We are locals supporting locals.
Every person deserves a village behind them.
i'ara began at a kitchen table in regional Cairns, created by founder Maddi Wright, whose lived experience and deep community roots shaped our ethos. What started as one person supporting her hometown during COVID-19 has grown into a women-led organisation of specialists across the whole country.
i'ara means “village” in the Kairuku language of Papua New Guinea (the name was blessed by our founder’s mother-in-law to use as our business name). It’s the philosophy our organisation is built on: every person deserves a village behind them.
At i'ara, village isn’t just our name, it’s our model of care. When clients join i'ara, they’re welcomed into our village, and we help strengthen the supports within theirs.
We are locals, supporting locals. We are your experts in Disability and Injury navigation.
Because we live here. Because we raise our families here. Because we are the community, we don’t see gaps and walk away, we see them, and we step in. We believe systems should work with people, not against them, and until they do, we’ll keep showing up.
When we stand by your side, you can breathe, knowing you will always be supported to get what you need.
Values we stand for
Wellbeing
Our people and participants feel safe, supported and valued.
Purpose
We advocate fiercely and never lose sight of why we exist.
Expertise
We are specialists, committed to excellence through continual learning and evidence-based practice.
Why you can trust us
Winner, 2025 Australian Disability Service Awards
Outstanding Support Coordination Provider (National).
Great Place to Work Certified, four years running
A certification earned entirely through staff feedback.
Full award history is on the Impact page.
