Paul, Megan, Kylie, Nadia, Gregory and Nick - who, after their turn in hair and make-up, shared their vibrant personalities in the studio and were integral to the shoot’s success.
Joining them were an equally enthusiastic team of Cara staff members from all areas of the business, from support workers to our CEO. Our awesome staff took part in bringing the campaign to life, adding to the fun and bringing even more excitement to the set.
The brand campaign is a celebration of what makes Cara stand out. It’s about showcasing how we create an environment where our clients feel a true sense of joy, purpose and belonging, and where our staff are deeply invested in their roles. Through authentic moments captured during filming, we aim to showcase the incredible work we do every day, supporting our clients to find their own possible.
The campaign encapsulates our commitment to our values, ensuring that every person who comes to Cara experiences a warm, welcoming community that celebrates their individuality, dreams and abilities. Whether it’s supporting clients in their journey or empowering staff to grow and thrive, Cara is a place where everyone has an important role to play.
Stay tuned for the campaign launch and join us in celebrating the spirit of Cara – where our clients are truly at the heart of everything we do.
Cara update
The year ahead
2024 proved a busy time at Cara. We were delighted to work alongside clients and families to ensure supports were tailored to people’s needs and helped them achieve their goals. 2025 will be no different. Read on to find out some of what Cara will be working on for the benefit of clients.
Learn, connect and have fun
Whilst we will continue this important work into 2025, Cara will also be focusing on building our sense of community with forums, events and other opportunities for clients, families and their support teams to come together to learn, connect and have fun.
Cara will be facilitating events, big and small, for clients and their carers throughout the year. The Cara team look forward to you joining in!
Ensuring your house is truly home
A key area of focus in 2025 will be supporting people to ensure their house meets their needs and is truly home. Working with our Specialist Disability Accommodation and Community Housing partners and most importantly our clients, we are helping find houses that meet the needs of clients in terms of location and features to maximise the opportunity for people to be part of their local community and maximise their independence. If any clients would like to discuss their housing options, please contact the Cara Connect team on (08) 8243 5000 or via email at connect@cara.org.au
Share with us what you think!
Brand new state-of-the-art homes ready to view!
Looking for a new SDA home in the northern suburbs? These stunning properties offer:
• High Physical Support needs
• On-Site Overnight Assistance (OOA)
• Ensuite bedrooms with adjustable robes
• Spacious, fully furnished living & dining
• Modern accessible kitchen & laundry with applicances included
• Undercover alfresco areas & ongoing garden maintenance
• And so much more!
Available now
Elizabeth Park Available April
Don’t miss out! Visit our website to find out more & make an enquiry today.
Clients and their stakeholders will shortly have the opportunity to provide feedback on Cara’s services and supports through a satisfaction survey. Whilst we always welcome feedback at any time, this survey is an important way Cara will ensure we are meeting clients’ expectations and how we can improve.
NDIS News
Keeping you in the loop
New Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme Announced
The Hon Amanda Rishworth MP will take on the role of Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme following the retirement of the Hon Bill Shorten MP.
As Minister for Social Services, Minister Rishworth has worked in close partnership with Minister Shorten across the disability sector over the past two and a half years and has a strong understanding of the challenges people with disability face.
Cara looks forward to working with Minister Rishworth and her team to advocate for our clients and the broader disability community.
Independent review of music and art supports
Many Cara clients have enjoyed and shared that they have benefited from music and art supports. The NDIA is commissioning an independent review of appropriate NDIS pricing for these supports.
The review will assess:
• Evidence of effectiveness of art and music therapy for people with disability
• Qualifications and registration of music and art practitioners
• Pricing of art and music support.
The Agency has deferred the release of the operational guidance clarifying decision making on therapy supports.
Keeping your NDIS details safe
From 16 December, the National Disabiltity Insurance Agency will ask for more information to check the identity of some participants and representatives who call the Agency’s call centre for help to complete some activities.
