Inclusion at Heart

Inclusion at Heart We support people with injury illness and disability to improve their lives by facilitating inclusion

We provide tailored evidence-based services to children, young people or adults (and carers) who have physical and / or mental health conditions and disabilities. We provide support in relation to the following:

Vocational support:
Supporting people with disability, illness or injury to access work, volunteer, or education environments by undertaking and offering services including:
- Career exploration and assessments
- Job placement and development services
- Employer education and guidance
- Skills development

Psychosocial support:
Coordination of needs to address barriers to participation and identify goals through assessments and interventions.
- Support to adjust to the impact of a disability including independent living, life care planning and counselling. Medical management support:
Work collaboratively with you and your treatment providers to develop a plan to help you achieve your health and work goals. Advocacy support:
Assist the person with disability to exercise choice and control and to have their voice heard in matters that affect them. Services include:
- advocating for access to the NDIS
- advocating for adjustments or accommodations within the workplace / educational institution including schools
- advocating for gifted students (including twice-exceptional student i.e. gifted person who also has a disability)


We address a broad range of issues including:
- Mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), trauma, suicide, stress and more.
- Physical disabilities including traumatic brain injury (TBI), acquired brain injury (ABI), stroke, spinal cord injury (SCI), epilepsy and more.
- Intellectual disabilities
- Twice-exceptional (gifted with a disability)
- Chronic / persistent pain
- Autism (ASD) plus comorbid conditions including Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, ehlers-danlos syndromes, postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS), epilepsy and dysautonomia

Acknowledgement of Country:
We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land where we work and live, the Gubbi Gubbi people and pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging. We celebrate the stories, culture and traditions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders of all communities who also work and live on this land. Acknowledgement of Diversity:
We acknowledge and respect the diversity of bodies, genders and relationships as well as each person's each person’s culture, sexual orientation and abilities. Acknowledgement of Lived Experience:
We would like to recognise those with lived experience of mental health conditions and recovery. We acknowledge that we can only provide quality services through valuing, respecting, and drawing upon the lived experience and expert knowledge of the individual, their families, carers, friends, staff and the local community. Qualifications:
- Master of Rehabilitation Counselling from Griffith University
- Standard Mental Health First Aider
- Youth Mental Health First Aider
- Graduate Certificate of Financial Planning
- Bachelor of Economics from University of Queensland
- Bachelor of Business (Management) from University of Queensland

Counselling approaches:
- Evidence based
- Strengths focused approach
- Lifespan approach
- Trauma informed care
- Positive psychology
- Narrative therapy
- Motivational interviewing
- Mindfulness based approach

Professional Membership:
Full Member of Australian Society of Rehabilitation Counsellors Ltd (ASORC)

📢 New Research Alert: Autism Isn’t One-Size-Fits-AllGroundbreaking research from Princeton University reveals four genet...
31/08/2025

📢 New Research Alert: Autism Isn’t One-Size-Fits-All

Groundbreaking research from Princeton University reveals four genetically distinct autism subtypes — each with unique developmental patterns and co-occurring traits. 🧠💡

➡️ Social & behavioral challenges
➡️ Moderate traits (no delays or co-occurring conditions)
➡️ Mixed ASD with developmental delay
➡️ Broadly affected (including intellectual disability & ADHD traits)

Understanding these subtypes could lead to more tailored support and earlier identification.

This is a powerful step forward in recognising the diversity within the autism spectrum. Let’s keep advocating for individualised, affirming support.

Two large studies on autism reveal four distinct ASD subtypes based on genetic variations and the distinct neural signatures of children displaying autistic traits.

Does anyone have any contacts who can help this group?
30/08/2025

Does anyone have any contacts who can help this group?

🚨 URGENT HELP NEEDED – MARQUEE FOR OUR ELDERS 🚨

We’ve already tried Gympie Party World, Noosa Party Hire, QuEvents, and other Sunshine Cost Hire companies, most schools, most community group and even the Sunshine Coast Uni but unfortunately to no avail.

The marquee we had booked (7x14m) had been double booked (phone call received yesterday)

Now we are left without cover for our Elders at the Gympie NAIDOC Family Fun Day.

We are urgently looking for a marquee minimum size 6x12m (larger if possible) to protect around 30 Elders from the elements.

👉 Requirements:
• Cannot be pegged into the ground (must be held by weights – we are happy to purchase or hire these if needed

• Preferably comes with 3 walls & waterproof root for extra protection from elements

• Minimal poles inside (wheelchairs, walkers, tables and chairs need space to move safely)

If you or someone you know can help us source a marquee, please get in touch as soon as possible. This is an important part of ensuring our Elders are comfortable, respected, and safe ot the event.

