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Community Living Initiative – Cairns

Cairns Community Living is a safe place of belonging for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples with a disability.

Come Home Come Heal Come Rest

Come Home, Come Heal, Come Rest represents three inter-related core strategies oriented to improve understanding of and response to brain injury and cognitive impairment amongst Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Brain injury key facts & figures

Assessing the Disability Needs of Indigenous Prisoners

Synapse is working with Griffith University to review the processes for assessing the disability needs of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander prisoners.

Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Peoples

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples with disabilities have much lower rates of access to appropriate services and supports including the NDIS.

Man being helped to slice by support worker, while another looks on

NDIS Services

Registered NDIS pre-planning, support coordination and specialised services to ensure you, or the person you are caring for, get the most suitable support.

Housing and Homelessness

Home is where the heart is. But for people with brain injury we know this is frequently not the case, with many experiencing housing instability, living in aged care or in housing that does not meet their needs.

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)

Those providing assessment and support within the NDIS should have appropriate education and training about brain injury and the cultural needs of Indigenous Australians.

Child Protection, Youth and Family Services

Adverse life experiences can influence vulnerability to disadvantage including violence, trauma and substance (AOD) misuse, all of which can lead to brain injury.

Domestic and Family Violence

Synapse is working to respond to the unique needs of people with brain injury as a result of domestic violence, contributing to improved outcomes.

Murri Court Pilot Project

In 2018-2019 Synapse partnered with the Brisbane Murri Court to complete a pilot project in response to the need for culturally safe screening for brain injury and complex disability in the Murri Court system.

In Hospital and at Home Support

Our Family Liaison Program provides practical support and information to family members and carers of people who have a brain injury during hospital, rehabilitation and the transition home.  

Housing Options

Information and practical housing support options to help you or someone you support live in the home and community of their choice.

The Guddi Way Screen

The Guddi Way Screen is an online, secure and automated platform built from evidence and stakeholder consultation. The screen identifies cognitive impairment and needs within a culturally informed and validated process.

Yarn Up Employment

Throughout 2020 we will be working with Aboriginal communities and Disability Employment Service providers across Western Australia to develop new, culturally informed resources to support the delivery of employment services.

Community Living Initiative

Cairns Community Living is a safe place of belonging for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples with a disability.

Justice and Corrections

We understand the need for appropriate disability identification and referral processes to better support people with brain injury subject or at risk of custodial sentences and reduce recidivism.

Synapse History

Since our beginning as Headway Queensland, Synapse has grown to have national reach and become Australia’s Brain Injury Organisation.

Direct Support

Tailored personal support across aspects of daily living, enabling you or someone you support to participate in desired community, vocational and educational activities.

Yarn Up about the NDIS

We have resources designed for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to start conversations about the NDIS and provide examples of some of the types of supports and services available.

Recovery and Rehab

A good rehabilitation program is vital to optimise recovery following brain injury.

Rural and Remote

People with brain injury living in rural and remote locations have significantly less access to services and supports, due to the lack of availability in these areas.

Feedback and Complaints

It is the policy of Synapse that customers who have contact with, or access our services have the right to lodge a complaint, make comment and provide feedback if they are unsatisfied or concerned with the treatment or support they receive.

Staff member wearing headset working at desk

Information & Referral

Our Information & Referral team provides specialist information and advice to help manage the impacts of brain injury and better navigate the systems of available care and support.

Our Mission, Vision and Values

When Alwyn Ricci founded Synapse (then Headway) thirty-five years ago, it was to make a genuine and practical difference to the lives of people impacted by brain injury and disability. This same passion and commitment continue to drive us forward today.

Ageing support

Ageing support helps the health and wellbeing of Ageing Australians impacted by brain injury.

Jayden Alexanderson

Jayden suffered a traumatic brain injury after a motorcycle accident. Following initial recovery, he recognised a need to discover new hobbies and social activities to stay active and connected despite his ‘new normal’ living with brain injury.

Support For Carers and Family

Ensure you are equipped to care for someone with a brain injury by building a community of like-minded people around you.

Community Hub

No matter where you live, there’s a number of ways you can connect to, and develop meaningful relationships with,…

Advocacy

Advocacy services for you or someone you care for to ensure that rights, interests and needs are upheld across a range of disability systems and services.

ABI The Facts

ABI The Facts is a comprehensive brain injury resource for professionals, individuals and families alike - it provides simple explanations of complex medical terms and delivers guidance for every stage of the journey.

Our Services

We support individuals and organisations at every stage of their journey with practical solutions to the everyday challenges associated with brain injury.

Support Us

Whether it is through fundraising events and activities, workplace giving or corporate social responsibility, there’s a variety of ways that you can support us.

Ageing

We know that for people over 65, there is an increased incidence of conditions that lead to brain injury including stroke, Parkinson’s disease, dementia disorders and injury through falls.

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)

We are committed to increasing awareness about FASD, particularly in relation to people who may be undiagnosed and at risk of homelessness and/or engagement with the criminal justice system.

