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(02) 9841 4444

• Information and support • Social connections • Advocacy

Our Why

We work to support all people with Down syndrome to achieve their full potential in all life stages. 
We champion the rights of people with Down syndrome to be valued and to take their rightful place in the community.

Our Strategic Plan 2021-23

View the Strategic Plan

Your Support

The work we do is not possible without your generous support. If you wish to support the work we do and make a donation, you can do so online or please phone us on 02 9841 4444.

Our Impact

The Down Syndrome Association of NSW was established in 1980 by parents of young people with Down syndrome. As the children of the founding members grew to adolescence and adulthood, so too our services extended to all life stages. We now provide information and support, advocacy, capacity building workshops, training in schools, community participation programs, pre-natal expert advice, new parent resources and support and specialist employment preparation and connection.

We are an enthusiastic team of professionals with expertise in our relevant fields of service provision, support and advocacy.  Some of us have lived experience with a family member with Down syndrome, some bring a range of expertise and industry experience.  We are here to support you – all working together to help our members with Down syndrome achieve their full potential.

Down Syndrome NSW accepts membership via phone 9841 4444 or email. Once we receive your request, it will be presented to our Board for approval, in line with our Constitution. Membership is free and you can find out more here

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Wonderful to attend the NSW Budget Briefing Breakfast held yesterday by NSW Council of Social Service - NCOSS, where we heard from the Treasurer and Shadow Treasurer on what this budget means in real terms for the social services sector.

With a resounding focus on relieving cost of living pressures for all, the Treasurer spoke to investments in Out Of Home Care and housing, though there is little dedicated specifically to disability.Down Syndrome NSW CEO, Emily Caska reflects, “Easing cost of living pressures certainly helps people with Down syndrome, their families and carers, though what isn’t factored into this Budget is the additional costs of disability.”She adds, “People with Down syndrome are living longer than ever before - a milestone to be celebrated yet it presents us with new systemic challenges of which housing is key. The provision of available, affordable, suitable and accessible housing in the right location to stay connected to community is one current challenge, coupled with support to find housing, navigate the complex system and receive support within housing once attained. The infrastructure investments in the Budget to boost housing supply are welcomed, though the approach remains one dimensional with no investment in accessibility or support for those with intellectual disability.”In looking at other key elements of the Budget, Emily notes, “We know that our loved ones with Down syndrome don’t love their lives in silos nor in terms of funding bounds, whether that be state or federal, or departmental. Intersectionality is an area we will continue to advocate for - seeing the person holistically and investing accordingly delivers better outcomes as well as fiscal efficiency.”We look forward to continuing to work closely with the NSW Government to ensure that all people with Down syndrome are valued, active and contributing citizens in NSW. ... See MoreSee Less

6 days ago
Wonderful to attend the NSW Budget Briefing Breakfast held yesterday by NSW Council of Social Service - NCOSS, where we heard from the Treasurer and Shadow Treasurer on what this budget means in real terms for the social services sector.

With a resounding focus on relieving cost of living pressures for all, the Treasurer spoke to investments in Out Of Home Care and housing, though there is little dedicated specifically to disability.

Down Syndrome NSW CEO, Emily Caska reflects, “Easing cost of living pressures certainly helps people with Down syndrome, their families and carers, though what isn’t factored into this Budget is the additional costs of disability.”

She adds, “People with Down syndrome are living longer than ever before - a milestone to be celebrated yet it presents us with new systemic challenges of which housing is key. 

The provision of available, affordable, suitable and accessible housing in the right location to stay connected to community is one current challenge, coupled with support to find housing, navigate the complex system and receive support within housing once attained. 

The infrastructure investments in the Budget to boost housing supply are welcomed, though the approach remains one dimensional with no investment in accessibility or support for those with intellectual disability.”

In looking at other key elements of the Budget, Emily notes, “We know that our loved ones with Down syndrome don’t love their lives in silos nor in terms of funding bounds, whether that be state or federal, or departmental. 

Intersectionality is an area we will continue to advocate for - seeing the person holistically and investing accordingly delivers better outcomes as well as fiscal efficiency.”

We look forward to continuing to work closely  with the NSW Government to ensure that all people with Down syndrome are valued, active and contributing citizens in NSW.Image attachmentImage attachment+1Image attachment

Bundy + Bridie, celebrating his doggo birthday in style 🤍 ... See MoreSee Less

6 days ago
Bundy + Bridie, celebrating his doggo birthday in style 🤍

Boxing fun this afternoon 🙌🏼🤍 ... See MoreSee Less

6 days ago
Boxing fun this afternoon 🙌🏼🤍

FLASH SALE

Because we love you! 🤍For today only, seize the chance to slash 50% off your admission to our amazing, fun filled, jam packed family day out at Step UP! 2023, all to raise awareness and much needed funds for Down syndrome!Adult tickets will be marked down from $20 to just $10, and children's tickets will be reduced from $10 to a mere $5!Act fast because this flash sale will conclude at midnight tonight!Purchase here: ... See MoreSee Less

6 days ago
FLASH SALE
Because we love you! 🤍

For today only, seize the chance to slash 50% off your admission to our amazing, fun filled, jam packed family day out at Step UP! 2023, all to raise awareness and much needed funds for Down syndrome!

Adult tickets will be marked down from $20 to just $10, and childrens tickets will be reduced from $10 to a mere $5!

Act fast because this flash sale will conclude at midnight tonight!

Purchase here:
https://www.mycause.com.au/events/stepupnsw2023

Get In Touch

Postal address: PO Box 3173 North Parramatta NSW 1750
Office Hours: Monday – Thursday 9:00am – 4:00pm

Phone: (02) 9841 4444
Toll free: 1800 811 629
Email: admin@dsansw.org.au

Feedback and Complaints

Reg Charity No. CFN11321
ABN 39 023 586 389  

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