📅 Event: Friday 5th September
🕒 Time: 3pm - 8pm
📍 Nelson Reserve, Gympie

Please share this post to help us spread the word 🙏

🌟 Empowering Women Through Tiny Homes: A Game-Changing Approach to Affordable Housing 🌟Home ownership has long been out ...
30/08/2025

🌟 Empowering Women Through Tiny Homes: A Game-Changing Approach to Affordable Housing 🌟

Home ownership has long been out of reach for so many — but what if we could change the narrative with creative, compassionate solutions?

A bold new initiative featured on Australian Story is doing just that: offering 15 at-risk women the chance to own their first home through a tiny-house program — for under $120,000. Each participant received $55,000 in support and contributed approximately $40,000, helping them build a safe and sustainable home for themselves .

This initiative shines because it:
• Invests in potential, not labels — giving women (some formerly homeless or at-risk) a pathway to secure housing and stability.
• Fosters ownership, community, and resilience through hands-on building and shared accomplishment.
• Demonstrates the power of local solutions, with individuals noticing a crisis and responding with heart and action.

As a business leader, this story resonates deeply. It illustrates how social innovation can intersect with warmth, inclusivity, and affordability to create real impact.

Let’s champion:
• Collaborative housing models
• Policy advocacy for tiny-home regulations
• Non-profit and community cross-sector partnerships

Please share or comment if you believe in finding creative housing solutions that empower lives — not just house them.

The bold experiment to give 15 at-risk women a chance to own their first home for under $120,000, but there was one tiny catch.

Good visual information about Australian census data
29/08/2025

Good visual information about Australian census data

28/08/2025

🚨 Important Update on Melatonin Access 🚨

Many families have been impacted by recent changes to supplement supply — with iHerb and other international suppliers no longer able to ship melatonin to Australia.

For those who rely on melatonin as part of their sleep routine, this change may cause concern. In Australia, melatonin is a prescription-only medication (with limited PBS-subsidised options).

If you or your child use melatonin:
✔️ Reach out to your GP or paediatrician as soon as possible to discuss prescription options.
✔️ Ask about both PBS-listed formulations and compounded alternatives if a higher or specific dose is needed.
✔️ Plan ahead — supply disruptions may affect availability.

💡 While this change can feel frustrating, support is available. Please connect with your treating doctor to ensure you don’t run out of medication.

We have one very sad family here about this change. Our specialists all knew and supported us to use iHerb to access this crucial medication, now we have to find a different solution. You are not alone in feeling upset at more red tape.

Now, if you look at a comparative sleep medication (without melatonin) make sure you check the ingredients as some have high levels of Vitamin B6 (apparently) which can cause peripheral neuropathy which can have devastating long lasting effects. It may not say Vitamin B6 as there are many other terms which essentially mean it’s a key component. Ask your doctors or the pharmacist for advice before using these products.

Shine On, Migrant Entrepreneurs! ✨The Migrant Business Ready Scholarship is now accepting applications — and it’s your k...
27/08/2025

Shine On, Migrant Entrepreneurs! ✨

The Migrant Business Ready Scholarship is now accepting applications — and it’s your key to unlocking the potential of your business dream! Proudly offered by Sunshine Coast Council, this fully funded, eight-week program is designed specifically for migrants looking to start or grow a small business on the Sunshine Coast.

What’s on offer?
- 8 weekly coaching circles (2.5 hours each, running from 8 October to 12 November 2025), led by The Learning Coach. Supportive, hands-on learning designed to build your entrepreneurial confidence, vision, and practical skills.
- Gain rich insights into customer strategy, marketing and sales, financial planning, and risk management, plus access to an online coaching portal to stay connected between sessions.
- A clear pathway to upgrade into a nationally recognised Certificate III or IV in Business — a boost to both your knowledge and credibility.

Why you should apply:
This program isn’t just about building a business — it’s about finding your voice and confidence while honouring your cultural heritage in a supportive entrepreneurial community.

Who's eligible?
- Sunshine Coast residents, aged 18+, confident in spoken and written English.
- You must have (or be willing to obtain) an ABN.
- A commitment to attend all eight sessions and a passion to push your business idea forward is a must.

Key Dates:
- Applications are now open — submit your expression of interest by 8 September 2025!

Need more info? Email commdevelopment@sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au

Services and programs to support new arrivals to establish and grow their small business.

