The Ascent Group

19/02/2026

Last week, we informed our participants, families and staff directly about the changes to our Life Skills Participation Program (LPP) and Drop-In services. Then we made some public announcements.

It was important to us that the people most impacted heard from us first.

Since then, our focus has been on working individually with each participant to understand their goals, needs and preferences. For this reason, we have not set a single public timeframe for transitions. Each person’s situation is different, and we are taking a participant-led approach rather than applying a one-size-fits-all deadline.

We want to reassure our community:
• No participant will be left without support
• We are working closely with other local providers to identify suitable options
• Transitions will happen at a pace that reflects individual needs

Encouragingly, we are seeing an overwhelmingly positive response from many participants and families. There is strong understanding about the importance of ensuring Ascent remains sustainable into the future, and a number of participants have already been able to identify alternative arrangements that meet their needs.

These decisions were not made lightly. They were made to ensure we can continue delivering high-quality, sustainable supports for years to come.

We will continue to provide updates as we move through this process thoughtfully and responsibly.

Thank you to our staff, participants and community partners for your professionalism and collaboration as we work through this transition together.

13/02/2026

Important Update From Ascent
Today we shared news about a strategic redesign of our services to strengthen Ascent for the future.
Ascent is transitioning away from centre-based Life Skills Participation Program (LPP) at Leone’s Place and Drop-In services. We will expand Supported Independent Living (SIL) and start delivering much-needed respite services.
This change reflects the evolving NDIS environment and our responsibility to ensure Ascent remains financially sustainable, strong, and here for the long term.
Leone’s Place will continue to play an important role in our future. The site will transition to support accommodation, respite, training and community, with part of the building to be used as a SIL home while longer-term plans are developed.
We know this news will impact some participants, families and staff. These decisions are never easy. Our focus now is on respectful transitions, open communication, and ensuring continuity of support wherever possible.
Ascent is not closing — we are strengthening. 💙
By focusing on sustainable service models, we are building a resilient organisation that can continue supporting people with disability across our region for many years to come.
Further information will be provided directly to participants, families and stakeholders in the coming weeks.

13/02/2026

Ascent changes services to strengthen | Ascent has announced it is expanding supported living and respite services while reshaping its Armidale operations to better meet participant needs in a changing NDIS landscape.

Click the link in the comments to get the full story, paywall free. Really.

13/01/2026

Make a Real Difference - Become a Disability Support Worker in Guyra!

Are you passionate about helping others and making a meaningful impact in your community? The Ascent Group is looking for Casual Disability Support Workers based in Guyra.

Join a purpose-driven, supportive team where your work truly matters, and your professional growth is encouraged.

Applications close: Friday, 30 January 2026

07/12/2025

05/12/2025

05/12/2025

05/12/2025

04/12/2025

🎉 We’re honoured to receive Highly Commended for the Armidale Accessible Venue/Event Award! 🏆

A huge thank you to Ascent for hosting such a wonderful night 💙 and congratulations to all the incredible nominees and winners making inclusion and advocacy shine in our community! 🌟

We were moved by the kind words of the person who nominated us, and we wanted to share this beautiful submission:

“I would like to nominate the Armidale Ex-Services Club for their outstanding commitment to inclusion and accessibility within our community. Our participants visit the Club regularly, and the staff consistently go above and beyond to make every person feel welcomed and valued. The team takes the time to learn participants’ names and remember their regular orders, creating a warm and familiar environment. They are patient, respectful, and always willing to make adjustments when needed—whether that’s ensuring someone receives a receipt, providing extra support, or simply checking in to make sure everyone feels comfortable. Their genuine care and the effort they put into building positive relationships have made a significant difference to the people we support. The Ex-Services Club doesn’t just provide a service; they create a space where everyone is treated with dignity, inclusion, and kindness. For these reasons, I believe the Armidale Ex-Services Club is highly deserving of this recognition.”

Thank you to all of those involved, and we hope to see you all next year ❤️

04/12/2025

We sincerely thank St Kilda Hotel & Cellars for their generous support and commitment to inclusion in our region.

Your contribution helps us celebrate the organisations and individuals who are making real, lasting change in accessibility, advocacy, and community connection. By supporting this event, you help elevate the voices and efforts of those creating a more inclusive future.

Please support the businesses that support our community — like St Kilda, whose generosity helps make these celebrations possible.

04/12/2025

A big thank you to Sauer Transport for your generosity and ongoing support of the Inclusion in Action Disability Awards.

Your contribution makes it possible for us to recognise the changemakers who are making meaningful progress toward a more inclusive and accessible region. Your support strengthens our community and highlights the importance of celebrating those who drive real change.

We encourage everyone to support those who support our community — including Sauer Transport, who continue to give back in powerful ways.