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Monday 9am - 5pm Tuesday 9am - 5pm Wednesday 9am - 5pm Thursday 9am - 5pm Friday 9am - 5pm

genU

Building genUinely inclusive communities through disability support, seniors, training and employment services.
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At genU we’re united in our mission to empower people across the country to reach their full potential. Our story started in 1952 when a small group of parents in Geelong dreamed of a world for their children where disability would not stand in the way of their opportunities and potential. Today, we have more than 3600 staff and volunteers providing support and services across Australia nationally. Every day our work supports people through our disability support, seniors services, training and employment services for job seekers, students and business partners in the community. As a ‘profit for purpose organisation we reinvest back into areas that help to build more inclusive communities. The genU family includes genU Training, MatchWorks, Activ Foundation, Seasons Cafe and Catering, The Otway Kitchen, Eastern Hub Geelong, Barwarre Gardens Retirement Village and St Laurence Park Retirement Village.. Our services and support include:
• Accommodation
• Allied Health
• Employment Pathways & Supported Employment
• Home Care Packages
• Individual Support Services
• Inclusion Programs
• Low Intensity Mental Health Support
• Outreach
• Participate Lifestyle & Recreation Programs
• Residential Aged Care
• Retirement Living
• Support for Carers

12/03/2026

A welcoming SDA home close to the coast, shops and all the local services that Bunbury has to offer.

This property includes:
• Purpose built accessible design
• 24/7 support
• Comfortable shared living

A place to feel at home while building independence and connection.

Explore our disability housing and living options 👉 https://www.genu.org.au/properties/prosser-point-living/

Want to speak to a housing expert?
✉️ connect@genu.org.au | 📞 1300 558 368

06/03/2026

This International Women’s Day, we are celebrating all women and championing their safety, voice and empowerment. We are proud to share the voices and wisdom from some of our genU women. Their reflections remind us of the importance of listening, learning and continuing to create a world where every woman feels safe, heard and empowered.

Featuring:
• Helen Cox — Emeritus Professor, retired neurological nurse, author and genU Barwarre Gardens Retirement Village resident
• Sharon Frost — Team Leader, People and Culture
• Michelle George — Supported Employee, Timber and Property Care
• Melissa Dunn — Chief Quality and Practice Officer, Quality and Practice
• Penny Campbell — Quality Administration, Support at Home

05/03/2026

Meet James and Rohan.

As a Vacancy and Engagement Coordinator at genU, James works closely with people like Rohan, to connect them with housing that truly fits their needs.

For James, it’s never just about filling a house vacancy. It’s about finding the right housemates and creating a home.

James partners with residents, their families and support teams to explore suitable SIL and SDA options, thoughtfully match housemates, and support a smooth transition into a new environment.

James understands that the right home can build independence, confidence and connection, while giving families peace of mind.

Because for him, and our Housing and Engagement Coordinators across the country, it’s about more than just a house. It’s about finding the right home.

Explore our disability housing and living options: https://www.genu.org.au/disability-accommodation/

Want to speak to a housing expert like James?
✉️ connect@genu.org.au | 📞 1300 558 368

27/02/2026

We love seeing our community members step into the spotlight.

Hezekiah has submitted an original artwork to the City of Cockburn's Show Off! exhibition and is excited to attend opening night. Lately he has discovered a new talent for acrylic markers, bringing a pop culture twist to his latest piece and building his skills every week.

At our Fremantle Hub, Heze keeps busy across visual arts, performing arts and swimming, while still making time for his love of cosplay and fan culture. That balance is what our day programs are all about, supporting people to explore their interests, build confidence and connect with community.

Learn more about our Community Participation programs:
🔗 https://www.genu.org.au/community-participation/
📧 connect@genu.org.au | 📞 1300 558 368

26/02/2026

genU Training C.A.F.E Food & Beverage Essentials Program was delivered in partnership with our valued collaborators at The Salvation Army Employment Plus in Braddon, ACT.

Eighteen enthusiastic participants completed five days of hands-on training, building practical hospitality skills designed to get them job-ready and confident in real workplace settings.

During the program, participants:
✔ Mastered espresso extraction and milk texturing
✔ Delivered efficient table and tray service
✔ Created layered mocktails and non-alcoholic beverages
✔ Processed cash and EFTPOS transactions
✔ Prepared lunch service using safe and hygienic food practices
✔ Connected with local employers and employment pathways

At genU Training - RTO 5553, we’re passionate about supporting learners to gain practical skills while connecting with real job opportunities in their communities.

A huge shoutout to our incredible Training Coordinator, Jean Paul Bates, whose organisation, support and on-the-ground commitment help make programs like this possible.

20/02/2026

Patrick has dedicated his life to advocacy, creativity and making sure lived experience is heard, whilst always embracing new opportunities along the way.