BrainBank Panel

The BrainBank Panel is a peer connection panel, operated by and for people who have lived experience of brain injury.

Training & Education

Unique, specialised training to help you and your team better understand the needs of people impacted by brain injury.

Julian Saavedra

Julian suffered a traumatic brain injury in a motor vehicle accident in 2010. Since then he has adapted to life with a brain injury, sharing his story with others and offering understanding for those going through similar experiences.

Court Link

Court Link is the Queensland Courts integrated court assessment, referral and support program. Synapse is delivering the pilot Court Link Community Support Service (CLCS) in Cairns QLD.

Why Our Work Matters

We are tackling the complex issues that contribute to the prevalence and impact of brain injury and continue cycles of disadvantage and marginalisation for many individuals and their communities.

Understanding Brain Injury

While every brain injury is different, we have a range of information on hand that can help explain the impacts.

Brain Injury Awareness Week

Brain Injury Awareness Week (21 – 27 August 2023) explores how brain injury is more than you see, think and feel.

Community Rules

The Brain Injury Forum exists to provide you with a safe space to discuss your experiences. Our Community Rules outline the values that should guide your discussions and provide further detail on how Synapse staff moderate the forum.

Support Coordination

Synapse offers culturally appropriate Support Coordination services for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Legal and Advocacy

Advocacy ensures justice and the fundamental human needs, rights and interests of people impacted by brain injury.

Support For People with Brain Injury

Our peer support community offers people with a brain injury the opportunity to connect with others to socialise, share experiences and feel understood and supported.

Our Board and Leadership

The Synapse Leadership Team is responsible for providing strategic and operational management. The team has a diversity of specialist disability, health, research and corporate skills. Our Board members provide a broad range of experience in governance, finance, operations, disability, communications and health.

BrainBank Podcast

The BrainBank Podcast will answer your questions and connect you to community programs and services to help you live the life you want.

Careers

Synapse-Australia's Brain Injury Organisation, is expanding nationally, creating a remarkable opportunity for you to be at the forefront of change as a part of the Synapse team.

Creating Real Change

We are passionate about creating change across Australia by developing an evidence base to connect knowledge, policy, services and systems that address complex issues surrounding brain injury.

Whistleblower Policy

Partners

Synapse partners with research institutions, organisations and government bodies to create change for those impacted by brain injury.

Our Research & Work

Wurri-Wurri Outreach

Our Wurri-Wurri Outreach in Queensland’s Far North is all about respecting our Elders. Together, in partnership with our Elders, we can keep them strong, both mentally and physically.

Family and Carers

Caring for a family member with a brain injury can be challenging, and it is important to remember that carers also need support.

Make a Donation

Help us to connect people impacted by brain injury to specialist information, support and services.

Facebook Groups

Join one of our safe and supportive Facebook Groups for people with a brain injury, their carers and extended community.

Services for Organisations

Improve your understanding of brain injury and ability to provide appropriate support to people affected.

Women Exiting the Corrections System

In 2018 Synapse partnered with the NSW Department of Justice and Guthrie House, a not-for-profit transitional service for women exiting the prison system, to support women who may have a brain injury.

About Synapse

Synapse is Australia’s Brain Injury Organisation. Synapse provides a range of support services for people who have…

ABI The Facts – Sixth Edition

ABI The Facts is a comprehensive brain injury resource for professionals, individuals and families alike – it provides simple explanations of complex medical terms and delivers guidance for every stage of the journey.

Effects of Brain Injury

The long term effects of brain injury are different for each person but can be addressed with proper management and support.

Causes of Brain Injury

Almost everything we do, say and think is controlled by our brain, so when our brain is injured, it has the potential to affect every aspect of life.

Contact Us

Get in touch with us today to make an enquiry or find out more about our services, programs and projects for people impacted by brain injury.

Synapse Blog

From events and special announcements, to updates on our support services and research, there's always lots happening at Synapse.

Personal Stories

Hear the stories of people who have been directly impacted by brain injury including people with a brain injury, their families and carers.

Fact Sheets

Impact on Families

The Importance of Family after a Brain Injury

The care needs of people affected by a brain injury often fall informally onto their parents, spouse or siblings.

A Parents Guide

Protecting your family’s wellbeing

In the aftermath of your child acquiring a brain injury it can be easy to neglect your family. Caring for a child with a brain injury can take a great deal of time and energy. It's easy for everyone else's needs to get side-lined, and difficult to get the balance right.

Recovery and Rehab

Recovery Tips

Although the degree of recovery is largely determined by the nature and extent of the injury, the level of engagement in rehabilitation also significantly affects recovery outcomes.

Physical

Sexual changes

Acquired brain injury (ABI) can have a number of consequences for an individual’s sexual functioning.

A Parents Guide

Balancing risk and independence for children with a brain injury

Growing up involves taking risks. This is normal as young people ‘test the waters’ and move towards independence and adulthood.

Recovery and Rehab

Guide to Low Cost Rehab

Your family member is discharged from hospital and you are ready to continue their rehabilitation. The steps listed below may serve as a guide if you wish to develop a program using free or low-cost resources which exist in your community.

