Brisbane Source Disability Expo Guide 2026

FREE ENTRY

Brisbane BRISBANE CONVENTION & EXHIBITION CENTRE

3-4 JULY 10AM – 4PM

Win an iPad PAGE 6

FLOORPLAN PAGE 14-15

SENSORY GUIDE PAGE 16

STAGE: FULL PROGRAM PAGE 18-20

Ava

Assistive Technology That Fits You Perfectly At Astris PME, we believe no two people are the same - and neither are their assistive technology needs.

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For Ava, movement is about more than getting from one place to another - it’s about staying connected to the people and moments she loves most. Whether she’s spending time with family, exploring outdoors or enjoying everyday adventures, the right wheelchair helps her move through her world with greater comfort, confidence and participation.

Because great assistive technology isn’t just about mobility. It’s about opportunity, discovery and helping every child reach their potential.

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Showrooms & Experience Centres in Brisbane, Gold Coast and Bundaberg. Free trials!

Paediatric solutions At Etac, we offer state-of-the-art solutions for a wide range of daily needs and care settings, for people at all stages of life. Our products are designed to promote the individual’s abilities and support caregivers in their daily work – through high quality, user-friendly functionality, and by delivering great value over time.

Our paediatric assortment focuses on supporting children’s growth through innovative, adjustable solutions that can be tailored to individual needs to enhance independence, wellbeing, and to address developmental differences.

R82 Flamingo Curo Creating calm, comfortable and dignified hygiene routines The Flamingo Curo is a versatile hygiene chair designed to support dignity and comfort during daily routines like toileting and showering. Its thoughtful design has been developed for smooth and efficient handling, minimising caregiver effort while prioritising child safety. The soft, curved inlays provide a supportive foundation and the chair can be adapted with many different accessories to meet specific needs. Growing with the child, the Flamingo Curo ensures hygiene tasks are managed with ease, flexibility, and respect for the individual.

www.etac-au.com

Win an iPad win

SOURCE

PASSPORT 202

6

Brisbane

Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre

3-4 JULY

SOURCE PASSPORT

Go in the draw to win an iPad - courtesy of Assistive Tech.

Grab your ‘Source Passport’ upon entering the expo.

Go on a scavenger hunt & visit each of the sponsor’s booths to get your passport stamped.

Once all sponsor pages are stamped head back to the Passport desk at Entrance/Exit, complete the Contact info located on the back page and hand to Source staff member who will verify and rip off your contact info page & place into box.

PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY

WELCOME TO

Hi Brisbane!

We’re thrilled to return to beautiful Brisbane for the eighth time. After the tremendous success of last year’s expo, it’s a pleasure to welcome you back for another fantastic event.This year, we’re bringing together 100+ product and service providers, giving families, caregivers and professionals the chance to explore, experience and trial innovative solutions all in one place.

Our expo comes with interactive hubs, including Active Hub, Hush Hub, StyleMe Hub, Street Play Hub, Build Hub and introducing our NEW ‘Hit Hub’ with some Pickle Ball fun and of course, there’s our Stage hosting awesome entertainment from All Abilities Cricket Program, Sensory + emotional regulation by Music Beat Therapy Services, Dance and Dream Big with All Abilities Australia, plus learn some self defence skills and much more – just enough fun without going over the top!

A huge shoutout to the incredible Source team for bringing this event to life, and a heartfelt thank you to our sponsors, exhibitors, volunteers and performers, your support truly makes this inclusive event possible.

So, Brisbane, get ready for a weekend of discovering, trying, connecting and soaking up a whole lot of inspiration.

The Source Disability Expo is all about keeping it fun, welcoming and energising - just like catching up with friends on a great weekend.

Emma x

FOLLOW US FOR ALL THE LATEST UPDATES BEFORE AND DURING THE EXPO

@sourcecoau

@sourcecoau B R I S BA N E E X PO 2 026 7

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More flexibility, less hassle – and it doesn’t cost you anything extra!

Call 1300 05 78 78 or email crew@leapin.com.au to find out more about your options.

Visit leapin.com.au Call us on 1300 05 78 78

QUIET HOURS 10AM – 12PM BOTH DAYS OF EXPO

Key Infomation FIRST AID If you require First Aid assistance, please see security at the hall entrance who will be able to assist, or please find a Source team member and they will call first aid on your behalf.

