Who We Are
Our Story
ARIA was launched with a powerful mission: to break barriers and raise the standard of support for people with disabilities in our community. ARIA stands for "Advocacy and Reach Initiative Australia" - a name that captures our driving purpose: to extend our reach to those that need impactful support, and to provide free professional advocacy that ensures their rights are recognised, respected, and upheld in every aspect of society. Inspired by the journey of her own child with a disability, our Founder experienced first-hand the challenges within the current system, and has channelled her frustration into meaningful action as a powerful force for change.
Our Team
Our team is made up of passionate individuals with a profound understanding of what it means to be a person with a disability. As part of our commitment to ensuring an outstanding standard of service, we employ staff that have experience working in the disability services sector, life experience as a person with disability, experience as a carer of someone with a disability, or experience navigating the NDIS space. Our staff have undertaken specific checks, clearances, and safety protocols, and are dedicated to professional development and regular training practices. We ensure the right people are helping the right people.
Our Services
"Integrity is our compass, difference is our strength"
Advocacy Services
We provide free, confidential non-legal advocacy to help individuals with disabilities understand and uphold their rights. Whether it’s navigating service systems or addressing unfair treatment, our advocates are here to stand by you.
NDIS Access & Support
We assist individuals in understanding and applying for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), guiding them through the process of accessing funding and support. For existing participants, we help coordinate and manage services to ensure their plan is working effectively.
NDIS Participant Support
Our team works directly with NDIS participants to identify their needs and connect them with the right supports – including allied health, daily living assistance, and community participation – to promote independence and wellbeing.
Education & Employment Support
We collaborate with schools, training providers, and employers to ensure inclusive education and workplace environments. From tailored adjustments to direct support, we help individuals succeed in learning and employment settings.
Awareness & Inclusion
We actively raise awareness about disability rights, inclusion, and accessibility through community events, media, and campaigns – changing perceptions and breaking down barriers.
Projects & Workshops
We design and deliver specialised projects and interactive workshops for educators, employers, and service providers. These programs build capacity, foster understanding, and promote inclusive practices in schools, workplaces, and beyond.
At the heart of everything we do is a commitment to equity, empowerment, and meaningful change.
Better Together - Proud Supporters
The Resilience Project
The Resilience Project
The Resilience Project
ARIA proudly supports the work of The Resilience Project, who deliver emotionally engaging programs to schools, sports clubs and businesses, providing practical, evidence-based mental health strategies to build resilience and happiness.
The Change Project Co
The Resilience Project
The Resilience Project
ARIA and The Change Project Co are proud to be collaborating on awareness and education programs, designed to provide support in the education environment for neurodivergent students, and education to their educators about neurodivergence.
Be You
The Resilience Project
Be You
ARIA proudly supports the work of Be You, who provide educators with knowledge, tools and resources to create positive, inclusive and responsive learning communities where every child, young person, educator and family is empowered to achieve their best possible mental health.