Indigenous Disability Support

SDA is dedicated to Indigenous disability support, working closely with an Indigenous Advisory Board to ensure culturally safe facilities and care. This approach prioritises cultural safety, acknowledges connection to country, and respects the cultural sensitivities, values, and needs of First Nation people with disabilities.

45%

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people living with disability or long-term health conditions

7.7%

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people living with server or profound disability.

2.1x

More likely to be living with disability than other Australians

5x

More likely to experience mental illness than other Australians

We have partnered with First Nations consultants to develop and refine our cultural framework for SDA homes and SIL services, ensuring community involvement from strategy through to implementation. Our approach addresses the intricate intersections of disability, culture, and housing.

Inclusive and cohesive home environments

Through First Nations community engagement, we customise our support to meet the unique needs and dynamics of each community. We uphold a "no-umbrella approach," valuing the time and commitment required to foster genuine connections and understanding with each community.

Our goal is to ensure that community engagement is meaningful, responsive, and ultimately enhances the well-being and empowerment of participants and their communities.

Indigenous Advisory Board

Jack Gillmer

Jack is a proud Worimi and Biripi architect from the Gathang language group, integrating Country into his architectural narrative. Through First Nations leadership and co-design, he explores cultural paradigms and reveals latent knowledge embedded in Country. Jack fosters connections between cultural systems and the built environment, honouring his cultural obligation to care for Country. Engaged in diverse initiatives including education and community

programs, he is dedicated to revitalising the Gathang Language and sharing ancestral knowledge.

Jack Fletcher

Jack, hailing from the heartland of the Wonnarua people in the Hunter Valley, has a deep connection to Darkinjung Country and was raised in Umina on the NSW Central Coast. As Aboriginal Participation Manager for a prominent Western Sydney infrastructure project, he leads initiatives for Indigenous inclusion and empowerment. Jack focuses on advancing Aboriginal businesses within the construction industry and broader community through employment initiatives and managing Aboriginal Engagement Targets. Dedicated to his culture and driving positive change, he advocates for greater opportunities and prosperity for Aboriginal peoples in Australia.

Tanika Perry

Tanika, a proud Worimi Woman, brings over a decade of experience in Indigenous community engagement, health promotion, and project management. Specializing in project coordination, communication, and stakeholder relations, she leads initiatives supporting First Nation communities with a focus on cultural safety, inclusivity, and respect. Holding a Graduate Diploma of Indigenous Health Promotion from The University of Sydney, Tanika demonstrates a steadfast commitment to Indigenous health nationwide. Guided by a values-driven leadership approach, she empowers teams through collaboration, aiming for meaningful contributions. As an advocate for Indigenous advancement, Tanika champions inclusivity and equity.

Jeffrey Morgan

Jeffrey, a proud Indigenous man on Gadigal land in Sydney, Australia, is a successful mindset, leadership, and wellbeing coach dedicated to transforming lives one habit at a time. With a profound impact on over 650,000 Australians, Jeffrey serves as an ambassador, advocate, and public speaker. His work spans diverse sectors including Indigenous communities, corporations, sporting bodies, corrective services and health institutions. From a challenging upbringing in Redfern to incarceration and profound loss, Jeffrey's journey inspires others to embrace their past, present, and future with resilience and purpose.

Our Support team works with you to develop skills, supporting your day–to–day living

Supporting Disabilities Australia (SDA) will work with you, your family and carers to develop all suitable goals that would facilitate your independence, enhance your emotional and social interaction while identifying and supporting your needs.

SDA Team will:

Increase your independence and support you to make choices to live your life your way

Have open communication with your family, friends and your circle of support network

Be involved in your community activities and events with the support you need

Support you in all aspects of life that you might need support

Supporting Disabilities Australia levels of SDA

To determine your eligibility level, your Support Coordinators will assist you in applying to the NDIS for an assessment of your specific SDA level.

Contact SDA about Indigenous Disability Support