LOST CHILDREN

DISABILITY TOILETS

If you have become

Can be located inside

separated from a child

at the rear right-hand

accompanying you,

side of the exhibition

please advise security

hall near café. As noted,

at the front of the

temporary accessible

hall, or a Source team

change facilities are

member immediately.

available in the back left-hand corner of the exhibition hall (as marked on the floorplan, pages 14-15).

TOILETS / CHANGE FACILITIES

INFORMATION / ASSISTANCE

Accessible Change facilities

If you require

– thanks to Active Medical,

information or

are located in the back

assistance, please

left-hand corner of the

visit the registration/

exhibition hall (as marked on

information desk at the

the floor plan, pages 14 -15)

main entrance to the event or locate a Source team member to assist.

CATERING Light snacks and a selection of freshly prepared food is available for purchase during expo hours from the onsite Café located at the rear of the exhibition hall.

There are also many cafes and restaurants in and around the Southbank area of

SENSORY HEADSET LOAN

Brisbane.

Should you require the loan of a Sensory Headset these can be located at the hall entrance. Speak to one of our friendly Source team

PAYMENTS

member at the Sensory

Our event will be a

Headset Loan counter, to assist.

cashless event and payments for products within the event can only be made via EFTPOS payments.

10 SO U R CE K I DS .CO M . AU/ D I SA B I LIT Y- E X PO

THE CHANGE THAT IS NEEDED!

Queensland SIL

Supported Independent Living

STR Respite

In-Home Support Services

CP

Community Participation

Why Choose Tibii?

At Tibii-QLD, we offer personalised support tailored to each participant’s needs. Our experienced professionals provide a range of services, including SIL (Supported Independent Living), STR (Short Term Respite), Community Participation, and In-Home Support, which includes personal care, household tasks, and daily living assistance. We ensure consistent and reliable support with familiar faces and embed human rights principles in all our practices, ensuring dignity, respect, and choice for every participant.

The Change That Is Needed!

We treat our participants like family, creating a warm and supportive environment in their own homes.

As a social enterprise, we reinvest profits into enhancing services and supporting the community of people with disabilities.

Choose Tibii for compassionate, reliable, and personalised support. Experience the difference of being part of our caring community.

Promoting positive cultural change Implementing human-centred approach Focus on empowering individuals Social enterprise model

9/67 Depot Street, Banyo, QLD 4014

info@tibii-qld.com.au

1300 736 731

Assistance with personal care Specialist support workers for complex needs Social and community participation Shopping and meal prepration Transportation and daily activity Human rights-based practices

tibii-qld.com.au

Brisbane

Floorplan Brisbane

3-4 JULY

BRISBANE CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION CENTRE

A

B

C

D

E

F

G CAFÉ

D16

HUSH HUB TRIKE HUB

B11

C15

RACE RUNNING HUB

C16

STYLE HUB

V3

G18

A18

A16

B14

STREET HUB

A22 B15

B16

BUILD HUB E17

V2

D20

C11

E14

E16

F18

F17

E15

F15

F16

G17 G16 G15

A15

STAGE

A14

B17

A13

V1

C10

B18

A12

G14

B20

G13

E12 C8

E8

D22

V5

G12

E11

C7

G11 A11 G10 A10 A9

A24

ACTIVE HUB

C21

D8

C24

D5

C5

HIT HUB

E7

A8

G9

F9

G8 G7

A7

G6

A6 A5

B23 B24

C4

D4

D23

F8

C25

A26 B26 B25

E3

C3

D3

F6

G5

F5

G4

F4

D24

F3

A4 A3 A1

G3

A27

D25 B27

C1

E2

E23

A28

G2

E22 V6

D1 D26

E1

E24

G1

E25

ENTRY / EXIT

Sponsors

MALE/FEMALE FACILITIES

BLUE

DISABILITY TOILET

GREEN

PINK

Astris PME

B27

Conni

C5

LiveBig

Etac

A26

Dejay Medical

A24

SHOWBAG SPONSOR

Leap in! FACILITIES MALE/FEMALE

A22

Tibii

D1

Envisage DISABILITY TOILET

14 SO U R CE K I DS .CO M . AU/ D I SA B I LIT Y- E X PO

F18AID FIRST

D25

Assistive TechCHANGING C1ROOM ACCESSIBLE

FIRST AID

ACCESSIBLE CHANGING ROOM

SENSORY HEADSET LOAN SENSORY HEADSET LOAN

Exhibitor

Booth

Exhibitor

Booth

Exhibitor

Booth

AAC Book Builders

G17

Guide Dogs Queensland

E1

F6

H2OT Allied Health

G2

National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)

