Empower Fund

Support for life, your way.

We are committed to providing Support for Life to our community. This means giving you the practical help you need now.

One of the ways in which we aim to do this is through our Empower Fund.

WHAT IS THE EMPOWER FUND?

The Empower Fund offers grants to help you live your life to the fullest.

These grants are designed to support items or experiences that cannot ordinarily be fully funded or supplied via other agencies, including the NDIS.

Think: tools that support your independence, activities that bring you joy, or experiences that let you feel included and empowered.

This is about the extra things that make life better, big or small, when other avenues can’t help.

What can I apply for?

Here are just some of the items we’ve funded over the years, to help spark ideas:

  • Flights and accommodation to attend events or sports games

  • Funds to heat a home swimming pool used for therapy

  • Non-slip laundry tiling for safety

  • Light- and sound-cancelling blinds

  • Sports wheelchairs

  • Drumming lessons for creativity and coordination

  • A laptop for gaming and DJing with friends

Other examples include travel assistance for holidays, photography courses, or even help to launch a new hobby or skill.

If it empowers you and makes your life more independent, joyful, or connected, it’s worth applying.

How to Apply

Applying is simple and we’re here if you need help.

  1. Start by reading our Guidelines for Applicants.
    This explains what the fund can and can’t be used for, and what information you need to include.

  2. If you meet the criteria, complete the Application Form.
    The form will ask you to explain your need and how this support will make a difference in your life.

Have questions or not sure where to start? Contact Kym, she’s happy to talk things through.

Need hardship support instead?

If you're facing financial hardship and need urgent help with daily essentials or short-term support, we may be able to help through a separate fund outside of the Empower Fund.

Please contact us to talk through your situation.

 
 

CAR MODIFICATIONS

“We used the grant to install a wheelchair lift in our car after the NDIS couldn’t help. Now Ari can get to school, medical appointments & social outings with ease. It’s made a huge difference for our whole family. In Ari’s words: ‘Thank you for your donation.’ We truly couldn’t have done it without the support.”

- Brita & Zy Phillips; Ari’s Parents

REFORMER PILATES MACHINE

“The grant helped me purchase a Reformer Pilates machine, something that’s already making a big difference. Driving to studios was becoming hard, so having it at home means I can care for my body every day, build strength & support my mental health. I’m so grateful for this support, it’s helped me feel more independent & hopeful."

- Paula Giolitto

 

ANNUAL PET INSURANCE FOR COMPANION DOG

“Lucy isn’t just my dog - she’s my daily motivation. With a degenerative muscle condition, gentle, regular exercise is essential, and Lucy keeps me walking every day. She helps me physically, but also emotionally and mentally. Having her pet insurance covered gave me real peace of mind. I’m so grateful for the support”

- Fiona Connor

EDUCATION SUPPORT

“Tenzin goes to an Education Development Support Center as he can’t attend mainstream school due to his condition. As international students, we had to pay a large disability support fee, which was a huge financial strain. The grant helped cover part of that cost - it was a big relief for our whole family. We were so touched. It meant someone cared when we had nowhere else to turn. Thank you.”

- Tshewang Namjay, Tenzin’s Mum

 

SPORTS WHEELCHAIR

"Before the grant, I couldn’t afford a Strike Force wheelchair and couldn’t play powerchair sport safely. Now I can train, compete & aim for the WA State Team. It’s taken the worry off my family, and made me feel like people truly care about my goals. Thank you, this has made my dream possible”

- Sarah Kerr

trip to Disneyland

“Joshua’s dream was to see the Disneyland Castle and fireworks & thanks to the grant, we made it happen. He rode roller coasters, met his favourite characters, and made memories we’ll all cherish forever. It brought so much joy to our whole family. We’re beyond grateful.”