The Agency will send a one-time code to the contact details on your record. They will ask you to confirm this code or word with them.
If the Agency can’t send you a code, they will ask you some additional security questions.
They’ll also ask you questions based on information they hold about you.
To save time, please have your NDIS number ready when you phone the NDIA.
The NDIA can be contacted on 1800 800 110.
Changes to the NDIS Law
There were changes announced to the NDIS which started from 3 October 2024.
One of the immediate changes was a new definition of NDIS supports. It means that from 3 October, participants can only spend NDIS funds on NDIS supports.
You can access the list of NDIS supports on the NDIS website ndis.gov.au. We are pleased to confirm that Cara’s supports are included on this list.
A journey of strength & purpose
Lived experience, lasting impact
Nick, 28, spent his early life in government care, starting at the Gilles Plains Assessment Unit at 12 and remaining in care until transitioning to supported independent living with Cara at 18.
Throughout his childhood and teen years, Nick found that he thrived on routine, which helped him adapt to the structure within care. With an Asperger’s diagnosis, he has continued to develop independence and skills after transitioning out of state care, focusing on his personal growth, and building a fulfilling routine in his adult life.
Often the instigator of hugs, many that know Nick know he’s coined the phrase “Hugs with open doors.” Having grown up without the loving and comforting home that many
“Nick is an amazing, resilient, caring young man who is an absolute inspiration to us all!.”
Jessica Berney Senior Client Engagement Coordinator, Cara Connect
experience, he deeply values the role of trust and communication in nurturing meaningful relationships.
Through the encouragement of one of his Cara support workers Nick was introduced to his current workplace - a connection that boosted his confidence and set him on a fulfilling path forward.
Employed at Barossa Enterprises in Nuriootpa, Nick spends two half-days a week in the woodworking shed. He helps dock wood blocks, trim, finish, and create pallets and custom transport boxes. He takes pride in crafting quality products and contributing to the team.
Outside of work, cars are a huge passion of Nick’s - they’re not just a hobby but a favourite pastime that brings him both joy and satisfaction. Working toward his 2025 goal of getting his beloved Falcon back on the road, Nick is often found at his local U-Pull It wreckers yard, tirelessly hunting for and sourcing parts to keep his various cars in top shape.
As a car enthusiast with broad knowledge, working on his cars and helping others with advice gives Nick a strong sense of purpose and fulfillment.
Nick also has a keen interest in mechanics, electronics, and gaming. He hopes to soon have the opportunity to explore a virtual reality (VR) program, which will complement his own purpose-built PC tower that he constructed himself. The VR setup will provide Nick with the chance to create a personalised sensory room - a virtual space tailored to his preferences, offering him a unique, immersive experience that combines his love for technology with his desire for a calming and engaging environment.
As a testament to Nick’s resilience and genuinely compassionate nature, rather than being detered or jaded by his personal experience growing up in state care, he devotes much of his spare time to helping others. With support and encouragement from his Cara team, Nick helps mentor and advise foster kids and young people transitioning out of care through various volunteer and consultancy roles, where he feels he has truly found a sense of belonging.
Working closely with the CREATE Foundation, Nick volunteers to organise large events, seminars, and workshops, while also previously serving as a Lived Experience Consultant as part of the ‘Young Consultancy Program.’
Last year, Nick had the opportunity to sit on the Board for the inaugural Leaving Care Expo, South Australia’s first-ever expo of its kind and is still an active member of the Board. He is also a panel member for the Dame Roma Mitchell Grant, helping to guide grant decisions providing opportunities for young people who are, or have been, in care.
ways. His core support workers - Katrina, Arianne, Lauren, Yen, Pauline, Chloe, and Marilyn (to name a few) - have become more like friends than support workers.
Over time, they’ve developed a strong relationship, built on trust and mutual understanding. Their shared sense of humour and knowledge of Nick’s strengths, likes and dislikes allows them to support him in ways that feel natural and empowering.
