Aboriginal Disability Services

Aboriginal disability support services provide culturally appropriate care tailored to the unique needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people living with disability.

Accessing support can often be challenging due to cultural, geographic, and systemic barriers, which is why it’s essential that services are delivered in a way that respects cultural traditions, family structures, and community connections.

For Aboriginal people living with severe or profound disability, intellectual disability, or sensory and speech disability, finding the right support can make a significant difference in their daily lives.

Whether it’s assistance with personal care, mobility, communication, or community participation, culturally aware services ensure that individuals receive care in a way that aligns with their values and way of life.

At Empacare, we work closely with individuals and families to help them access NDIS funding, develop personalised support plans, and connect with local services that understand the importance of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural identity.

By focusing on community-led care, we ensure that support is not only practical but also empowering, allowing individuals to maintain strong ties to family, country, and culture while receiving the assistance they need.

Disability in the Aboriginal Community

Disability prevalence is higher among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people than in the wider Australian population, with many individuals experiencing challenges in accessing the right support.

Factors such as limited healthcare services, geographic isolation, and cultural barriers make it more difficult for people in rural and remote areas to receive the assistance they need. For those living in Torres Strait Islander communities and remote communities, these challenges are often compounded by a lack of locally available disability services.

Torres Strait Islander children and young people are also disproportionately affected, with many experiencing intellectual, sensory, or physical disabilities at a higher rate than non-Indigenous children.

Despite this, many families face systemic barriers when trying to access healthcare, education, and support programs that are culturally appropriate and easily accessible.

At Empacare, we understand the need for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population-specific support that respects cultural traditions, family structures, and community ties.

We provide locally focused, culturally appropriate services that help individuals and families overcome these challenges, ensuring they receive the care, resources, and advocacy they deserve—no matter where they live.

Accessing the right disability support can be complex, especially for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who face barriers to mainstream services. Culturally appropriate services ensure that individuals receive care that aligns with their traditions, family values, and way of life.

At Empacare, we provide tailored assistance to help Aboriginal people with disability access the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and receive the support they need to live independently and stay connected to their communities.

Personalised NDIS Support Plans

Our team works closely with individuals and families to navigate the NDIS system, from applying for funding to developing personalised support plans. We liaise with the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) to ensure participants receive appropriate funding and services that meet their unique needs.

Community-Based Care and Health Services

For many Aboriginal people, receiving care in a familiar environment – whether at home or within the community – makes all the difference. Our support workers are part of the local area, ensuring that services feel comfortable, safe, and culturally appropriate.

In addition to disability support, we help connect participants with essential health services, ensuring access to medical care, therapy, and allied health professionals who understand the specific challenges faced by Aboriginal communities.

We also work alongside the National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA) to advocate for better resources and policies that support Aboriginal people with disability.

Employment and Skills Development

Finding meaningful work is an important step towards independence and confidence. We help participants:

• Build specific job skills suited to their interests and abilities.
• Find employment opportunities with culturally supportive workplaces.
• Develop pathways for career growth through training and mentoring.

Cultural and Mental Health Support

We know that mental health and emotional wellbeing are just as important as physical care. That’s why we offer:

Culturally safe mental health support, including counselling and wellbeing programs.

• Opportunities to connect with Elders and community mentors.
• Programs that encourage cultural healing, storytelling, and connection to country.

Support for Families and Carers

Caring for a person with disability comes with unique challenges. We work closely with families to ensure they feel supported and have access to:

• Training and education about disability care in a way that aligns with cultural practices.
• Respite services to allow carers time to rest and recharge.
• Assistance with NDIS applications to ensure the best possible support for their loved one.

Best Value for Participants

We ensure that NDIS funding is used efficiently, maximising the support and services available to each participant. Our focus is on delivering real outcomes, not just ticking boxes.

Locally Focused Staffing

Our team is made up of local indigenous male and female workers who understand the community. We prioritise locally-led supports, ensuring that participants feel comfortable and connected.

Extensive Industry Experience

With years of experience in disability support and NDIS services, we have the knowledge and expertise to help participants navigate the system and access the right care.

Readily Accessible Mental Health Support

We understand that wellbeing goes beyond physical care. That’s why we offer mental health support services that are culturally appropriate and easily accessible to participants and their families.

If you or a loved one need Aboriginal disability support services in Broome, EmpaCare is here to help. Our team is dedicated to providing culturally safe, community-focused support that respects and values every individual’s journey.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you in accessing the right services and creating a support plan tailored to your needs. Let’s work together to ensure that every Aboriginal person with disability in Broome has access to the care, opportunities, and respect they deserve.