🌸 Pelvic Pain Awareness 🌸I had the privilege of attending a fantastic presentation on pelvic pain at the recent full-day...
26/08/2025

🌸 Pelvic Pain Awareness 🌸

I had the privilege of attending a fantastic presentation on pelvic pain at the recent full-day Pain Conference at SCUH. Such an important reminder of how many women live with this condition and how vital it is to increase awareness, understanding, and access to support.

Sharing this excellent resource from RANZCOG for anyone wanting to learn more:
👉 https://ranzcog.edu.au/womens-health/patient-information/rate/

The more we talk about pelvic pain, the closer we get to breaking down stigma and helping women get the care they deserve. 💜

The Raising Awareness Tool for Endometriosis (RATE) is a quick-to-use electronic resource for health professionals and their patients to help identify and assess endometriosis.

UniSC Presents: TEDx University of the Sunshine Coast✨Are you a passionate UniSC student with a powerful idea waiting to...
25/08/2025

UniSC Presents: TEDx University of the Sunshine Coast✨

Are you a passionate UniSC student with a powerful idea waiting to be heard? Here’s your chance to shine on the TEDx stage!

Why you should apply:
Through the Students as Partners (SaP) initiative, UniSC empowers students with transformative opportunities to lead, innovate, and amplify their voices. TEDx USC is the perfect platform to bring your idea to life—underpinning our mission to develop leadership, confidence, and graduate attributes in real-world action.

What to expect if you apply:
A 3-month preparation journey with auditions, rehearsals (online and in-person), and one-on-one script coaching.

Finalists will present live on Thursday, 20 November 2025, at Sippy Downs Campus.

What they are looking for:
Powerful ideas that connect with the theme “INTERCONNECTION”, offering fresh perspectives that inspire.

Tell them why your idea matters, how it links to the theme, and who it resonates with—through a 2-min video pitch and written entries.

Remember: no stage notes allowed. Impress us with clarity, creativity, and a confident delivery.

How to apply:
Head to your Student Portal now and start your application—submit your pitch, CV, and written responses before the deadline. Don’t miss this chance to bring your ideas to a live audience! Closing 30 August 2025

TEDx University of the Sunshine Coast

🗣️ Groundbreaking Research into Stuttering 🧠✨Curtin University researchers have made a game-changing discovery that coul...
24/08/2025

🗣️ Groundbreaking Research into Stuttering 🧠✨

Curtin University researchers have made a game-changing discovery that could transform how we support people who stutter. Their study found that stuttering is linked to how the brain processes speech, not how speech is physically produced — offering hope for new, more effective therapies in the future.

This research helps shift the narrative from “fixing” speech to understanding the neurological pathways behind it. For those of us working in neuro-affirming, person-centred ways — this is a powerful reminder of why evidence-based practice matters.

It’s also a call to action for employers, educators, and service providers: communication differences are not deficits. With the right support and inclusive environments, people who stutter can thrive.

A new global study has identified a hereditary link associated with stuttering, and experts have said the research will be key to providing early intervention for people who struggle with the condition.

23/08/2025

Hopefully we will have better care through public health for women with endometriosis and related conditions closer to home in the near future.

📅 Diarise This Free Family Event!This annual event is always a hit with families — the feedback we hear every year is ho...
22/08/2025

📅 Diarise This Free Family Event!
This annual event is always a hit with families — the feedback we hear every year is how much everyone enjoyed themselves. Don’t miss your chance to join the fun!

🆓 It’s free, it’s family-friendly, and it only happens once a year.

📢 Workplace Stress & Asthma – New Research FindingsDid you know that workplace bullying, job insecurity, and work-to-fam...
21/08/2025

📢 Workplace Stress & Asthma – New Research Findings

Did you know that workplace bullying, job insecurity, and work-to-family conflict have all been linked to asthma symptoms?

A new international study highlights how post-COVID changes like remote work and flexible hours are not only improving work-life balance, especially for women, but are also reducing workplace bullying. These findings could have important implications for how we shape healthier, more inclusive workplaces in future.

🧠 As someone working to improve neurodivergent inclusion, career wellbeing, and equitable employment strategies, I’m particularly interested in how psychosocial stressors impact health, especially for people with invisible disabilities or co-occurring conditions.

Read more here 👉 https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ajim.23722
Let’s keep pushing for evidence-based change.

Background Prior work has linked work stressors to asthma. However, research related to gender-specific associations remains sparse and yielded mixed results. We aimed to address this gap. Methods...

Address

Sunshine Coast, QLD

Opening Hours

Monday 8:30am - 4pm
Tuesday 8:30am - 4pm
Wednesday 8:30am - 4pm
Thursday 8:30am - 4pm
Friday 8:30am - 4pm

Telephone

+61493281331

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