Emotional support is one of the most important aspects of Nick’s well-being, as he thrives on meaningful conversations and interactions.
His support workers not only help him maintain a tidy and comfortable home in a way that works for Nick, but more importantly, they provide a safe and supportive environment where he can truly be himself and openly share his thoughts, worries and wins. Beyond their practical support, they play a vital role in Nick’s life, nurturing his continual personal growth.
We are so proud to be counted amongst Nick’s friends as he shows us what is possible when we work together.
Cara Connect
Your
advocates,
coordinators and partners
At Cara Connect, our role is simple - we’re here to make sure you have the right support in place to live life your way.
We take the time to get to know you, your support team, and what’s important to you ensuring you receive the right support to live independently and achieve your goals.
One of the most important things we do is keep you connected, with regular check ins with you, your guardians, and support coordinators, we help make sure your funding and services match your needs. This includes working closely with our internal service teams to make sure the support we provide is just right for you.
We also help with the NDIS process, whether that’s gathering information for a tailored plan review, applying for a Change of Situation, or updating assessments and plans. We’re here to help things run as smoothly as possible.
At the heart of it all, we’re here for you - to listen, to support, and to help you access what you need to live as independently as possible.
At Cara Connect, we are more than just a team - we are your advocates, coordinators, and partners. Our goal is to ensure you receive the support you deserve, empowering you to live the life you choose.
Cara Connect - Connecting you to what’s possible.
Get to know your Cara Connect team Meet Megan
What are your main responsibilities?
I work closely with clients using Short-Term Accommodation and Home and Community Supports.
My role includes managing bookings, preparing price estimates, and ensuring that each stay aligns with the client’s budget and needs.
What is the most rewarding part of your role? Building meaningful relationships with clients and their families.
What do you believe Cara does really well? Cara excels at actively involving our clients in decisions and is passionate about helping them achieve their goals.
What is your favourite...?
Musician: Lana Del Rey – I have been listening to her for as long as I can remember. She is incredibly talented.
Movie: Crazy Stupid Love - I’m a sucker for a rom-com! If you haven’t seen it, I highly recommend it - it will have you in stitches!
Holiday you’ve taken: Moving to Australia in 2019. Coming from rainy Scotland, life in Australia still feels like an adventure. I have met so many extraordinary people, and now I’m lucky to call this beautiful country home.
Meal: Pasta, any day, every day!
Megan is a Client Engagement Coordinator in the Cara Connect Team.
Cancer screening initiative expands
Screening@Cara project: Supporting your health
At Cara, we are committed to helping you, our clients, access healthcare. Our Screening Champions can help you access vital preventative screenings.
Building on the success of last year’s Screening@Cara project, thanks to a new grant from Preventative Health SA, we are excited to grow our Screening Champion Project - an initiative designed to improve access to cervical and bowel screening for people with disability and train more Cara Screening Champions.
A Screening Champion is a trained staff member who is equipped with the knowledge, skills, and resources to support you in accessing screening services.
Last year we trained 24 Screening Champions, who now play a key role in increasing conversations, access to screening, and availability of easy-read educational materials.
For most, accessing cancer screenings can be quite challenging for a multitude of reasons including personal, social, and systemic barriers. Some clients may feel anxious, lack information, or struggle with negative past experiences. Others may face stigma or a lack of support from healthcare providers. The Screening Champion Project is here to break down those barriers and ensure you get the healthcare you deserve.
The new grant will allow us to focus on training more Screening Champions, creating more interactive educational resources and exploring ways we can better support families and those from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) backgrounds. Our goal is to ensure that every client who needs screening has someone advocating for them and helping them navigate the process, every step of the way.
Already, we have seen increased participation in screenings across Cara services, including both clients and staff. Our Screening Champions are driving real change by supporting clients in making informed health choices. With more champions and better resources, we can ensure that even more of our community benefit from early detection and prevention.
