Hunter Region, Australia – Founded by Sarah MacRae, a mother, advocate, and passionate leader, 24/7 Care Disability Services and Activity Hub is transforming the lives of individuals with disabilities in the Hunter region. With a commitment to providing person-centered, inclusive, and compassionate support, the service has rapidly become a beacon of hope for families in need. The organization’s mission and vision focus on creating environments where individuals with disabilities can thrive socially, emotionally, physically, and spiritually, breaking down barriers to participation and inclusion in the community.
What began as a personal journey born out of necessity and driven by lived experience, has flourished into a highly respected disability support service offering a broad range of programs, from Day Programs focused on life skills and social engagement to Supported Independent Living (SIL), Short-Term Accommodation & Respite, and Employment Pathways. In addition, the hub organizes engaging Youth & School Holiday Programs, Events & Social Programs, and offers services such as Allied Health Coordination & Referrals, and Behaviour Support & Intervention Planning.
Sarah MacRae’s journey into founding 24/7 Care Disability Services is rooted in her experiences as the mother of a child with a disability. Her personal struggles with navigating a system that often overlooks children like her daughter are the driving forces behind the organization’s approach. Sarah’s determination to provide her daughter with a life of belonging, connection, and opportunity has become a cornerstone of the organization’s culture.
“I share our story to give voice to the voiceless,” says Sarah. “This isn’t just the story of my daughter; it’s the story of too many children with disabilities who are left behind. Our youth—especially those with disabilities—deserve more than just tolerance; they deserve opportunity, connection, and true belonging. We fight every day to make that vision a reality.”
The organization’s approach to care is distinctive. Unlike large corporate and clinical services, 24/7 Care Disability Services prides itself on its grassroots, community-first ethos. Their commitment to ensuring every participant is seen, heard, and valued in all aspects of their care is what sets them apart in the disability services sector. A core focus is the involvement of participants in decision-making processes and leadership roles, fostering a true sense of empowerment and ownership.
Sarah’s vision extends beyond just providing essential care; it’s about creating a movement that leads the way in compassionate, community-based disability support. Her leadership and commitment to diversity, inclusion, and advocacy have earned 24/7 Care Disability Services multiple accolades, including Women Changing the World Awards (Diversity & Inclusion) and AusMumpreneur Award (Best Community Service). The company has also been recognized as a finalist in several prestigious awards, such as the BX Business Excellence Awards and the Australian Women Small Business Champion Awards.
The 24/7 Care Disability Services team—comprising trained professionals who bring empathy, expertise, and a deep commitment to making a difference—is a vital part of the company’s success. With their expertise, each program is designed to nurture independence, dignity, and personal growth for every participant. The organization’s strong culture of belonging extends not just to the individuals it serves but to the staff and community as well.
What truly makes 24/7 Care Disability Services stand out is their holistic approach to support. Every program and service is built with a focus on innovation, joy, and empowerment. The team consistently strives to adapt and evolve to meet the real needs of the people they serve, ensuring they deliver both high-quality care and meaningful experiences. It’s a place where individuals not only find the support they need but also the freedom to express themselves, learn, and grow in a space that feels like family.
The organization’s commitment to creating inclusive environments where people of all abilities can flourish is clearly evident in their diverse range of offerings. 24/7 Care Disability Services offers a variety of programs tailored to meet the unique needs of each participant, providing them with the tools and support they need to live fulfilling lives. These services include, but are not limited to:
- Day Programs: Focused on enhancing life skills, fostering social engagement, and encouraging creative expression.
- Supported Independent Living (SIL): Offering individuals the support they need to live independently while remaining connected to the community.
- Short-Term Accommodation & Respite: Providing families with the respite they need, while ensuring participants receive care and support in a safe and engaging environment.
- Youth & School Holiday Programs: Offering fun and engaging activities during school breaks to keep young individuals active, social, and connected.
- Events & Social Programs: Regularly organized events like discos, glow parties, karaoke, and mini-Olympics, which promote community building and enjoyment.
- Employment Pathways & Microbusinesses: Helping individuals transition into meaningful work and entrepreneurship through specialized programs and mentoring.
- Allied Health Coordination & Referrals: Ensuring participants receive the appropriate therapeutic and allied health services necessary for their personal development.
Sarah’s journey from a mother advocating for her daughter to the founder of a recognized, award-winning disability services organization is both inspiring and empowering. It’s a testament to the power of turning personal challenges into a driving force for change. The organization’s deep roots in the community and its strong commitment to creating a supportive, inclusive environment make it a standout in the disability services sector.
“We are not just here to support; we are here to transform lives,” says Sarah. “It’s the smile of a participant finding their confidence, the laughter at a Friday night disco, and the relief of a parent knowing their child is in safe hands. We are more than a service—we are a movement of impact.”
24/7 Care Disability Services continues to grow, inspired by its mission to provide the highest quality support to individuals living with disabilities and their families. With its unwavering dedication to excellence, compassion, and community, it is poised to lead the way in redefining what disability care looks like in Australia.
For more information on the programs and services offered by 24/7 Care Disability Services, visit their Facebook page and Instagram.