B18

AbilityMade Orthotics ACE Active Supports

A11

Hanrahan Health

E15

NDSP Plan Managers

D3

Active Medical

D8

HART Sport

C21

Northcott

B14

Healthcare Innovations Australia

C24

Not Boring Supports

A16

Nurse Mates

D26

HECSA

E2

Ohana Plan Managers

A3

iFLY Gold Coast

B20

Paper Cranes

A15

Independent Living Specialists - ILS Kids

F9

Paragon Mobility

C25

Paralympics Australia

A5

Paw Pause

B24

Play Matters Australia

A18

Queensland Centre for Intellectual Disability and Autism Health

A12

All Abilities Australia

B15

Aquatic Mentors

G15

Assistive Tech

C1

Astris PME

B27

At Home Care

D4

Automobility

V1

Inside Out Therapy

F3

Avant Innovations

E22

Interact Australia

E17

Beyond Steps Mentoring & Training

E16

Jack's Butterflies + Sky-High Healthcare

E8

Be You Artistry | Be You Support & Wellbeing

C8 + D22

Kidsafe QLD - Disability Safe Seating Solutions

G3

Blended by Sarah

D24

Raise Your Spirit

C3

Brazier Mobility

V2

Kids That Go Therapies

F17

Reading & Writing Solutions

G8

Bricks and Beyond

D16

Kismet Healthcare

C7

Reliance Caring

E24

Kite Mobility Vehicles

V5

Respite with Linda

G18

Leap in!

