What We Do

Project Independence is a breakthrough independent living model for people living with an intellectual disability. It is a unique model which provides people living with an intellectual disability the opportunity to acquire equity in a property, as well as the ability to live independently.

This new social housing model is based on around ten residents living in separate apartments in each development, with accommodation for a Live-in Resident Coordinator to support residents in meal planning and preparation.

The Project Independence Difference

An empowering pathway that supports people with intellectual disability to live independently while staying connected to community and support networks.

Illustration showing pathways from living 'At Home' to 'Independent Living' with intermediate housing options

Our approach provides

Three modern homes (3-4 apartments each)
Total of ten residents
Onsite live in resident coordinators unit
Private open space for each resident
Communal areas for dining and shared experiences
Landscaped gardens
Streetscape befitting the local area
Managed maintenance programs
Community links sourced

Project Independence commenced operation in 2012 in Canberra. We are ambitious, with plans to expand nationally and continue exploring opportunities to build and develop more properties for people living with disabilities and other disadvantaged groups.

Our Objectives Are:

To provide accommodation options for persons with intellectual disabilities that support transitions to independence through upholding their dignity and building their confidence. This will be done through sourcing, developing and managing residential properties which typify living arrangements for people who do not have disabilities.
To provide adequate individualised supports that promote continuous growth enabling ownership by residents of the accommodation.
To provide a person centred model of housing development which encourages freedom of choice and engages the residents in developing joint activities, their own rules and a sense of commitment and community.

To help grow ownership of accommodation by intellectually disabled residents to provide a pathway to future independent housing options.
As a social business to engage with other like-minded organisations, such as Governments, business or not-for-profit organisations, to develop future housing options for the intellectually disabled, as long as they meet the other objectives of the organisation.
To cooperate with other organisations in the furtherance of these objectives.