About Us

For over 77 years, we have proudly stood as Victoria’s longest-serving community-based support organization, dedicated to empowering individuals with cognitive and intellectual disabilities and those experiencing social isolation. Our rich history reflects a steadfast commitment to inclusion, community, and meaningful opportunities for all.

Our Journey

Formed as the Gawith Villa, where a group of revolutionary parents came together to find an alternative to the institutional care that was the only option being offered at the time.

Inclusion Melbourne’s transformation from the old day service model to personalised services commenced in the early 1990s, placing the organisation ahead of the sector for disability support, and as a leader under the current NDIS climate

Today, Inclusion Melbourne provides a range of personalised services to more than 400 adults, including support coordination, direct support, community visitation, volunteering opportunities, employment pathways and coaching, as well as specialist learning and accredited training programs that build independence, skills and community participation.

Through our systemic advocacy, research and practice innovation, Inclusion Melbourne provides leadership to both state and federal governments in policy development and sector reform.

There is a lot of heart in our organisation, and we readily share our values, seeing the potential in a person’s future. It is all about having a ‘good life’.

Why Inclusion Melbourne?

For more than 77 years, Inclusion Melbourne has been a leader in supporting people with intellectual and cognitive disabilities, as well as those experiencing social exclusion, to live connected, meaningful and self-directed lives.

As Victoria’s longest-serving community-based organisation in this field, we are recognised for our commitment to social inclusion, citizenship, community participation, education, employment and lifelong learning. 

Unlike traditional disability service models that often rely on segregated programs and limited pathways, Inclusion Melbourne places genuine community connection, belonging and active citizenship at the centre of everything we do. Our services encompass social and community supports, support coordination, volunteering opportunities, accredited education and training, employment capacity building, personalised workplace coaching, and pathways to meaningful employment. 

Our work goes beyond the provision of support. We focus on

  • building genuine relationships,
  • developing individual strengths, and
  • creating opportunities for people to participate fully in community life.

Through tailored learning, skill development, volunteer experiences and employment pathways, we support people to build confidence, develop vocational and life skills, pursue further education, secure and maintain employment, and contribute as valued members of their communities. 

What sets Inclusion Melbourne apart is our personalised approach and our commitment to evidence-informed practice, supported by partnerships with some of Australia’s and the world’s leading disability academic bodies.

Through innovative programs and a strong belief in the potential of every individual, we continue to create lasting opportunities that empower people to achieve their goals and realise their full potential. 

Our Vision

Our Mission

Our Values

Contact Inclusion Melbourne

We value your feedback and are here to assist with any inquiries you may have. Whether you have questions, need support, or want to share your thoughts, our team is ready to help. Please don’t hesitate to reach out through our contact form, email, or phone. We look forward to connecting with you and providing the assistance you need.