Life Update: Josh’s Next Chapter in His Toowoomba SDA Home

It’s been a few years since Josh first moved into the Toowoomba Specialist Disability Accommodation apartments – and what a few years it’s been! We recently caught up with him to hear how life has unfolded since finding a home designed to help him live more independently. 

Back then, Josh, a 32-year-old university student from Toowoomba, shared just how challenging life was before the move: 

“Access at my parents’ house was very difficult. I had to go into the laundry to be able to turn my wheelchair to get into the bathroom. I couldn’t do my own washing at home. It was very hard to move around and cook in the kitchen. I have to work hard to manage my fatigue, and I was using so much energy just on basic tasks.” 

Josh knew things needed to change if he was going to focus on what really mattered – and in the few years since moving in, the change has truly been life-changing. When we asked Josh how things are going in his SDA apartment now, he told us: 

“Having everything within reach has increased my independence.” 

He also shared how some of the built-in smart features make daily living much easier: 

“The automation is good and having a phone app makes life so much easier. Being on the bottom floor, I’ll take Ruby out before we go to bed, and there will be times where I’ve forgotten to press the lock, and I am able to just do all that from the app when I’m in bed.” 

Josh says the support staff have also made a big difference: “The support staff do a great job here. They provide excellent support in a timely manner, assisting myself and other residents at the highest quality”

Another big part of Josh’s life now is Ruby, his loyal companion for the past two and a half years. “I’ve had Ruby for two and a half years, which has really helped me a lot. And being able to have that little bit of responsibility, and a companion, is the best part.”  

When he has the chance, Josh loves catching up with other residents – Ruby especially enjoys playing with Wynston, another resident’s pet. They often get together once a month, giving Josh a chance to socialise and stay connected with his neighbours. 

Since moving in, Josh has reached a major milestone – graduating with a Bachelor of Human Services & Counselling earlier this year. “I went to my graduation and now I am looking at creating my own counselling practice and doing sessions over the phone. I’m looking at gaining clients – I’ve got most things ready like my business cards, insurance and my invoicing and scheduling system.” 

With his accessible home as a base, Josh can build his business his way: “Makes things easier – I don’t have to be selective with jobs. I can stay home with Ruby and work my own hours. I will be getting my second bedroom set up as an office where I will work and do reporting.” 

As you can see, Josh loves his new home. It’s taken the difficulty out of everyday tasks and given him the freedom to focus his energy where it matters most – building his counselling practice, helping others, and staying connected with people. 

Josh’s story shows just how much the right home and support can open up what’s possible.