A Parents Guide

Your Child’s Development

A brain injury can disrupt the long and complicated process to move from childhood through to being a mature adult.

Social

Social Skills and Confidence

Social skills and confidence can both be affected following an acquired brain injury.

Recovery and Rehab

Brain injury rehabilitation: an introduction

Rehabilitation refers to a variety of therapies and support services available to people following the acute phase of recovery, once a person is medically stable.

A Parents Guide

Building social skills

Children and young people with a brain injury may have difficulty with the social skills that most of us take for granted.

Cognitive

Problems with Organising

Most people with an ABI will initially find some difficulty with prioritising, sequencing,organising, starting, and completing tasks.

A Parents Guide

Language and Living Skills

Language and everyday living skills may need particular attention to ensure that a child with a brain injury recovers to the fullest extent possible over the years.

Diet and Nutrition for BI

A healthy diet is an essential key to maximizing your brain’s potential after a brain injury.

Impact on Families

Self-Care for Carers and Family Members

Carers need to maintain their own health and wellbeing as part of their caring role.

Causes of Brain Injury

Degenerative Conditions

There are a number of degenerative conditions that lead to brain injury. Dementia is a category of brain diseases that result in memory loss and deterioration of speech, motor skills and cognitive functioning as it progresses.

A Parents Guide

Challenging behaviour in children

Regardless of the effects of a brain injury, parents can still bring out their children’s strengths, help them build resilience, and enable them to develop to their full potential.

Causes of Brain Injury

Infections and Diseases

Infections that cause swelling in the brain or the membrane that surrounds the brain and spinal cord (meninges) can result in acquired brain injury (ABI).

Reintegration

Returning to studies

Survivors of a brain injury who have done very well in their recovery may still face significant challenges in returning to their studies.

Indigenous Australians

Domestic and Family Violence

Domestic violence is when a person abuses and/or physically hurts their partner. Family violence is when a person abuses and/or physically hurts their family.

Recovery and Rehab

Equipment and Lifestyle Aids

Equipment and lifestyle aids have a role to play in helping people regain some or all of their independence after a brain injury.

Impact on Families

The Importance of Family After Brain Injury

The impact of a brain injury has been likened to throwing a pebble in a pond. The ripple effect expands to partners, friends, family, carers, work colleagues and the wider community.

Impact on Families

Relationship Changes After Brain Injury

Everyone wants to be loved, it’s a fundamental human need. We all need people to talk to and laugh with, spend time with, share ideas, worries and joys. But after brain injury our relationships with partners, family and friends can often change quite significantly.

A Parents Guide

Parenting a Child with Brain Injury

The early days after your child’s brain injury. Raising a child brings challenges to all parents, and for parents of a child with a brain injury, those challenges canbe magnified.

Psychological

Brain injury and suicide risks

People with an acquired brain injury may be at risk of suicide at some stage of their recovery process. It is very important for family members and friends to recognise the danger signs, know how to help and who to turn to for advice or referral.

Causes of Brain Injury

Stroke

A stroke is an interruption of blood supply to part of the brain. If arteries become blocked, bleed or break, then the brain tissue is damaged, causing brain injury.

A Parents Guide

The early days after your child’s brain injury

Raising a child brings challenges to all parents, and for parents of a child with a brain injury, those challenges can be magnified.

Emotional

Hope after brain injury

No one can truly understand the devastating impact a brain injury can have without experiencing it personally.

Ageing with a Brain Injury

Active Ageing with a Brain Injury

Actively engaging in physical activity and social engagement tests resilience. When someone is ageing with a brain injury, a positive ageing experience can be experienced.

Social

Steps to independence

Resuming an independent lifestyle safely after a brain injury is an important goal. This goal should be approached in stages based on individual needs and abilities.

Health and Wellbeing

Pain Management and brain injury

Pain can be one of the many effects of a brain injury and it needs appropriate management.

Recovery and Rehab

Speech deficits and speech pathologists

Speech language pathology encompasses the diagnosis, assessment and treatment of communication and swallowing disorders.

Social

Social and recreational activities

Having a social life and pursuing interests make life worthwhile and are important to consider following brain injury.

Recovery and Rehab

Steps to a healthier brain

The brain needs exercise to stay in optimum health, just like our body. Practising skills will lead to better performance and ongoing mental stimulation will help protect against mental decline.

Physical

Sensory and perceptual problems

Sensory and perceptual problems arise from damage to the right side of the brain or the parietal and occipital lobes of the brain.

Causes of Brain Injury

Brain tumours and brain cancer

Brain tumours can affect brain function in a number of ways and to varying degrees, depending on where they grow and how severe they are.

Recovery and Rehab

Leaving hospital

The return home from hospital after a brain injury is usually eagerly awaited by family members.

Reintegration

Returning to work

Many people with a brain injury see returning to work or study as an important milestone.

Ageing with a Brain Injury

Preparing for retirement

Retirement programs enable people with disability to successfully retire, and support mainstream community services to better accommodate people with disability.

