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The History of Extended Families

Our Origins

Extended Families, has provided quality disability services since the 1970s, creating environments where people with disabilities and their families are included, their opinions are valued, and they are connected to community; ensuring equal access, respect, and opportunities for meaningful participation in all aspects of life.
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) has had a profound impact on transforming the landscape of disability support across Australia and on the services provided by Extended Families.

Our Evolution

As community philosophy shifted in the late 1980s, emphasising care within communities, Extended Families adapted to support children at home. In 2003, we rebranded as “Extended Families Australia,” reflecting our evolving roles and relationships.
Our vision expanded to include diverse volunteers, from retirees to students, ensuring our support stays relevant and inclusive. The journey from The Foster Grandparents Scheme to Extended Families Australia highlights our commitment to meeting the changing needs of the community and families we serve.

Extended Families Today

Extended Families operates as a not-for-profit, governed by a voluntary Committee of Management. Our team includes about 50 office-based employees and 150 community disability support workers.
Offices in Coburg and Box Hill strategically position us to serve the community. Our staff members play diverse roles within the organisation, ranging from leadership and administrative responsibilities, to finance, supervision, NDIS Support Coordination, Plan Management, and Services Facilitation (Coordination of paid 1:1 Support Work). Additionally, we benefit from the contributions of Project Workers and a Volunteer Coordinator, all working in harmony to further our mission.
Extended Families is a vibrant, multidisciplinary community united in our commitment to inclusivity and support. Our team’s diverse skills and experiences are key to creating positive impacts for those we support.

Learn More about Extended Families

Our History

Supporting children and adults with a disability for over 40 years.

Annual Reports

As a not-for-profit charity, you can read all about us in our Annual Reports.

Our Purpose

We believe everyone deserves to be part of an inclusive, connected community.

Our Values

Our values drive every decision we make.

Our Services

Support
Coordination

Support
Workers

Plan
Management

Groups

Other
Services