A22

Rise Youth

G13

Lifespan Therapies

B25

Sensory Connect

B26

Lightmare Studios

C16

Sensory Enterprises

D20

Little Change Creators

F5

Slater and Gordon Lawyers

C10

LiveBig

D25

Spectronics

D5

Calming Cocoon

A7

CAP Furniture

A1

Centre for Inclusive Supports

A9

Clickability

A13

Conni

C5

Core Assist

E11

CYDA

A6

Madeline Stuart Dance Company

E14

Sport 4 All

G9

Daydream Explorers

G16

Mells Care

G10

Sunrise Peak Psychology and Allied Health

A10

Dejay Medical

A24

MiddleMates

G14

Superior Healthcare

F8

Disability Support Guide

B16

Tailored Disability Solutions

G7

V6

Miranda Kneebone Occupational Therapist

G6

Driving Mobility

TalkiPlay

C15

Early Start Australia

D23

Motion Specialties

E3

G11

Elevate Disability Care

E12

Movement Solutions Physiotherapy

A4

The Kids Matters Community Foundation + Kids Matters Occupational Therapy

Elex Massage Chair

F4

Move Mobility

B11

The Therapy Store

E7

Endeavour Foundation

A27

Music Beat Therapy Services

E25

Tibii

D1

ENVISAGE

F18

My Burrow

A28

G1

My Choice Disability Support

G4

Variety - the Children's Charity of Queensland

A8

Epilepsy Queensland Etac

A26

G12

VDCC All Abilities Cricket

A14

First2Care

C4

My Day My Way: Education & Care

Xavier Children's Support Network

F15

Freedom Motors Australia

V3

My Plan Manager

B23

You and Me OT

C11

Ginga Support Services

B17

NAPA CENTRE

E23

ZipMAE Swimwear

F16

B R I S BA N E E X PO 2 026 15

Brisbane 3-4 JULY

Sensory Guide A A

B B

C C

3-4 JULY

QUIET HOURS 10AM – 12PM BOTH DAYS OF EXPO

D D

E E

F F

G G CAFÉ CAFÉ

D16 D16

HUSH HUSH HUB HUB

TRIKE HUB TRIKE HUB

RACE RUNNING RACEHUB RUNNING HUB

B11 C15 C16 B11 C15 C16

STYLE STYLE HUB HUB

V3 V3

A18 A18

A16 A16 A15 A15 A14 A14 A13 A13 A12 A12

G18 G18

A22 A22

B14 B14

STREET HUB STREET HUB

B15 B16 B15 B16

BUILD HUB E17 E16 BUILD HUB E17 E16

V2 V2

D20 D20

C11 C11

E14 E15 E14 E15

F18 F18

F17 F17

G17 G17

F15 F15

F16 F16

G16 G16

STAGE STAGE V1 V1

B18 B18

B17 C10 B17 C10 B20 B20

C7 C7

C8 C8

D22 D22

E12 E12

E8 E8

E11 E11

V5 V5

G11 G11

A11 A11 A10 A10 A9 A9 A8 A8 A7 A7 A6 A6 A5 A5

ACTIVE ACTIVE HUB HUB

C5 C5

B23 B24 B23 B24

C4 C4

B26 B25 B26 B25

C3 C3

A24 A24

A26 A26

C21 C21

D8 D8

C24 C24

D5 D5

C25 C25

G15 G15 G14 G14 G13 G13 G12 G12

G10 G10

E7 E7

D4 D4

D23 D23

D3 D3

D24 D24

F9 F9

HIT HUB HIT HUB

E3 E3

F8 F8 F3 F3

F4 F4

G9 G9

F6 F6 F5 F5

A4 A4 A3 A3 A1 A1

G8 G8 G7 G7 G6 G6 G5 G5 G4 G4 G3 G3

A27 A27 A28 A28

B27 B27

C1 C1

D1 D1

D25 D25

E2 E2

E23 E22 E23 E22

D26 D26

E1 E1

E24 E25 E24 E25

V6 V6

G2 G2 G1 G1

ENTRY / EXIT ENTRY / EXIT

PERFORMANCE PROGRAM STAGE ZONE

THIS AREA OF THE EXPO MAYBE BRIGHTER

POSSIBLE NOISE IN THESE AREAS

POSSIBLE AROMAS IN THESE AREAS

MALE/FEMALE FACILITIES MALE/FEMALE FACILITIES

LOW VOLUME 10:00AM – 12:00PM

DISABILITY TOILET DISABILITY TOILET

16 SO U R CE K I DS .CO M . AU/ D I SA B I LIT Y- E X PO

FIRST AID FIRST AID

ACCESSIBLE CHANGING ROOM ACCESSIBLE CHANGING ROOM

HIGH VOLUME 12:00PM – 3:00PM For assistance please reach out t o a Source team member or volunteers SENSORY HEADSET LOAN SENSORY HEADSET LOAN

The Hubs

BUILD HUB Step into our Minecraft world and let your imagination run wild in our cool interactive Build Hub space. Dive into a world of blocks and build whatever you imagine, from cool houses to epic castles. Play solo or team up, trade ideas, and show off your awesome creations. The Build Hub will be located at back of hall to the right of the stage and will be open for play during all opening hours of the expo.

Get ready to be entertained! We’ll

STAGE have - All Abilities Cricket Program,

Sensory + emotional regulation by Music Beat Therapy Services, Dance and Dream Big with All Abilities Australia, plus learn some self defence skills and much more. Plus, some of your favourite characters coming to join us. You won’t want to miss out. The Stage is in the centre-back of the hall, and you can check out the full program of entertainment on pages 18-20.

STREET PLAY HUB This is the place to be! So much fun for everyone! Head to the Street Play Hub at back of hall to the left of the stage where there are three interactive areas to choose from. Air Hockey, basketball and cocktail arcade - do them all in any order you like! Open both days of expo.

ACTIVE HUB Come and find out what your body can do in the Active Hub, where you’ll be able to test your balancing, climbing, and jumping skills with a fun soft-fall obstacle course. No matter if you’re 6 or 60, this is sure to be a good time! The Active Hub is located centre left of the hall, where it will be available for play during all opening hours of the expo.

SUPPORTED BY

HIT HUB Head to the brand new ‘Hit Hub’ for some Pickle ball fun!

Grab a paddle, have a hit, connect with others, or join in a relaxed, social game designed so people of all ages, abilities, and experience levels can take part. It’s a welcoming space to try something new, move at your own pace, and enjoy the fun together. Find the Hit Hub on the right-hand side of the hall, open all day, both days of the expo.

HUSH HUB Put on some headphones, kick back on a bean bag and enjoy our Hush Hub. It’s a great place to chill out and enjoy some down time before setting off again to explore the rest of the expo. The Hush Hub will be open on both event days and located at the far back, left of the hall.