Brain Injury Basics

Understanding the Brain

The brain controls and coordinates everything we do - our movements, feelings, thoughts, and bodily functions.

Cognitive

Attention and concentration problems

A brain injury can affect attention or concentration abilities, leading to problems with work, study and everyday living.

Physical

Communication Disorders After a Brain Injury

A brain injury can affect a person’s ability to communicate by impairing their hearing, speech and cognitive processing.

Indigenous Australians

Drug and Alcohol Abuse

Drinking a lot of grog all the time can cause lots of different health issues like diabetes and kidney failure. You can have these health issues for a short time, or they can be for life and turn into serious injuries.

Impact on Families

Managing stress and the caring role

Caring for a family member with a brain injury is one of the most difficult challenges that can confront a family especially for those providing direct care.

Diagnosis

Tests and scans

The long-term effects of a brain injury may not be evident for some time. This makes predictions of recovery difficult in the months following a brain injury.

Psychological

Stress, Anxiety and Brain Injury

While stress is part of everyday life and a natural reaction when major change occurs, its impact can be much greater following brain injury.

Health and Wellbeing

Alcohol, Caffeine and other Drugs

Most rehabilitation specialists will advise against drinking alcohol for at least one to two years after brain injury, or even indefinitely.

Causes of Brain Injury

Anoxic and Hypoxic Brain Injury (lack of oxygen)

Brain injury can occur when there is a reduction in (hypoxic) or complete lack of (anoxic) oxygen supply to the brain.

Brain Injury Basics

What is Brain Injury?

Brain injury includes a number of conditions and disorders that result in impairment to the brain and its functions.

Legal and Advocacy

Advocacy

Advocacy relates to access and the fundamental human rights, needs and interests of all. Advocacy may involve speaking up for someone with a disability, or self-advocacy where a person speaks for themselves.

At Hospital

Coping with stress in hospital

The time in the hospital can be an overwhelming experience, but there are things that you can do to minimise stress.

Treatment

About the medical professionals

Treatment options vary depending on individual patients and injuries. Being familiar with treatments, terminology, and medical staff titles can help you understand what’s going on.

Causes of Brain Injury

Traumatic Brain Injury

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is caused by either a blow to the head or by the head being forced to move rapidly forwards or backwards.

Cognitive

Motivation and initiation (Adynamia)

Some brain injuries can result in a loss of motivation and difficulty in getting started with activities.

Psychological

Panic Attacks

Panic attacks occur when the body reacts as if it is in grave danger in a situation where there is no imminent threat.

Diagnosis

Why predictions are difficult

Predictions of recovery are difficult in the months following a brain injury, with the person and their family often frustrated by lack of knowledge about the future.

Emotional

Post-rehab slump

Survivors of a brain injury often make excellent recoveries through, hard work and professional and family support.

At Hospital

Coma and brain injury

Coma is generally the result of damage or interference with particular structures of the brain, and its length and depth provide a strong indication of the severity of brain injury.

Recovery and Rehab

Accommodation options after a brain injury

The effects of a brain injury can be diverse, so a wide range of accommodation options are needed.

Physical

Epilepsy and Other Seizures

Epilepsy is recurring brief episodes of abnormal electrical activity in the brain leading to uncontrolled convulsions and unconsciousness, or a momentary loss of awareness.

Causes of Brain Injury

Dementia and brain injury

Dementia is a category of brain diseases that result in memory loss and deterioration of speech, motor skills and cognitive functioning as it progresses.

Psychological

Brain injury and Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

While the general effects of brain injury can often include a level emotional distress, affecting your ongoing health and well-being, it’s not uncommon for people with a brain injury to experience more specific symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Causes of Brain Injury

Alcohol & Drug Related Brain Injury

Alcohol is a poison, or neurotoxin, that can cause injury to the brain. This is known as Alcohol Related Brain Injury (ARBI). Other drugs - which fall into the category of stimulants, depressants or hallucinogens - can also lead to impairments.

Health and Wellbeing

Medication

A brain injury may result in an ongoing need for medications prescribed to you by your doctor.

Cognitive

Decision-making and Brain Injury

Decision-making ranges from minor decisions, such as what to have for dinner, to major life-changing ones, such as changing careers.

Reintegration

Brain injury information for employers

Post-brain injury many employees are eager to return to work. Employers may find some simple adjustments can be made to allow this to happen.

Emotional

Avoiding boredom

It is often the case that a person finishes rehabilitation and is not yet ready to return to work or study.

Behavioural

Self-centredness

The ability to view the world from someone else’s point of view is a complex cognitive skill that occurs in the frontal lobes of the brain.

Physical

Headaches

Headaches are a common and often persistent problem after acquiring a brain injury.  Headaches can arise after damage to different structures both inside and outside the head.

Cognitive

Memory Problems and Tips

Short-term memory loss is very common after a brain injury – thankfully there are plenty of coping strategies available. Typical situations include forgetting people's names, losing a train of thought, getting lost at the shops, repeating or forgetting past conversations, misplacing objects and difficulty learning new skills. 

