“It feels like paradise”
Pip’s journey to independent living
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When Pip moved into her new apartment, she felt something she hadn’t felt in a long time: complete freedom.
“It feels like it’s my freedom. I can do whatever I want! I like watching movies in the loungeroom and just relaxing in my own space. It’s the best feeling in the world.”
Pip is one of many adults with Down syndrome taking bold steps toward independence. After an 18-month wait, she moved into a beautifully designed, socially connected apartment block developed by Nightingale—a community-first housing initiative. Her story is one of pride, resilience, and the deep joy of living life on her own terms.
From dream to reality
Pip’s journey to independent living wasn’t an overnight decision. While waiting for her new home, she rented a small apartment and lived with housemates. Pip was more than ready to say goodbye to both family and housemates and say hello to living on her own.
During the lead-up, Nightingale made sure all future residents were part of the process. Pip and her family attended regular meetings and even had the chance to watch the demolition of the old factory that once stood on the site. On opening night, they took part in a powerful smoking ceremony led by the Traditional Custodians of the land.
“We got to know our neighbours before moving in,” Pip says. “They’re all friendly and lovely. I love getting to know them.”
Life on her terms
For Pip, independence means more than just a set of keys. “It means I can mingle with my neighbours, make my own choices and meet new people.”
“Each day is like a blank canvas,” Pip says poetically. “When I wake up, I add colour to it with every activity I do and everywhere I go. Then at night when I go to bed, the canvas goes blank, ready for a new day.”
Pip works at PowerCor as a connections officer and spends her free time writing songs and spending time with her partner and neighbours. Recently she helped out as a runner on her neighbour’s short film. “It’s like a little family in our building,” she says. “We have events all the time that get posted on the Community Notice Board downstairs.”
Support and strength
While Pip lives independently, she’s not alone. She receives support from her parents and a few support workers. A family friend helps with cleaning once a fortnight, and Pip independently budgets and organises her meals for the week. “I do a meal plan, send it to Mum and then on Fridays my support worker and I do the grocery shopping together.”
The current cost of living crisis is affecting many Australians. Pip says she understands the importance of managing money and making a plan. “If you want to live by yourself, make sure you talk to your parents about what you want. Communication is important. Be honest about your life and how you feel. It’s hard at first and money is always needed but if you have the support you can do anything.”
Learning and growth
Like all of us, Pip has had a few learning moments. One in particular stands out. “I wrapped a bowl in foil and put it in the microwave. It turned into a fire! I didn’t know foil couldn’t go in the microwave. It was scary but my neighbours helped me! I got a new microwave and I’ll never do that again.” Despite the mishap, Pip’s pride in how far she’s come is clear. “I’m proud of being able to do activities I want to do, make my own choices and catch public transport on my own.”
A place to call home
When asked what she’d say to the people who build Community Housing, Pip doesn’t hesitate. “I see people living on the streets. Sitting in front of grocery storesin the cold. They don’t have a home, they don’t have anywhere to go. Everyone deserves a place to call home. It’s important people have a home so they can feel safe.”
Pip says she hopes to stay in her apartment “for a very long time 100%” and that the memory of her first night “felt like paradise.”
Final words
Pip’s story is a powerful reminder that independence is not just about where you live. It’s about dignity, choice and belonging. In the face of long waitlists and growing housing pressure, she stands as proof of what’s possible when community, support and determination come together.

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