At Cara, we find possible - and that includes better health outcomes for our clients.
Your health matters, have you had your screening check yet?
Please contact Michelle and Nisha via email to register your interest in the Screening Champion Project at:
Client corner
Celebrating your achievements
Matthew regains independence
Matthew has regained his independence in eating! After a couple of years of requiring full assistance, Matthew’s Client Services Manager (CSM) and support staff worked closely with his speech therapist to explore the possibility of returning to independent eating.
A monitored trial was conducted to ensure it was safe and achievable, and with the right support in place, Matthew has successfully transitioned back to eating with supervision.
This is a fantastic step towards greater independence, and it wouldn’t have been possible without the dedication of Matthew’s support team. Their advocacy, encouragement, and belief in his abilities have made all the difference.
Well done, Matthew!
At Cara, we celebrate every step towards independence - because every achievement, big or small, matters.
Home for the holidays: Megan’s special Christmas with family
For Megan, the holidays are an especially meaningful time to connect with loved ones. Living 225 km away in Warooka, Megan’s family home is a long journey to make - but one she treasures deeply.
Thanks to the dedication of her Cara support team, Megan was able to spend Christmas with her family. On 24 December, staff drove her to Warooka, ensuring she arrived safely to enjoy the festive season. Megan stayed with her family until 27 December, with staff coordinating both the drop-off and pick-up for the 3-hour drive each way.
To make her stay more comfortable, a lifter was also provided, ensuring Megan’s needs were fully supported during her visit.
Megan’s mum expressed her heartfelt gratitude, sharing how much it meant to have the whole family together for such a special time of the year. For Megan, this trip was a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with cherished family, create joyful memories, strengthen her sense of purpose and deepen her feeling of belonging.
We are proud to support moments like these, ensuring our clients can enjoy meaningful experiences that enhance their lives and relationships.
We work alongside our clients to facilitate change, seek opportunities and provide connection. We delight in our clients’ successes and moments of joy. Here are just a few...
Bryanna’s journey: Resilience and growth
Bryanna joined Cara just over 4 years ago, following a profoundly challenging time in her life. After losing her grandmother, who was her primary caregiver, Bryanna faced significant emotional distress, compounded by stays in multiple mental health units. For someone not yet in her twenties, these experiences were overwhelming.
When Bryanna arrived at Cara, she struggled with both her health and emotions. Cara’s team worked with Bryanna to help her build her health, both physically and mentally, reflecting the nurturing and supportive environment Cara provides.
With encouragement from staff, Bryanna has now mastered many kitchen skills and has blossomed into a confident cook, capable of preparing full meals under guidance. This transformation highlights the dedication of her support team and the power of personalised care.
Through one-on-one support and interventions from allied health and behavioural practitioners, Bryanna has developed techniques to manage her emotions effectively. She now makes thoughtful decisions, embracing greater independence.
When asked about her time at Cara, Bryanna shared: “I like that the staff support me to buy makeup.” This simple statement reflects not only her fondness for cosmetics but also her newfound sense of autonomy and empowerment.
Bryanna’s journey is a testament to her resilience and the life-changing impact of compassionate, individualised support. Her story reminds us of the profound difference a nurturing environment can make in helping someone rebuild and thrive.
Short Term Accommodation (STA)
Your stay, your way
Take a break from everyday life, enjoy new experiences, build your confidence and make new friends.
Short Stays can be just for fun or a great stepping stone to Supported Independent Living (SIL).
Our STA stays are tailored to suit your needs and goals. Get out and about in the local community or relax with fun activities around the home - we’ll create a getaway that’s perfect for you.
To find out more and book your getaway, visit www.bit.ly/CaraSTA or scan the QR code.
Client corner
Celebrating your achievements
A heartfelt celebration: Nathan joins family wedding festivities
It was our honour to support Nathan in building his confidence and ensuring he could fully enjoy his brother’s special day alongside his family.