Psychological

Clinical Depression

Clinical depression is a serious disorder that impacts on a person physically, emotionally and even cognitively - slowing thought processes and reducing the ability to concentrate.

Ageing with a Brain Injury

Supporting ageing carers

For many, caring for a family member has become a life-long responsibility. But as carers age, physical, social and emotional factors, declining health and strength can take an increasing toll.

Impact on Families

Mental Health – Depression and Carers

Caring for someone can be a 24 hour job that is emotionally, physically and financially taxing.

Recovery and Rehab

Neuropsychological Assessment

A neuropsychological assessment will usually be provided in the early stages of recovery. The main aim of the assessment is to maximise the survivor’s rehabilitation and participation in family, work and the community.

Recovery and Rehab

Neuropsych Assessment

Recovery and Rehab

Pets as Therapy

While dogs have long been portrayed as ‘man’s best friend’ - a loyal companion – it’s not only canines that can prove a source of support and reassurance following brain injury.

Physical

Balance problems and dizziness

Dizziness and balance problems are common after a brain injury. This can result in problems with movement even when there is no loss of function in the limbs themselves.

Behavioural

Domestic violence

Challenging behaviours after a brain injury can sometimes lead to domestic violence within a family.

Managing Behaviour

What are complex and challenging behaviours?

These can be behaviours where the reasons behind the behaviour are difficult to understand or that people find hard to accept.

Recovery and Rehab

Support, Friendship, Reducing Chances of Another Injury

It is beneficial to stay in touch with friends during the rehabilitation and recovery stage. Additionally, support groups can play a vital role for the person with a brain injury, their carers and family.

Behavioural

Impulsive behaviour

Injury to the frontal lobes after a traumatic brain injury (TBI) can affect the area of the brain that normally controls our impulses.

Behavioural

Impaired Awareness

Lack of self-awareness is a common outcome for people who sustain brain injuries with frontal lobe damage. Their inability to self-monitor and self-correct behaviour can lead to challenging behaviours.

Recovery and Rehab

Complementary Therapies

People often turn to complementary therapies and alternative medicines to assist with some of the issues created by a brain injury.

Impact on Families

Coping with grief and ambiguous loss

Grieving who the person used to be can be confusing, as the injured person can be physically present but psychologically absent.

Causes of Brain Injury

Age-related Brain Injury

Ageing is a risk factor for acquiring a brain injury, particularly over the age of 65. As we get older, our chance of developing dementia rises. So too does the likelihood of falls that result in brain injury. We might not be able to stop either from happening, but there are ways to reduce the risk and manage symptoms.

At Hospital

Emotional Recovery

A brain injury in the family can disrupt almost every aspect of life, creating emotional turmoil that impacts on everything and everyone in some way or another.

Diagnosis

Determining brain injury severity

Several indicators are used to make predictions in determining brain injury severity.

Physical

Sleep Issues

Lack of sleep has a negative effect on our ability to think, mood, energy levels and appetite. The average person needs around eight hours sleep a night or will suffer from decreased concentration, energy and many other problems.

Psychological

Developing Mental Illness after a Brain Injury

Brain injury is a known risk factor for developing a mental illness, while some people with brain injury will have a pre-existing mental illness. Either way, dealing with both can cause additional stress for the person and their family after a brain injury.

Physical

Hearing Impairment After a Brain Injury

A brain injury can result in a variety of hearing difficulties due to damage caused to both mechanical and neurological processes.

Physical

Managing fatigue

Fatigue is a common and highly disabling symptom experienced by people with a brain injury.

Managing Behaviour

Giving feedback on behaviour

Relearning sociable behaviour is easier when family, friends and co-workers agree on set limits and give the same feedback on what is acceptable or unacceptable behaviour.

Legal and Advocacy

Compensation Claim

When another party has caused an injury through negligence there may be grounds for making a claim for compensation.

Brain Injury Basics

Understanding the Nervous System

The nervous system is a complex system including the brain, spinal cord and nerves. It interprets and responds to information received through the senses.

Indigenous Australians

Physical Assault

A physical assault or fighting can happen for lots of reasons. But one of the main causes is people drinking grog. People can get seriously hurt and also cause serious injuries to someone else.

Behavioural

Anger

Anger is a very common emotional response after a brain injury and can be directly related to impairments caused by the injury and difficulties with self-regulation.

Causes of Brain Injury

Assault

Physical assault is a major cause of traumatic brain injury (TBI), with young men between the ages of 20 and 24 being the most vulnerable.

Indigenous Australians

Mental Health & Suicide

Mental health describes the health of your emotions and how you cope. Unlike your physical health, your mind is more fragile and can start to change from things such as frightening experiences.

Legal and Advocacy

Guardianship / Decision Making

Everyone has a legal right to make decisions and control their own life. If a person loses the ability to make decisions in life, legal guardians and administrators can make decisions for them.

Health and Wellbeing

Future Medical Problems

Most people with a brain injury are expected to experience a normal life span but families and carers can play a crucial role by monitoring for any further medical problems arising post-injury, particularly after hospital.