STYLE ME HUB Welcome to the Style Me Hub, your new favourite hangout for all things beauty. We’ve combined a Nail Bar, Hair, and Makeup areas into one comfy, chic space where you can unwind, get styled, and leave feeling like your best self.

The Style Me Hub will be located on the far back right side of the hall and open both days of expo.

SENSORY HEADSET LOAN Do you want to dive into the full expo experience without being overstimulated?

We have your ‘ears’ covered!

Speak to one of our friendly Source members at the Sensory Headset Loan counter (front of hall entrance), where you can loan a headset for the duration of your stay. Please drop the headset back on your way out of the expo.

SUPPORTED BY

B R I S BA N E E X PO 2 026 17

The Stage FRIDAY 3 JULY & SATURDAY 4 JULY TIME

SESSION

11:00-11:30AM

All Abilities Cricket program with VDCC

11:30-12:00PM

Nixon meets the Snuggle Pufflings – a gentle activity + storytelling session

12:00-12:45PM

BAM Dance

by IGNITE Services

12:45-1:00PM

Our friends Chase and Marshall from Paw Patrol make a visit!

1:00-1:30PM

This is your brain on music, proudly presented by Music Beat Therapy Services

1:30-2:00PM

Dance + Dream BIG with All Abilities Australia

2:00-2:30PM

Our friends Bluey, and Skye from Paw Patrol make a visit!

2:30-3:00PM

Australia’s leading all-inclusive dance school - Madeline Stuart Dance Company

3:00-3:30PM

Self Defence skills through Capoeira, proudly presented by Ginga Support Services

11:30am – 12:00pm

Nixon meets the Snuggle Pufflings – a gentle activity + storytelling session Step into the magical world of the Snuggle Pufflings – gentle little friends who bring comfort, courage, and joy to every adventure.

Join Nixon as he discovers that kindness and curiosity can lead to the most wonderful friendships.

Creator of The Snuggle Pufflings book series, Laurelle was inspired by her neurodivergent grandchildren to help others navigate big emotions. Using her background in remedial massage and holistic therapies, Laurelle incorporates calming techniques such as mindfulness, breath work and body awareness into the stories.

Join them from 11:30am.

11:00am – 11:30am All Abilities Cricket program with VDCC Ready to step up to the crease and knock some boundaries out of the park? Join Kaz and the crew at the VDCC All Abilities Program for a cricket experience like no other! Whether you're a seasoned pro or just discovering your love for the game, their program welcomes everyone with open arms.

At VDCC they believe cricket is for everyone, regardless of age or ability.

Their inclusive environment ensures that everyone can participate, make friends, and unleash their cricketing skills in a fun and supportive setting.

Come be a part of the vibrant community and discover the joy of cricket!

Join the team at the stage from 11:00am!

18 SO U R CE K I DS .CO M . AU/ D I SA B I LIT Y- E X PO

12:00pm – 12:45pm 12:45pm – 1:00pm

BAM Dance by IGNITE Services Watch the IGNITE performance, and then join in all the fun!

Sing along and dance with our favourite pups from Paw Patrol - Chase and Marshall

BAMDance invites kids of all abilities to learn a fun, easy routine in their interactive session. Everyone’s welcome, come move, groove, and dance with the IGNITE team!

IGNITE support, they dance, they create, and YOU EVOLVE! Igniting all abilities through dance, creative play, and personalised support services for children and adults, they honour every journey with compassion, connection, and joy.

1:00pm – 1:30pm

Limitless. Inclusive. Love.

Join the team at the stage from 12:00pm.

This is your brain on music, proudly presented

by Music Beat Therapy Services “This Is Your Brain on Music” explores the powerful connection between music, the brain, and human wellbeing. Through this interactive experience, discover how music supports communication, emotional regulation, cognitive development, movement, and connection across all ages and abilities.

Proudly presented

by Music Beat Therapy Services - a Brisbane-based business empowering individuals through evidence-based music therapy that supports growth, wellbeing, and meaningful connection in everyday life.

Join them from 1:00pm.

B R I S BA N E E X PO 2 026 19

THE STAGE

1:30pm – 2:00pm Dance + Dream BIG with All Abilities Australia Join the AAA team for an exciting showcase featuring All Abilities Australia’s Jazz and Lyrical Performance, as they perform their upcoming competition routines!

Then stick around afterwards for some fun on the dance floor, with a celebratory dance party led by their fantastic dance teachers and performers.