Now, he’s entering into an exciting new chapter: moving into his first true home at Derwent Place in Rokeby, where he’ll experience independent living for the first time, supported through Supported Independent Living (SIL) with genU.

👉 Discover Patrick’s inspiring story as he shares reflections on disability, community, creativity and the life-changing impact of having a home that supports independence: https://bit.ly/3NRHgV9

If you’d like to learn more about joining Patrick at Derwent Place, contact the genU team to book a tour.

📩 connect@genu.org.au | ☎️ 1300 558 368

19/02/2026

We’re so excited to finally reveal the incredible transformation of The Zone in Hobart, brought to life by Tasmanian mural artist Becski Design.

From brainstorming ideas and choosing colours to getting hands-on in the creative process, our participants were involved every step of the way — and the finished result is something truly special.

A huge thank you to Becski Design and our amazing creative crew for helping turn this space into a vibrant reflection of community, inclusion and imagination. 💙

What do you think of the final look?

13/02/2026

Support that helps you feel safe, in control and thriving 💙

genU’s Behaviour Support team works with individuals, families and support networks to understand behaviours as communication — and help create positive, lasting change.

Through personalised Behaviour Support Plans, our practitioners help people improve their wellbeing and smash their goals (just like Amanda, with support from Nicola).

We can support with:
• Getting to know you to find out what is working and what is not
• Improving quality of life and participation
• Empower you and your network with skills, knowledge and opportunity
• Minimising restrictive practices

📍Available across Victoria (Melbourne, Geelong, Bellarine Peninsula, Surf Coast) and Western Australia (Perth, South West, Mid West + surrounds)

Looking to refer someone for Positive Behaviour Support in these regions?
Find out more: https://www.genu.org.au/individual-support-and-allied-health/behaviour-support/
📧 connect@genu.org.au | 📞 1300 558 368

06/02/2026

Level up your social skills through gaming 🎮✨

genU Gamer is a welcoming space for young people to connect, build confidence and make real friendships — all through games, role play and pop culture.
Newbie or expert, there’s a place for you.

📍Geelong | Werribee | Colac | Northcote + online options available for regional, remote and interstate participants

Need more information about Gamer?
Find out more: https://www.genu.org.au/community-participation/gamer/
📧 connect@genu.org.au | 📞 1300 558 368

05/02/2026

What an unforgettable night at Optus Stadium! 🎶

Kicking off the Australian leg of the Loop Tour in Perth, a group of clients from our South and North Metro teams were lucky enough to experience the magic of Ed Sheeran live, thanks to Optus Stadium generously gifting genU tickets as part of our charity partnership.

As Optus Stadium’s charity partner, we’re so grateful for opportunities like this that create joy, connection and lasting memories for people living with disability.

A huge thank you to Optus Stadium for helping make this fantastic experience happen. 💙

04/02/2026

🌱 Community Nursery Plant Sale – South Geelong

The genU Community Nursery in South Geelong has a selection of older, well-established plants available at reduced prices. These plants are healthy, taller stock and ready to be planted straight into local gardens.

Prices:
• Tube stock – $1 each
• 6-inch pots – $5 each or 5 for $20

📍212–216 Swanston Street, South Geelong
⏰Weekdays | 8.30am–3.00pm
📆Sale runs throughout February (while stock lasts)

All proceeds support genU’s local disability and senior programs, helping create more inclusive communities across the Geelong region.

Find out more 👉 https://www.genu.org.au/community-nurseries/
📩 connect@genu.org.au | ☎️ 1300 558 368

03/02/2026

Patrick has spent his life advocating for change, creating space for lived experience, and saying yes to new adventures.

Now, he’s preparing for a new chapter — moving into his first real home at Derwent Place in Rokeby, where he’ll live independently for the first time with Supported Independent Living provided by genU.

👉 Read Patrick’s powerful story, where he reflects on disability, creativity, community, and why having a home that supports independence can influence meaningful change: https://bit.ly/3NRHgV9

If you would like to join Patrick at Derwent Place in Rokeby, enquire with the genU team to book a tour.
📩 connect@genu.org.au | ☎️ 1300 558 368

Address

21-29 Reynolds Road
Geelong, VIC
3216

Opening Hours

Monday	9am - 5pm
Tuesday	9am - 5pm
Wednesday	9am - 5pm
Thursday	9am - 5pm
Friday	9am - 5pm

Website

http://www.genu.org.au/

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The genU story

genU has been 60 years in the making. Bringing together the best of two trusted and respected organisations, Karingal and St Laurence, genU builds on this experience, adding a new ambition: to become the leader in what we do.

We want everyone’s lives to be happier and healthier, especially people with disabilities, the ageing and those experiencing disadvantage.