STEPS has been named a finalist in the 2026 Kismet Awards for Health + Disability Services in the ‘Supported Living Provider of the Year’ category.
The awards celebrate the people, providers, programs, and services making a meaningful impact in Australia’s disability, health, and care sectors.
This recognition highlights the outstanding work of STEPS and its Supported Independent Living (SIL) services, particularly the Buxton SIL House on the Sunshine Coast, where House Leader Cody and other STEPS team members provide innovative individualised support for participants Paul, Morgan and Nicholas.
At Buxton House, like any other STEPS SIL home, participants are supported to live with independence, dignity, and choice. Support is tailored to each person’s needs, goals, and interests to help them build their confidence and develop life skills while actively participating in their community. Check out our Friday Fun Days story for a look at the housemates’ close connections, along with their profile in a previous edition of our digital STEPS Community Support Newsletter.
The Buxton team takes a flexible, strengths-based approach, which has helped the participants achieve incredible outcomes. Morgan has flourished in paid roles at local cafés and was recently recognised as Employee of the Month by his retail workplace, while Paul’s commitment to volunteering saw him named Young Achiever of the Year at the 2025 Caloundra Community Awards. Nicholas has found employment at a local cafe, where he has been working since February, and continues to build his confidence and independence through tailored supports that promote his wellbeing, including outdoor recreational activities and exercise.
STEPS Community Support supports more than 200 NDIS participants across Queensland and Hobart, and has provided supported accommodation options for the past eight years, currently operating nine SIL properties.
Congratulations to the STEPS Community Support team and everyone who contributed to this nomination.
People’s Choice voting is now open
The community can also help STEPS take home another award!
As a finalist, STEPS is eligible for the 2026 People’s Choice Award. Public voting is now open, and supporters can cast their vote by registering online and selecting ‘STEPS’ under the ‘Supported Living Provider of the Year‘ category.
Every vote helps us shine a light on the life-changing impact of our individualised supports and the incredible achievements of the participants and team members who make our community a welcoming and empowering space every day.
The winners are set to be announced on Thursday 26 November 2026.
STEPS Supported Independent Living
Are you looking for SIL housing on the Sunshine Coast or in Hobart? Finding the right home and the right support is a big decision, and we are here to guide you every step of the way.
STEPS is currently accepting enquiries from female participants for a vacancy in our SIL home in Nirimba.
The tenant will join two women currently living in this modern, spacious home, which features open-plan living areas, a separate lounge, and an outdoor alfresco space.
Please visit our STEPS SIL webpage or get in touch with our friendly team today at 1800 312 742 or customercare@stepsgroup.com.au to learn more about your options and how we can help you take the next step towards independent living.