All Abilities Australia (AAA) is a Brisbane-based not-forprofit organisation and a unique blend of disability service and dance studio. They provide inclusive dance classes and engaging day programs designed to empower people with disabilities through communication, connection, creativity, and community.

Join the team at the stage from 1:30pm.

2:00pm – 2:30pm

3:00pm – 3:30pm

Sing along and dance with our favourites Bluey and Skye

Self Defence skills through Capoeira, proudly presented by Ginga Support Services

2:30pm – 3:00pm

Come and join the Ginga Support crew as they introduce us to Capoeira!

Capoeira combines movement, rhythm, and reaction, making it a fun and engaging way to develop motor coordination, confidence, and social connection for all ages and abilities.

The team at Ginga Support Services brings energy, care, and professionalism to every session, creating a welcoming environment where everyone can participate and progress at their own pace. Through weekly Capoeira classes, each activity is adapted to support individual needs and abilities.

You won’t want to miss this session!!

See them at the stage from 3:00pm.

Australia’s leading all-inclusive dance school Madeline Stuart Dance Company Come dance with us; Madeline Stuart Dance Co is the largest NDIS registered dance school for people with disabilities in Australia.

Join the dance crew to do some Hip hop, jazz and contemporary. We assure you; it will make you smile and put an extra bounce in your step. You may even decide you love it so much you will want to become part of their dance family.

Classes from the Gold Coast to the Sunshine Coast and everywhere in between.

Join the team at the stage from 2:30pm.

2 0 SO U R CE K I DS .CO M . AU/ D I SA B I LIT Y- E X PO

WE WILL BE AT STAND C5 B12 Visit us at stand B12 C5 during the Source Kids Expo to discover the best range of products for kids’ toilet training

www.conni.com.au

Empowering care.

Enabling independence.

Celebrating 40 years of real outcomes. Dejay continues to lead the way in assistive technology-supporting individuals, families and communities across Australia

STAND A24

MULTIPLE LOCATIONS

CONTACT US!

02 9838 8869

dejay.com.au

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO BOOK A FREE TRIAL

Support that empowers you.

Join an ENVISAGE Program today.

ENVISAGE Families is a fully funded, evidence‑informed, peer‑led program that supports parents and caregivers of children aged 0–8 years with developmental concerns, disability or neurodivergence.

ENVISAGE can help you feel more confident supporting your child, empowered to ask questions and feel more prepared for what’s ahead.

How it Works 5 x weekly workshop sessions

REGISTER NOW! Scan to view all available programs or learn more.

Up to 90 mins per workshop Facilitated by a qualified health professional and a parent peer No cost to you. Your child does not need a diagnosis or NDIS plan to participate.

https://envisage.community

Programs available to suit every schedule.

@envisage.community

Online or in person

Day or night

Envisage Australia

ENVISAGE Families Australia is funded by the Australian Government Department of Social Services. Go to dss.gov.au for more information. ENVISAGE has been developed by Australian Catholic University, McMasters University, Murdoch Children’s Research Institute and University of Melbourne.

© ENVISAGE 2026

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Living independently A practical guide to SDA, SIL, ILO, and NDIS supports

ISSUE 47 / WINTER 2026

NDIS UPDATE

W HEN TY H FOeIO TOUrCy TH E i n E Nn o N O Y e v R E E V NSORY E TIDESE SRDTEN GOEGA T OUT CRE ATING A

What the 2026 NDIS refo rms mea n for fam ilie s — and for the sec tor that ser ves the m

32

SO U RCEKI DS .CO M . AU

at here’s a particular ritual I’ve Australian beaches that always found quietly telling. the Families arrive early, read where the waterline, and set up exactly umbrellas up, tide sits. Towels down, water’s edge. And children running to the all, the water is nobody questions it. After go. you where that’s so there, the same way The NDIS has worked set up where the for twelve years. Families ‒ they went funding was. Not recklessly support lived, where the system told them around it. And and they built their lives same. Because service providers did the an uncapped the waterline was real, to those who scheme promising support how much it cost. needed it, regardless of sense. made investment The Mark But on 22 April 2026, Minister Press Club Butler stood at the National in the sector and confirmed what many for some had been watching approach out. Not gently, time. The tide is going us who know and not slowly. Those of

genuinely Thriving Kids that remain produces a that not to whether a person’s disability unresolved ‒ and I say their ability to I think significant reduction in alarm families, but because And, in the time useful than manage day-to-day life. honest information is more the assessment since the announcement, reassurance. Whether services has been named: false the point of tool that will do this work will be free or co-paid at Assessment, the I-CAN Support Needs still being negotiated between is access of Melbourne. the states. developed by the University the Commonwea lth and with complex that tool For families of children assessment The functional is an a child enters needs, the immediate question will determine whether this affect my eligible for the understandable one: does Thriving Kids or remains designed. The child?

