Every Australian Counts is the grassroots campaign that fought for the introduction of the National Disability Insurance Scheme – and won. Every Australian Counts is made up of hundreds of thousands of people with disabilities, families, carers, and those who work to support them. These people came together to fight for a fair go for people with disability in Australia.
Since its inception, the NDIS has undergone significant developments, continually refining its processes to better cater to the diverse needs of individuals with disabilities. It harnesses the voices of people with a disability to ensure it continues to foster inclusivity and independence for countless Australians.
The NDIS was introduced in Australia in 2013 and is a revolutionary social reform, aiming to empower people with disabilities by providing them with greater choice and control over their support services. At the end of 2024, nearly 700,000 Australians, and over 150,000 Victorians with disabilities are being supported by the NDIS to live the life they choose.
Every Australian Counts is the grassroots campaign that fought for the introduction of the National Disability Insurance Scheme – and won. Every Australian Counts is made up of hundreds of thousands of people with disabilities, families, carers, and those who work to support them. These people came together to fight for a fair go for people with disability in Australia.
Through NDIS, individuals gain access to a range of services that facilitate community engagement. This not only enhances social inclusion but also contributes to the overall well-being of participants.
NDIS is not just about providing support; it’s about facilitating independence. By offering support tailored to individual needs, the NDIS empowers participants to take control of their lives, build individual capacities and pursue their goals.
Extended Families began supporting children with disabilities in 1975, through a volunteer service called The Foster Grandparents Scheme. Over the years, our services adapted and changes with community need. The introduction of the NDIS called for considerable transformation – and a large and successful expansion of services. Our journey is fueled by our vision where all people with disabilities and their families experience full community inclusion and are empowered, strong, resilient and connected.
At Extended Families, we believe in a holistic approach to disability support. Our dedicated team works closely with participants and their families to develop support plans that address their unique needs to build connection, inclusion and community.
Our Plan Management service offers multilingual staff to efficiently process your NDIS purchases.
Our expert Support Coordinators empower you to make informed decisions and get the most out of your NDIS Plan.
With our expert Inclusion Support Workers, you take the lead and live the life you choose.
Focussing on Capacity Building, we develop innovative programs to enhance community and inclusion amongst CALD communities.
Supporting children and adults with a disability for over 40 years.
As a not-for-profit charity, you can read all about us in our Annual Reports.
We believe everyone deserves to be part of an inclusive, connected community.
Our values drive every decision we make.
