A Legacy of Inclusion: The Shepparton Access Story

More than three decades ago, a quiet revolution began in a modest three-bedroom house on Edwad Street, Shepparton. It was here that Shepparton Access took root—not as a mainstream service, but as a movement born from necessity, compassion, and an unwavering belief in inclusion.

In the early 1990s, institutional closures and limited support options left many families in the Goulburn Valley region facing a difficult question: How do we ensure our loved ones with intellectual disabilities live with dignity, autonomy, and connection? Other service models—such as those trialled through TAFE programs—fell short in meeting the lived needs of the community. A new approach was urgently needed—one that embraced flexibility, empowerment, and community belonging.

A Community-Driven Beginning In 1993, the first Shepparton Access Advisory Committee was formed, gathering voices from Community Services Victoria, Shepparton South Community House, and local advocates. With support from Shepparton South Community House, Shepparton Access began operating under its auspices. From those early days, the goal was clear: to provide people with intellectual disabilities access to meaningful day services—on their own terms.

A Space to Grow – Shepparton Access & The Mechanics Institute
On December 22, 2003, Shepparton Access celebrated a significant milestone—the move from Edward Street to a new home at the Mechanics Institute. This transition marked the beginning of fresh opportunities in 2004, opening the door to expanded programs and deeper community inclusion. The move was made possible through a valued collaboration between the Mechanics Institute, the Department of Human Services, and Shepparton Access, who together created a purpose-built facility designed to support people with disabilities in developing independent living skills and becoming active members of their community.

A New Expansion Unfoldered between 2010 and 2012, a visionary building project transformed the former Regional Library site into a vibrant, accessible space, thanks to a joint venture involving the Trustees of the Mechanics Institute, the Department of Human Services, the Department of Planning and Community Development, Greater Shepparton City Council, and Shepparton Access. The refurbishment extended the structure forward to meet the street frontage, resulting in a welcoming and dynamic environment completed in May 2012.

Forging an Independent Path By 1995, Shepparton Access had evolved into an incorporated association. This marked a significant turning point, empowering the organisation to shape its own direction through a five-year strategic plan and establish a professional foundation for growth. While the setting was humble, the vision was bold: to foster inclusion, independence, and self-determination through high-quality, participant-centred programs.

Over 30 Years of Impact Today, Shepparton Access has grown into a dynamic Learning & Lifestyle Hub—providing individual and group activities programs to NDIS-funded participants across the Goulburn Valley. Whether it’s gardening initiatives that nourish both people and the environment at EcoPark or our social enterprises – EcoStore, EcoCafe & EcoCatering that build confidence and skills. Shepparton Access remains leading the way, focussing on each day – real learning, personal growth and building independence through engaging, educational, and meaningful programs. Empowering our participants to learn, connect, and take real steps toward more independent lives.

As we look ahead, we carry forward the values that sparked our journey—compassion, innovation, and inclusion. The story of Shepparton Access is not just about service delivery; it’s the power of group activities being  valuable and the kind of support that connects to our community and becomes life changing.

Nothing about us, Without Us

Our Vision