NDIS has not yet been explicit on erate The government has been clinical category of “low-to-mod it deserves more diagnostic in exist doesn’t the answer, and I think support needs” Children with construction, airtime than it’s getting. frameworks ‒ it’s a policy disability ‒ and its practical meaning permanent and significant how will depend entirely on children with substantially For families of the tool is built. reduced functional capacity Peak bodies including ‒ remain protected under children with Disability the NDIS. That has not complex needs, Amaze, theNetwork Touch Football has Advocacy changed. No diagnosis the immediate Australia, and the been removed from the Australi a is making question is an Australian Autism Alliance scheme. Autism, cerebral the game truly understandable have all raised this as a palsy, intellectual disability, share all inclusive for kids with serious concern. And I psychosocial disability: one: does this needs that eligible pathways. disabilit ies across that kind of tide remain affect my child? it. Children with ‒ or work by the coast know changing is that are invisible to an assessor so far and so fast What’s reports that pulls back country, kind the family effort, ‒ the a diagnosis alone will no like managed through enormous behind looks . family through the gate. that the ground it eleaves a Granich carry settings, and episodic longer clinical Katherin masked in be demonstrated a different landscape entirely. are the ones most at Functional impact must rather than constant ‒ one thing tool the I want to be clear about Getting alongside it. end of risk of being misclassified. thethe notbe mightisnot football This affected by e I go further. beforeouch The cohort most directly is not just an administrativ right and mind design to significant a comes is eight it is, aged Whatthat first sport the NDIS. the eligibility shift is children detail. It is the reform. scheme the inclusive of who for you are looking or development al whenreshaping deliberate the NDIS, and under with autism For families already on operate child it will for your and how options as having “lowactivity for, is not was designed delay who are assessed the most immediate change providers Hodges and if Gabe Families From 1 forward.But a disability. going and the end with to-moderate support needs”. eligibility ‒ it’s plan values about ofisboth. it, that account do with of children will honest anto anything and community hasdeserve January 2028, this group of fund rollovers. Social Kids ‒ the be progressively to change. be directed toward Thriving participation budgets will have to lth and state-funded “It’s non-contact; you don’t 2026. Unspent Commonwea October new from reduced ‒ rather grins Gabe, the over between plan be fast, you can walk!” foundational supports program funds will no longer roll has Programs Manager Kids Participation Thriving budgets).

National than the NDIS. years (so please, spend your “It’s just so supports, the for Touch Football Australia. promised to offer parenting These changes land before is so engaged.” health, and with welcoming, and everyone navigation, targeted allied eligibility reforms. Families with Sport existing participation Developed in collaboration access to equipment through significant community Syndrome settings. plan should be Inclusion Australia, Down community and education d funding in their child’s Australia, that will generate nt Spectrum individualise an is announceme offer Autism delivering,and not The and is it will ‒ what teammates Australia, What it it now able-bodied reviewing their is the alongside for families All Abilities significant most anxiety began Australia’s What whether the most one of theips. and Football allow for plan, rules Touch Championsh documented, modified to the State at funded whether it’s While access 2028, been provide competitors.

From to have change. families is designed grew into eligibility Program framed around initiative athletes n is localwhat Football non-certified documentatio a grassrootsfrom as departures of three determined beintegrate maximum a the longer fully s and NDIS will no diagnosis. theopportunitie than and pathways through the NDIS. rather in equal used tocompetitions a support need teams inclusive determined play alongside beintellectual tofunctional about It will things and by diagnosis. disabilities, the are significant with physical There with intellectual people for players Gabe is clear: “That’s where specifically, in capacity sport. ‒Introduced Australia and capacity, by functional into the disabilities supported by Sport Inclusion differences stop.”I SSU E 47 | WI N T ER 2026 33 grown rapidly, 2019, the program has Queensland clubs Southern to inclusion is not commitment This with several teams across Storm and University of to who Touch incidental – it is central e It’s just so s three tiers that accommodat Queensland, both of which organisation’ The is.