Managing Behaviour

The ABC Approach to Behaviour Support

The ABC model is an effective way to understand challenging behaviour and develop suitable responses within a positive behaviour support plan.

At Hospital

Support and Advocacy

There are many places to find support in the hospital. We take a look at some of them.

Causes of Brain Injury

Concussion / Mild TBI

Concussion is the most common form of traumatic brain injury (TBI), affecting around 42 million people worldwide each year. It is the result of a physical blow or sudden jolt that forces the brain to move within the skull.

Cognitive

Perseveration (Repetition)

Perseveration is repetitive and continuous behavior, speech or thought that occurs due to changes in cognitive skills such as memory, attention, and mental flexibility.

Causes of Brain Injury

Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy

Repeated, mild ABIs, such as concussions experienced by professional sports people like boxers and footballers, can be related to a neurodegenerative condition known as Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE).

Managing Behaviour

Responding to Acute Behaviour Disturbance (Crisis)

Brain injury can sometimes result in behaviour that is dangerous to the person with the injury and those around them.

Treatment

Surgery

Approximately half of all severe brain injuries will need surgery to remove or repair hematomas or contusions. These are often emergency procedures.

Causes of Brain Injury

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) refers to a range of impairments that can develop in an individual due to exposure to alcohol in the womb.

Managing Behaviour

The message behind brain injury behaviour

There are many reasons why a person with brain injury might develop challenging behaviour.

Recovery and Rehab

Neurological physiotherapy

Neurological physiotherapy treats movement disorders caused by injury to the nervous or neuromuscular systems.

Services

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Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Disability Network of Queensland

A big vision by a small group in 2005 as part of the International Day of people with a disability,… Continue reading "Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Disability Network of Queensland"

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In Hand Therapy Midland

HAND & UPPER LIMB ASSESSMENT Comprehensive assessments are used to guide the hand rehabilitation program and / or provide recommendations… Continue reading "In Hand Therapy Midland"

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Inspire Rehab and Psychology: Samantha Grant and Alethea Tomkins

Clinical Psychologists. Community based clinical psychology services- through LTCS, Medicare, CTP and private referrals. Professional referral not required unless going… Continue reading "Inspire Rehab and Psychology: Samantha Grant and Alethea Tomkins"

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South Perth Physiotherapy

South Perth Physiotherapy has a history of exceptional physiotherapists, all whom take on a very “hands on” approach. Manual procedures… Continue reading "South Perth Physiotherapy"

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Queensland Paediatric Rehabilitation Service

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WA Assoc. for Mental Health WAAMH

The Western Australian Association for Mental Health (WAAMH) is the peak body for community mental health in Western Australia. Our… Continue reading "WA Assoc. for Mental Health WAAMH"

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TASC National Ltd

TASC is a not for profit organisation that delivers legal, advocacy, psychology and counselling services across Toowoomba, Ipswich, Roma and… Continue reading "TASC National Ltd"

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Mt Pleasant Counselling Service South Perth

The Mount Pleasant Counselling Centre provides a range of Psychological, psychotherapeutic and counselling services for individuals, couples, families and Organisations,… Continue reading "Mt Pleasant Counselling Service South Perth"

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Mt Pleasant Counselling Service Mt Pleasant

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Austin Health – Royal Talbot Rehabilitation Centre, neurological rehabilitation service

This service is available for people who have been diagnosed with conditions including: Stroke, Brain or Spinal tumours, Multiple Sclerosis,… Continue reading "Austin Health – Royal Talbot Rehabilitation Centre, neurological rehabilitation service"

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Queensland Aboriginal and Islander Health Council

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Dr Darryl Bassett

Dr Darryl Bassett, MB, BS, BSc, FRANZCP, Dip. Psychotherapy, Psychiatrist in full time private practice. Dr Bassettâ€™s particularly interests at… Continue reading "Dr Darryl Bassett"

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Mandurah Physiotherapy

Suffering? We are passionate about patient care and our 30 years of service proves it. We are a state of… Continue reading "Mandurah Physiotherapy"

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In Hand Therapy Claremont

HAND & UPPER LIMB ASSESSMENT Comprehensive assessments are used to guide the hand rehabilitation program and / or provide recommendations… Continue reading "In Hand Therapy Claremont"

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Aged and Disability Advocacy Australia Ltd

Aged and Disability Advocacy Australia (ADA Australia) is a not-for-profit, independent, community based advocacy and education service with more than… Continue reading "Aged and Disability Advocacy Australia Ltd"

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Health and Human Services

The department offers programs to help create safe and caring homes and communities for all families and children.