A heartfelt thank you to Cara team member Georgia, whose dedication and creativity were instrumental in preparing Nathan for the occasion.
Georgia developed personalised resources to help Nathan feel ready and comfortable, making the day a joyful and memorable
New year, new goals
Making waves in hydrotherapy
Sonya is embracing hydrotherapy as part of her 2025 goals, and she’s loving every moment!
Through regular sessions, she’s building muscle strength, increasing physical activity, and working towards a healthier weight - all while enjoying the water.
From the garage to the streets: Nick’s car comeback
Nick’s key goal for 2025 is to get his Falcon back on the road. He has fond memories of driving it, especially during the Jaf’s Last Cruise of the Year 2019, one of SA’s largest car cruises.
Unfortunately, the vehicle has been off the road for about two years due to power steering issues but is now close to being repaired. Can’t wait to see you cruising around, Nick!
Sonya Nick
At Cara, we support our clients to live life the way they choose, helping them to achieve their goals and explore hobbies and interests.
With the new year in full swing, we asked some of our amazing clients what their #1 goal is for 2025...
Sightseeing
in Sydney
Bec’s goal for 2025 is to take a holiday in Sydney, and the Cara team has been working together to make it happen. They have been conducting risk assessments, exploring accommodation options, and researching activities with Bec that she will enjoy.
This trip is more than just a getaway - it’s an opportunity for Bec to explore new experiences, build confidence, and create lasting memories. With support from the local Flight Centre team - who are just as excited to help Bec achieve her goal - the planning is well underway!
Stepping back into rhythm: Sandy’s finding her groove
This year, Sandy is eager to return to dance classes with a fresh sense of enthusiasm and anticipation. In 2024, she had the wonderful opportunity to participate in dance classes, concluding in a performance alongside her peers and in front of her family - an experience she truly cherished. Returning to dance will not only allow Sandy to continue developing her skills but also provide her with a sense of connection, accomplishment, and the joy of self-expression.
A holiday to remember for Kylie
Kylie has set an exciting goal to take a holiday of her choice this year, with support from Cara to help bring her plans to life. Having the opportunity to plan and experience a trip tailored to her interests will give Kylie the chance to explore new surroundings, enjoy meaningful experiences, and create special memories.
With Cara’s support, she can travel with confidence, knowing her needs will be met every step of the way. We look forward to seeing where your heart takes you, Kylie!
Bec
Kylie
Sandy Connect with us on
Amplifii Music Festival is back
Bigger, better and as inclusive as ever!
Cara is proud to be Gold Sponsor of the 2025 Amplifii Music Festival!
We’re thrilled to be part of this incredible event, celebrating music, inclusion, and community!
Get ready for an electrifying night like no other when Amplifii takes over Harts Mill in Port Adelaide, transforming the iconic venue into a vibrant hub of music, dancing, and unforgetable vibes!
Amplifii is more than a festival - it’s an all-inclusive musical extravaganza, designed to be accessible and welcoming for everyone. It’s a movement for inclusion and connection.
Amplifii was born from creator Karren Kelly’s shared passion of music with her son James who lives with autism. She says, “I wanted a way for everyone to come together and celebrate through music in a safe and accessible way.” And the rest is history!
Adelaide’s hottest DJs and bands will be lighting up the main stage, alongside a silent disco, and sensory experiences.
Last year, vibrating Haptic Vests were added to the event. The vests allow you to feel the music as it plays. Connecting wearers to the rhythm in a whole new way, they provide real-time feedback, giving the sensation of the soundwaves, making the experience more immersive and interactive.
The festival promises an all-inclusive celebration for music lovers of all kinds. And if you need a break from the festivities, there are relaxing chill-out sensory zones to recharge in.
Cara is proud to support events that empower possibilities and celebrate diversity. Let’s come together and make this festival a true celebration of connection and creativity!