Football Australia and different disability types welcoming, and continue to compete annually strategic plan is anchored by a purpose Cup. State levels of support. through safe, everyone is so at the Queensland of uniting communities While the national All What makes the program touch football social, and meaningful engaged.

Abilities program officially stand out is its commitment of a game that experiences, and a vision than a with rather launched in 2019, its growing inclusion and to genuine is dynamic, inclusive, earlier by All Abilities foundations were laid years one of our four separate, parallel experience. every play. “Inclusion is teacher fields, under the Gold Coast special education “It runs through athletes play on the same core values,” says Gabe.

Touch with the same Graeme Clancy, who started same match conditions, everything we do.” after one of his on broadcast Football Specialised Inc. referees, and are featured play with him students asked if he could

What this means for families

M . AU 6 6 SO U RCEKI DS .CO

SPORT

child out more or get your If you would like to find ll.com.au/in clusion/allinvolved, visit touchfootba learn local association and abilities to find your in your area. about All Abilities programs

From national champion to local competitions

ships

can work hand that clubs and programs alongside their with disabilities disabilities can compete in hand, giving players ps All Abilities in standard The national championshi and a broader siblings without disabilities pathways across both codes tiers depending becomes a stream runs across three Women’s Open competitions, touch football network of support. The disability, but the rather than on the type and level of national team shared family experience captain of the Australian well beyond the a program program’s reach extends one. “They get to play in Abilities All separate the a ran previously All Abilities says Gabe. “The national stage. In Canberra, that this is not competition together,” nationally – a reminder weekly field.” the beyond players compete in standard but one that sits benefits go far a peripheral initiative, able-bodied players up competitions alongside culture and is The program has also opened at the heart of the sport’s but in the same athletes with – not in a separate stream, unexpected pathways for championed at its highest the program is draws. In South Australia, referees. In as disabilities levels. and pockets being introduced into schools, They get to play The program also works Canberra, for example, in New South as of activity are growing several athletes with a in a competition hard to be as accessible with Wales as well. disability have been trained possible in terms of cost, Cup, held together. The that The annual ACT All Abilities to officiate, an initiative affiliates and clubs keeping is a highlight. and benefits go in October in Canberra, has had some wonderful fees as manageable as they of the year,” Gabe side “It’s my favourite event far beyond occasionally surprising can. For Gabe, the biggest big tunnels in the these form “People athletes says. effects. For autistic barrier is simply awareness, the field.”

Final – it gives you who rulestadium for the Grand in particular, the clear, and her advice to parents know some of our goosebumps. I’ve got to is straightforwa rd: based structure of refereeing are curious but hesitant and they’ll see me – and being in either in athletes over the years, can be a genuine draw Find a way to watch a game, for a high five. It rules, a source of on the field and run over the joy on the charge of enforcing those person or online. “Just is just fantastic.” for you,” she says. great satisfaction. athletes’ faces will sell it the All Abilities change For many participants, has also seen the program Gabe more far well beyond Cup represents something lives in ways that extend Getting involved competition. join the All significant than a day of Abilities program the field. “We’ve had kids Several years on, the All it’s the first a supportive, down. The “For some of the athletes, Abilities program and find is showing no signs of slowing in a big can really thrive,” time they have ever competed after year, the caring niche where they same athletes return year “And they just and sense of competition,” says Gabe.

Grand Final she says. “The confidence smiles get bigger, and the same athletes All Abilities don’t stop smiling!” The is, without belonging they gain through tunnels keep growing. “It Gabe has of their lives too parts the sport return year after year, and other into initiatives on flows doubt, one of the best faces from That ripple begun to recognise familiar Touch Football – school, home, friendships.” has implemented across sign that the sure a – program’s ps the of the championshi says Gabe – effect, she believes, is one that Australia’s 58 -year history,” iated gifts. program is delivering something of the athletes who greatest and most underapprec and watching the faces coming back. genuinely keeps people it is very hard to run out onto that field, pathways genuine with A sport argue with her. commitment More than just a game Touch Football Australia’s ---------of the program in isolation. A One of the special aspects to inclusion does not exist

By Katherine Granich for families League means is the opportunity it creates partnership with Rugby athletes with to play together. Because

in HoFnOeOTY E OeUrCy Tv

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