Service

Aboriginal Child, Family and Community Care Secretariat (AbSec)

The organisation is recognised as the peak NSW Aboriginal organisation to providing child protection and out-of-home care policy advice and… Continue reading "Aboriginal Child, Family and Community Care Secretariat (AbSec)"

Service

Victorian Aids and Equipment Program

Provides subsidised aids and equipment, home and vehicle modifications

Service

Fiona stanley Hospital: State Rehabilitation Service

The 140-bed State Rehabilitation Service provides statewide tertiary or specialist level inpatient and outpatient clinical rehabilitation services to people suffering… Continue reading "Fiona stanley Hospital: State Rehabilitation Service"

Service

Caulfield Hospital: Acquired Brain Injury Community Rehabilitation

Acquired Brain Injury Community Rehabilitation supports people with a severe brain injury following discharge from hospital and who require further… Continue reading "Caulfield Hospital: Acquired Brain Injury Community Rehabilitation"

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Caulfield Hospital Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Rehabilitation service

Provides rehabilitation to meet the needs of people with severe brain injuries resulting from trauma, stroke and other medical causes… Continue reading "Caulfield Hospital Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Rehabilitation service"

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Rehabilitation at Home

Service

Dr Helen Costello Palmyra Clinical Psychology

In 1995 Helen completed the APPWA Diploma in Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy. She has significant training in psychoanalytic approaches to group and… Continue reading "Dr Helen Costello Palmyra Clinical Psychology"

Service

Abi: Assessments and Behaviour Interventions

is a leading not-for-profit organisation that provides family focused intervention programs that are effective and affordable for young children with… Continue reading "Abi: Assessments and Behaviour Interventions"

Service

Carers and Parents Support Group

Provides information, support, referral and advocacy services to carers, parents and families of adults with an intellectual disability and/or dual… Continue reading "Carers and Parents Support Group"

Service

Uniting -Crisis and Homelessness

Provides crisis accommodation and information for people in the eastern region of Melbourne who are experiencing or are at risk… Continue reading "Uniting -Crisis and Homelessness"

Service

NADA – Network of Alcohol and Other Drugs Agencies

Peak organisation for the non-government alcohol and other drug sector in NSW. Aim is to reduce alcohol and drug related… Continue reading "NADA – Network of Alcohol and Other Drugs Agencies"

Service

The Rehabilitation Collective OT

The Rehabilitation Collective has been established to provide high quality, person centred, goal directed and evidence based therapy services for… Continue reading "The Rehabilitation Collective OT"

Service

Pulse Health Eden Rehabilitation Hospital

Service

St John of God Chemical Dependency Unit

Private Hospital. This program is designed for clients who have alcohol and other drug abuse/dependence issues and is aimed at… Continue reading "St John of God Chemical Dependency Unit"

Service

New England Brain Injury Service Program

Service

Acquired Brain Injury Outreach Service (ABIOS)

ABIOS is a specialist community-based rehabilitation service to enhance the service system for people with Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) and… Continue reading "Acquired Brain Injury Outreach Service (ABIOS)"

Service

Osborne Adult Community Mental Osborne Park Adult Community Mental Health Service

Osborne Park Hospital campus is home to Osborne Community Mental Health Service (Osborne Clinic) and Osborne Park Older Adult Mental… Continue reading "Osborne Adult Community Mental Osborne Park Adult Community Mental Health Service"

Service

Sir Roden and Lady Cutler

Driving the seriously ill, elderly, needy and disabled to and from medical appointments.

Service

Queensland Advocacy Incorporated

Queensland Advocacy Incorporated (Q A I) is an independent, community-based, individual, systemic and legal advocacy organisation for people with disability… Continue reading "Queensland Advocacy Incorporated"

Service

Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling

Support for current and ex-serving ADF personnel and their families Call us to access free and confidential counselling, group treatment… Continue reading "Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling"

Service

Precision Physiotherapy and Remedial Massage

Our combined qualifications and knowledge include; Ph.D.(low back pain), Master of Manual Therapy, Master of Medical Science (shoulder thesis), B.Sc.… Continue reading "Precision Physiotherapy and Remedial Massage"

Service

Hand and Upper Limb Centre

HULC creates tailor-made therapy programs for each patient to assist with rehabilitating diagnosed conditions and/or post surgical treatment. Our therapists… Continue reading "Hand and Upper Limb Centre"

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Hand and Upper Limb Centre

Service

South Eastern Sydney and Illawarra Area Health Service

24 hour service staffed by qualified mental health clinicians who can help individuals, their carers and the wider community link… Continue reading "South Eastern Sydney and Illawarra Area Health Service"

Service

Vision Counselling Midland Office

We provide professional psychology and counselling services in individual counselling marriage counselling relationship counselling family counselling psychologists perth Employee Assistance… Continue reading "Vision Counselling Midland Office"

Service

Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling

Service

Perth Childrens Hospital Neuroscience and Neurology

PCH’s Children’s Neuroscience Service encompasses neurology, neurosurgery and neurophysiology services. The Children’s Neuroscience Service provides a specialist service for the… Continue reading "Perth Childrens Hospital Neuroscience and Neurology"

Service

Anxiety Recovery Centre (ARC)

Provide support, recovery and educational services to people and families living with anxiety disorders.

