The final chapter in our series celebrating 30 years of Life Without Barriers, a journey shaped by people, purpose and progress.
Image: Photo of staff and carers from the Queensland Foster and Kinship Care Week conference. Six people stand together with a black curtain behind them.
This year, we celebrate three decades of milestones, memories and community spirit. Throughout September and October, we are sharing 30 stories for 30 years.
2022 - 2023: Co-designing rights, respect and connection
Everyone has the right to experience relationships, intimacy and sexual expression. These are part of what makes us human shaping wellbeing, confidence and connection.
In 2022 and 2023, we worked alongside the people we support to strengthen how we uphold these rights through our new Relationships, Intimacy and Sexuality Policy. Co-designed with people with disability, the policy was built on real experiences, insights and values shared by those with lived experience.
"It is very important to have privacy, and everyone should get a say," said Dan.
"Everybody’s got different beliefs, but I reckon no matter what, I think it is important people with disabilities can do whatever they want."
Image: Daniel wearing a blue shirt stands outdoors, smiling.
Across New South Wales, Western Australia, and Victoria, twenty-two people aged 22 to 61 took part in co-design sessions led by Northcott Disability Services and the Sexuality Education Counselling and Consultancy Agency (SECCA), with support from the Victorian Advocacy League for Intellectual Disability (VALID). Each session brought together participants, support workers, facilitators and an observer from the Centre for Practice Excellence.
For many participants, these sessions were an opportunity to talk openly about topics rarely discussed.
"Just wanted to tell you that my eyes lit up when you talked about sex. I never knew anything about that before the workshops. I never got told about this when I was at school. I’m 46. I have a right to know about sex," said Julianne, a participant.
The policy promotes the right to explore and express sexuality, make informed decisions, and experience relationships based on consent, respect and safety. It also reinforces the importance of privacy, choice and self-determination.
This work was about more than policy, it was about people, rights and belonging.
Image: A man and woman stand side by side, smiling at each other. Behind them a group of other people are sitting around a table.
2023 - 2024: Learning that fits, Liam’s story
Looking back to 2023 and 2024, we heard Liam’s* story. At 16, he was attending his mainstream school less than one day a week. Together with his Education Support Worker, he explored what was getting in the way and recognised that the busy, crowded environment did not match how he learns and feels most comfortable.
With Liam leading the decisions, and with support from his care team, a range of strategies were trialled to keep him in the same setting. When it became clear that a different approach would serve him better, Liam and the team designed a gradual transition to a smaller, flexible school. The timing was set by Liam, so he could move at a pace that felt right.
Across that year, the shift was clear. Liam attended regularly and his confidence grew, he became a steady presence and a role model for his peers. He was elected school captain and won a prestigious education award, acknowledging great endeavours exercised by a student.
Beyond the school gate, Liam was engaged at home, proudly displaying his awards. He enjoyed visiting museums and cafes. He enrolled in a school-based apprenticeship and was working towards transitioning back to his family.
Liam’s story is a reminder that when we shape the learning environment to suit the young person, strengths show up, participation follows and leadership emerges.
Image: A young person works on a computer at his bedroom’s desk as his youth worker watches on.
2023 - 2024: Listening to carers
In 2023 and 2024, our National Carer Advisory Group, made up of 22 dedicated foster and kinship carers, played a central role in shaping how we support carers and the children and young people in their care.
Together, they co-designed and consulted on key projects to strengthen connection, improve conditions, and influence cultural change across Life Without Barriers and the wider sector.
Throughout the year, the group shared insights on what helps carers feel valued and supported, from peer networks and recognition to practical policies that make a real difference. Their voices continue to guide how we create systems that listen and respond to the people who open their homes and hearts every day.
Carer Advisory Groups also met across Queensland, Victoria and South Australia, creating more opportunities for collaboration and local influence.
Leanne, a Life Without Barriers carer of 18 years alongside her husband Geoff, shared what drew her to the group.
"I’m always open to learning, which is why I joined the Carer Advisory Group, I wanted to hear other carers’ perspectives."
"If it’s going to bring about positive change for children and carers by sharing what’s happening, challenges or what’s working well, that’s valuable to have that input."
Together, these conversations helped shape practical improvements and built stronger partnerships between carers, staff and leaders.
Image: Close-up of Leanne and Geoff standing outdoors, embracing and smiling at the camera.
2024 - 2025: Life moments
Thomas has been part of the Life Without Barriers community in Brisbane for the past two and a half years. Through the Support at Home Program, he engages a range of supports that help him live independently in his own home, from medical appointments and shopping, to social outings and time at the Capalaba Day Centre.
"Life is sort of made up of moments, and you live them once and they’re gone. Those moments make memories, so make every moment a happy moment, you’ll have happy memories, and you’ll have a happy life," said Thomas.
Learn more about Thomas' story here.
Image: Thomas wearing a grey jacket, yellow and maroon polo shirt and maroon pants, sits in an armchair.
2024 - 2025: The power of advocacy and connection
When Patricia Patania began her new role as House Supervisor at Smith Street in 2024, she quickly discovered resident Dianne’s warm and lively presence. It also didn’t take long for Patricia to notice something else, Dianne’s longing for connection with her family.
Patricia took a leap of faith. She picked up the phone, found a number listed in Dianne’s file, and called. On the other end of the line, Dianne’s sister Eyleen picked up. This simple phone call turned into a life-changing reunion.
"She was overjoyed to hear Dianne was alive and doing well. We spoke for over an hour," Patricia said.
Within days, Dianne and her family were speaking regularly on phone and video calls. A date was also set for a family reunion in the months that followed.
Patricia’s care and courage helped Dianne find her family again after decades apart, showing the true impact of advocacy and connection.
Image: Dianne with her baby dolls, Little Boy and Anna.
2024 - 2025: Asha's journey of self-advocacy
Earlier this year, we met Asha*, a young person who drove her own self-advocacy with courage and resilience. From finding her voice to marching in the Mardi Gras parade, Asha’s year has been one of strength, growth and pride.
"Life does get better. You just have to keep pushing forward," said Asha.
Her story reminds us how powerful it is when young people are supported to be themselves and take charge of their future.
Learn more about Asha's journey here.
Image: A teenager wearing a pride flag stands beside a path at a lake, looking into the distance.
30 Years: Then, Now, Next series
Read 'Partnering for change 2020 - 2023 | 30 Years with Life Without Barriers' here.
Read 'Then, our Beginnings 1995 - 2009 | 30 Years with Life Without Barriers' here.
Read 'The journey continues 2009 - 2015 | 30 Years with Life Without Barriers' here.
Read 'Expanding our impact 2015-2020 | 30 Years with Life Without Barriers' here.
Read '30 Years: Then, Now, Next with Life Without Barriers' here.
A person's story is precious. We take storytelling seriously. Sometimes people are able to tell their own story, and we love that. We always make sure they give us their ok, and we will always honour the trust placed in us to bring their story forward.
*Some names have been changed to protect the individuals in this story.
