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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

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

02/02/2026

Last week, genU clients and staff travelled to Geelong for the Having a Say Conference, Australia’s largest self-advocacy and peer supported event, for three days full of big ideas, honest conversations and genuine connection.

Both genU staff and clients shared the stage and gave three different presentations about using your voice to support others, building client leadership, and creating big opportunities for the future. There was also live entertainment in the courtyard from the genU Connections media program, which brought people together in the best way.

Held at Deakin University Waterfront Campus and celebrating 25 years of VALID Having a Say, the conference reminded us how powerful it is when people with disability are listened to and supported to lead.

We’re proud of everyone who represented genU and shared their stories so openly. 💙

23/01/2026

Turn your experience into a qualification with RPL 🎓

Have years of hands-on experience but no formal qualification to show for it?

With Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) at genU Training, your real-world skills and knowledge can count toward a nationally recognised qualification - without starting from scratch.

RPL recognises what you already know, helping you:
- Get credit for your existing skills and experience
- Reduce study time and duplication
- Strengthen your resume and career prospects
- Take the next step in your professional journey sooner

Whether you’re looking to progress in your current role or open new career opportunities, genU Training can help you turn experience into recognition.

Find out if you’re eligible and learn more at https://www.genutraining.org.au/training-courses/

22/01/2026

A great day out on the greens at our recent All-Abilities Golf Day at 13th Beach Golf Links short course ⛳️

We joined in with our Adventure day program clients and local corporate partners for a fun, inclusive day of golf - special thanks to Golf Australia for hosting once again!

Need more information about genU’s social and community participation?
Find out more: https://www.genu.org.au/community-participation/
📩 connect@genu.org.au | ☎️ 1300 558 368

13/01/2026

For Ryan, good support means feeling understood. With genU’s Individual Support Services, he’s backed by a team that takes the time to build real connections, especially with his support worker Craig, who shares in his great sense of humour and who he shares a strong companionship with.

Ryan regularly heads out to AFL games, local footy and cricket around Launceston, with support arranged around his interests and sporting seasons. Behind the scenes, his support workers also help with domestic tasks and meal prep, supporting Ryan build healthier habits and day-to-day independence.

Need more information about genU’s Individual Support Services?
Find out more: www.genu.org.au/individual-support-and-allied-health
📧 connect@genu.org.au | 📞 1300 558 368

08/01/2026

Ricky enjoys the balance of independence and support in his daily life. With help from his genU support workers, he’s built routines that help him take pride in his home and look after himself.

From keeping up with laundry and household tasks to planning and preparing meals, Ricky is building healthy habits with support when he needs it. Spending time around his city of Launceston and staying connected with family are also important parts of his week.

Ricky’s story shows how the right support can make everyday life easier — without taking away independence.

Need more information about genU’s Individual Support Services?
Find out more: https://www.genu.org.au/individual-support-and-allied-health/
📧 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.