At Empowered Liveability, we often say that collaboration sits at the heart of everything we do. In 2025, that belief was not just reinforced – it was deepened, expanded and brought to life through the many relationships that continue to shape who we are as an organisation. This article is not a reflection on outputs or milestones. Instead, it is a heartfelt acknowledgement of the people, organisations and partnerships that have stood alongside us this year. Simply put, this is a thank you.
Across Victoria, Queensland and beyond, we have had the privilege of working with an extraordinary network of providers, advocates, coordinators, educators and community organisations who share a common purpose: improving the lives of people with disability. Every connection made in 2025 whether new or long‑standing reminded us that real progress in this sector is built on trust, respect, and a willingness to work together.
We are incredibly grateful to have collaborated with organisations such as eQuality Support, Friend in Me, Keeley’s Cause, T and K Support Services, Tender Loving Care, Disability Housing Solutions, Aruma, JustSDA, Satellite Support Services, All About Caring, PNP, i’ara Specialist Support Coordination, the Support Worker Store, One Community, Wise Healthcare, Peak Plan Management, SALT, The Power In You Project, Including You, SDA Services, nib Thrive, and many more. Each relationship brought its own strengths, insights and generosity, and together they formed a powerful reminder that no single organisation carries this work alone.
And we cannot (nor would we want to) forget the many SIL providers and Community Access across our properties who provide support to our tenants both in the home and community. The messages we receive from our tenants and their families are wonderful and the independence, life and a sense of belonging they are now enjoying is truly the reason we all do this work.
What stood out most this year was not the format of our interactions, but the spirit behind them. Whether we came together through events, open conversations, shared learning opportunities or quiet behind‑the‑scenes collaboration, the tone was always one of openness and mutual respect. These relationships allowed us to listen more deeply, learn more honestly and grow more confidently, both as individuals, and as an organisation.
Our partnerships also extended beyond professional settings and into the broader community. Supporting All‑Abilities sport through initiatives like the Reclink Geelong Power Cats and the growing All‑Abilities basketball and soccer leagues reminded us that connection, belonging and joy are just as important as housing outcomes. These relationships reinforce that inclusion is lived and felt, not just discussed.
What we value most about the relationships strengthened in 2025 is their authenticity. They are built on shared values, genuine conversations and a collective willingness to show up for participants and for each other. Many of these partnerships have evolved beyond collaboration into trusted professional friendships and that is something we do not take lightly.
As we look ahead to 2026, our focus remains clear. We will continue to nurture the relationships that have supported us this year, while remaining open to new connections that challenge us, inspire us, and broaden our perspective. Our organisation is only as strong as the partnerships that surround it, and we are proud to stand within a sector filled with people who care deeply about doing better together.
To everyone who connected with Empowered Liveability in 2025 thank you. Thank you for your trust, your time, your shared knowledge and your commitment to collaboration. We look forward to continuing this journey side by side, knowing that when relationships are valued and strengthened, the impact reaches far beyond any single organisation.
Here’s to the partnerships that carried us through 2025 and to everything we will continue to build together.
