The Power of Collaboration in the NDIS: Why Safe Homes and Strong Networks Matter

As the year comes to a close, many NDIS participants face one of the most challenging periods of the calendar year. December can amplify loneliness, overwhelm, and disengagement — and for providers, it becomes a crucial time to stay present, responsive, and connected.

In a recent conversation between Residence Revival’s Matt Rasheed and Tomika Hillebrand of Hillebrand Shaw & Co., both leaders reflected on the real‑world pressures participants face, the demands on frontline teams, and the importance of collaboration in creating meaningful change.

Why December Hits Hard

For many participants, the holiday season can trigger isolation, increased anxiety, and disrupted routines. Support coordinators and service providers often carry the weight of ensuring people remain safe and supported, even while their own teams are stretched thin.

Tomika explains, “It’s a very isolating and lonely time for many of the participants we support. As much as we’d love a break, we stay open to make sure no one is left without help.”

The Importance of Safe Living Environments

A recurring theme in the discussion was the link between a participant’s home environment and their overall ability to engage with support.

Unsafe or cluttered homes can prevent allied health teams from entering, limit progress toward goals, and even trigger disengagement.

Matt reflects, “If we don’t understand the environment, other professionals can’t even begin their work. Making the home safe is often the first step to making everything else possible.”

Through trauma‑informed decluttering, hoarding intervention, and consistent cleaning support, Residence Revival helps create the stability participants need to reconnect with services — and regain confidence in their daily life.

Reporting That Makes a Difference

Both organisations emphasise the value of high‑quality reporting in NDIS planning, change‑of‑circumstances requests, and long‑term strategy.

Tomika notes, “Receiving detailed reports without needing to chase them is a game changer. It helps us build strong evidence and secure the funding participants genuinely need.”

Residence Revival’s FastTrack reporting system ensures support coordinators receive timely updates, photos, and documented outcomes — empowering better planning and reducing the risk of participants falling through the cracks.

Looking Toward 2026

With sector reforms on the horizon, providers are feeling the pressure of uncertainty. But Tomika remains optimistic:

“We will make the adjustments we have to. We will survive just as we always have — and do our best with what we’ve been given.”

Both leaders agree: strong provider partnerships and a shared commitment to dignity and safety will continue to guide their work in the year ahead.

At Residence Revival, our mission remains clear:

If you’re a Support Coordinator, Plan Manager, or Allied Health professional supporting someone living with hoarding, squalor, or home‑based overwhelm, we’re here to help.

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