Access Support Services is governed by a Board of Management, with a strong commitment to community service. We have been providing support services in Townsville and Ayr for nearly four decades.
Our origins
In 1989, Access Support Services was founded in response to a significant gap in disability support services in Townsville. At the time, individuals with profound disabilities and their families struggled to find adequate care and resources to meet their needs.
Recognising this shortfall, a group of dedicated staff and families took action. Through advocacy and determination, they negotiated with the Department of Community Services and Health to secure funding for a group home that would provide full-time accommodation for five individuals with disabilities. This initiative marked the beginning of our journey toward empowering people to live with dignity and independence.
The evolution of our name
Throughout our history, our organisation has changed its name several times to reflect our growth and evolving mission:
- Originally known as "Supported Accommodation Townsville Inc.", our focus was on providing stable housing and essential care services.
- As our services expanded to include broader community care and support, we became "Accommodation Community Care and Essential Support Services Inc."
- For many years we were known as "Access Support Services Inc."
- Today we operate as "Access Support Services" — a name that represents our commitment to accessibility, inclusivity and meaningful support for all.
Growth and leadership
Over the years we have expanded our reach and services to support a diverse community of individuals with disabilities. We employ full-time and part-time staff, all dedicated to delivering high-quality, person-centred care. Our organisation is led by a CEO who, with the assistance of finance and administration teams, ensures we continue to operate effectively and responsively.
Our commitment to the future
While our journey began with a single group home, today we continue to grow and evolve to meet the changing needs of our community. Our mission remains clear: to provide personalised services and support that enrich the quality of people's lives.
From a single group home in 1989 to a trusted NDIS provider today — our purpose has never changed: to help people with disabilities live life on their own terms.