Annual Report 2024–2025

“My highlight this year has been seeing our organisation continue to deliver high quality, individualised supports that truly make a difference in the lives of our participants. At the same time, I am proud that we have been able to expand our community impact through the launch of the Parent Pathways program and the Youth Disability Cautionary and Diversion Program. Both initiatives reflect our commitment to creating opportunities, strengthening families, and building inclusive communities.”

“This year, I’m proud of how our operations team delivered consistent impact across every service line. Each month, thousands of people accessed tailored employment programs, NDIS supports, Social Enterprises, Training, and Plan Management services. Behind every number is a story of inclusion and opportunity, and it’s the dedication of our people and the strength of our systems that made this possible.”

“Our Finance team has shown exceptional resilience and commitment this year, turning challenges into opportunities for growth. Through collaboration and dedication, they not only met deadlines but also achieved key milestones with consistency and professionalism. Their positive attitude and determination have been a driving force in navigating a demanding environment, showcasing the strength, capability, and spirit of the entire team.”

“Joining are-able this year has been a fantastic experience. From day one, I’ve been inspired by the organisation’s purpose and the momentum behind its strategic development. Creating our new strategic plan has been a highlight, but equally rewarding has been the opportunity to build strong relationships across teams and communities. These connections are already proving invaluable as we work together to drive innovation, unlock growth, and deliver lasting impact.”

“This year has been a defining one for me professionally, marked by growth, achievement, and stepping fully into my role as GM of Marketing and Communications at are-able. Completing my postgraduate studies gave me the confidence to back my decisions with sound theory and practice, while leading major organisational shifts taught me to own my leadership style, trust my judgement, and create space for my team to thrive.”

“This year, we achieved a remarkable increase in our Employee Net Promoter Score (eNPS), rising from 7 to 29. This uplift reflects the success of our Cultural Improvement Plan, which was championed by our senior leadership team and made a strategic priority. Stronger staff connection and transparent communication have been key drivers of this progress, reinforcing our commitment to building a more engaged and inclusive workplace.”

“This year, I am proud of the dedication of our Employment Services teams, who continue to create meaningful change in the lives of vulnerable individuals. The launch of the Parent Pathways program has expanded our reach and strengthened community connections, while a standout moment was celebrating IDEAL Placements’ 30-year milestone in Mackay and formally welcoming them into the are-able family, a step that enhances our capability and supports our long-term growth”

“Reflecting on this year, I’m incredibly proud of what our Social Enterprises and Plan Management teams have achieved together. Despite the challenges, we’ve supported one another and delivered outstanding results, always staying true to the belief that our remarkable team is at the heart of everything we do.”

“Seeing are-able’s impact first-hand in my own community is incredibly rewarding. With its strong regional focus and commitment to meaningful employment, are-able is truly part of the community’s fabric. I’m proud to honour its legacy, champion its growth, and ensure our clients remain at the heart of everything we do.”

“I am always grateful for the opportunity to serve on the are-able board, with the privilege to support the work we do and spend time with leaders who are really making a difference. Whether it is the Big R’s Shed or supporting people into stable employment, it is easy to be passionate about working for are-able. My highlight for the year was listening to the story of one of our supported employees who was beaming with pride after landing a permanent job and our supports were no longer needed. That’s what it is about.”

“Now in my fifth year as a board member, I continue to have the privilege to be part of the broadening are-able purpose to improve the lives of people living with a disability. I am pleased to be given opportunities to apply my skills, training and experience to both governance and strategy roles contributing to the development of this wonderful values based organisation. A recent highlight has been working with our Head of Strategy and Projects to help develop the new three year Strategic Plan which will guide us in navigating both opportunities and challenges in this dynamic environment.”

“I am inspired by the are-able programs, enterprises and the wonderful are-able staff that work so hard to make a difference in the lives of people with a disability and their families. This makes me proud to be part of an organisation that makes this difference, and look forward to the ongoing success of are-able in 2026.

Highlight of 25, spending time together with fellow board directors and senior management and realise how aligned we are in what are-able’s future can be.”

“I am impressed with the brilliant work that are-able is doing and will continue to achieve in creating innovative and meaningful social impact to the diverse community groups.

For FY 2025: The board and management have worked collaboratively to develop a new strategy to fulfill are-able’s purpose and vision which is challenging and exciting.”

“Serving on the are-able Board and the former WDEA Works Committee has been a privilege, and I am immensely proud of the organisation that are-able has become today. Much has changed during my years with are-able, but what has never wavered is the passion and commitment of everyone involved with are-able, and the shared belief that we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of people with disability through employment.”

“I joined the Board of are-able because I believe deeply in the power of employment to transform lives, especially when inclusion and purpose are at the heart of the purpose. This past year, a real highlight has been witnessing the strength, professionalism, and dedication of the management team. Their leadership has been instrumental in guiding the organisation through change and opportunity, and I’m proud to support a team that is so committed to empowering people of all abilities to thrive.”

“I joined the Board to help create meaningful employment opportunities for people with disability. With lived experience of disability, I’m committed to ensuring our strategy and services reflect the voices and needs of those we support. Seeing are-able continue partnerships with local employers, leading to sustainable job placements for participants, has been a standout achievement.”