Event details:
When:
Saturday 15 February, 4.30pm -10.00pm
Where:
Hart’s Mill, Mundy Street, Port Adelaide
Price:
$15 per ticket
50% discount applies to Cara clients and families. Please ask your CSM for Cara’s discount code before booking.
For
Bookings:
Visit: www.bit.ly/Amplifii2025
Or scan the QR code:
Don’t forget to follow Amplifii on Facebook and Instagram to keep up to date on their latest information!
Accessible cafes
Join Cara’s Coffee & Cake Club
We love getting out and about in the community with our clients and have discovered so many wonderful accessible venues!
To share these with you, we’re launching our new Coffee & Cake Club. We invite our clients and families to join us at our favourite accessible cafes for regular social get-togethers.
Starting on 10 February, the events will be held from 11am on the 2nd Monday of each month (when it’s a public holiday it will be the following Monday). Meals and drinks will be at cost/optional, but there will be a few Cara hosted events too.
RSVP each month to clientservices@cara.org.au for booking purposes. Please book early to confirm your spot!
Looking forward to sharing a coffee with you soon.
DATE
10 February
17 March (3rd Monday)
14 April
12 May
16 June (3rd Monday)
LOCATION
Cara location: Magill - RSVP to obtain address
Evergreen Deli, Adelaide Botanic Gardens
Caffe Acqua, 21 Hutchinson St, Mount Barker
Pippo, 67 O’Connell St, North Adelaide
St Louis, Munno Para Shopping Centre, Main North Rd, Smithfield
Recycling for purpose
A sustainable and empowering initiative
In 2024, Cara proudly launched a new initiative at Head Office, Recycling for Purpose. This program introduced designated bins for 10c recyclable items, such as cans, bottles, and milk cartons, conveniently located in our Mezzanine Kitchen and the Downstairs Communal Kitchen.
Each month, Cara clients take on the important task of gathering the recyclables and transporting them to the local recycling depot. This process not only promotes environmental sustainability but also fosters a sense of purpose and belonging, giving our clients a valued social role within their community.
Through this initiative, clients are empowered to actively contribute to a greener tomorrow, building their confidence while making a positive impact on the environment. It’s a win-win for everyone involved!
We encourage all staff and visitors to support this program by recycling 10c items into the designated bins. Your participation helps raise funds for the Cara Community and contributes to the collective goal of environmental responsibility.
Together, we can make a meaningful difference - one bottle, can, or carton at a time!
As a fourth-year student in Disability and Developmental Education, combining her academic knowledge and 4 years delivering support, Georgia is proud to be a loyal Cara employee.
Her skills and hands-on experience empowers her to deliver client-centred support, ensuring high-quality outcomes for the individuals and families Georgia has the pleasure of working with.
One of her greatest joys is witnessing the growth and achievements of the individuals she supports. Recently, Georgia had the privilege of supporting a client during the milestone of his brother’s wedding, being personally invited to share in the family’s celebration. Another recent highlight for Georgia has been assisting clients and families with evidence-based strategies, documentation and support for transitioning
We want to hear from you!
We’re always open to feedback from our valued clients and families. You can get in touch with us on:
(08) 8347 4588
contact@cara.org.au
Faces of Cara Meet Georgia Support Worker
to Supported Independent Living (SIL) from Respite.
“Providing support through this significant and empowering journey has been rewarding and a testament to the importance of wellplanned, person-centred approaches, with the fantastic team I have the pleasure of working alongside.
It has been an honour to see my long-term clients flourish into adulthood, embracing their potential and thriving, with the goals of transitioning into independent living environments. I am deeply committed to supporting individuals with energy, expertise, positivity and a focus on meaningful outcomes that will enhance their long-term independence and quality of life.”
Cara is always on the hunt for dedicated and compassionate Support Workers. Visit www.cara.org.au/careers to find out more.