Service

Alliance Rehabilitation Pty Ltd

Service

Gizmo Rehabilitation

Service

Westmead Brain Injury Rehabilitation Unit

Service

Active Rehabilitation Physiotherapy

Service

Edge Rehabilitation

Service

Brisbane Private Hospital, Rehabilitation

Service

Acquired Brain Injury Transitional Rehabilitation Service

Service

Austin Health – Royal Talbot Rehabilitation Centre

The acquired brain injury unit is a statewide inpatient rehabilitation service for people with an acquired brain injury.

Service

Northern Brain Injury Rehabilitation Service

Ballina District Hospital, 58 Fox Street, BALLINA NSW 2478 Phone: 02 6620 6361 | Fax: 02 6620 6348

Service

MyTurn Rehabilitation

Service

ICARE Rehab Queensland

Service

Home health and Medical Supplies

Provides medical, continence and first aid supplies.

Service

Rowland Benjamin – Osteopath

Rowland Benjamin D.O. is a manual therapist and registered Osteopath with over 30 years experience. He treats muscle and joint… Continue reading "Rowland Benjamin – Osteopath"

Service

Gippsland Carers Association

Monthly carer support groups open to all unpaid family carers in Gippsland.

Service

Lions Optics Midland

The Lions Eye Institute (LEI) is a not-for-profit centre of excellence that combines world class scientific research into the prevention… Continue reading "Lions Optics Midland"

Service

helping minds

HelpingMinds offers free support to the family and friends of people living with mental health challenges across WA. We started… Continue reading "helping minds"

Service

Breathe Counselling Perth

Breathe Counselling offers professional, confidential and compassionate counselling services. Our team of qualified counsellors offer individuals, couples and families solutions… Continue reading "Breathe Counselling Perth"

Service

National Disability Abuse and Neglect Hotline

Telephone service for reporting cases of neglect and abuse of disabled members of the community (Australia wide)

Service

Shyness and social anxiety treatment Australia

Trained clinical psychologists who have substantial experience in the treatment of shyness and social phobia.

Service

Breathe Counselling Perth

Service

Breathe Counselling Perth

Service

Southern Eastern Sydney and Illawarra Area – D&A Info Service

Telephone support

Service

Absolute Care and Health

Provides shopping, personal care, meal preparation, domestic tasks and transport assistance

Service

University of New England Psychology Clinic

Clinical Masters Students on placement – with an endorsed supervisor with full registration (Dr. Warren Bartik)

Service

Breathe Counselling Perth

Service

Children and Young People with a Disability Australia (CYDA)

The national peak body which represents children and young people (aged 0-25) with disability. CYDA is a not for profit,… Continue reading "Children and Young People with a Disability Australia (CYDA)"

Service

Down Syndrome Association Of Qld Inc.

Down Syndrome Queensland are committed to upholding the rights of children and adults with Down syndrome and ensuring that their… Continue reading "Down Syndrome Association Of Qld Inc."

Service

Recovery Compass Consulting (OT)

People impacted by multiple conditions that may include a chronic mental health condition, mental illness following accident or injury, brain… Continue reading "Recovery Compass Consulting (OT)"

Service

Hills Neurological Rehabilitation

We are committed to providing expert physiotherapy treatment and advice to people living with neurological disease or injury in Perth’s… Continue reading "Hills Neurological Rehabilitation"

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Royal Rehabilitation Centre

Service

Kaleidescope Brain Injury Rehabilitation Team (Newcastle)

Paediatric

Service

Mid North Coast Brain Injury Rehabilitation Servic

Rural

Service

Brain Injury Rehabilitation Unit BIRU

Service

Independent Rehabilitation Services

Physiotherapists, Occupational Therapists and Speech Pathologists work with adults and adolescents with an acquired brain injury and numerous other neurological… Continue reading "Independent Rehabilitation Services"

Service

Susan Pullman and Associates (Dr)

Team of Clinical Neuropsychologists

Service

Mental Health Victoria

The peak body for mental health service providers in Victoria. Specialises in public policy, workforce development and training and services… Continue reading "Mental Health Victoria"

Service

Banter Speech and Language (SP)

Works with adults with TBI – speech therapy, assessments, reading, writing, spelling, group therapy.

Service

Perth Psychologists

Everyone needs help at times, so asking for help is quite a natural thing to do. At Perth Psychologists, by… Continue reading "Perth Psychologists"

Service

Perth Psychologists

Everyone needs help at times, so asking for help is quite a natural thing to do. At Perth Psychologists, by… Continue reading "Perth Psychologists"

Service

Perth Psychologists

Everyone needs help at times, so asking for help is quite a natural thing to do. At Perth Psychologists, by… Continue reading "Perth Psychologists"

Service

Melbourne Neuropsychiatry

Provides expertise in clinical, research, teaching and consulting work in psychiatry, neuropsychiatry and consultation-liaison psychiatry with patients with psychological and… Continue reading "Melbourne Neuropsychiatry"

Service

Odyssey House

Provides residentail and non-residential rehab programs for men and women 18 yrs and over with a drug, alcohol or gambling… Continue reading "Odyssey House"

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Gippsland Disability Advocacy

Provides advocacy services for people with a disability and their families

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North Queensland Therapy Services

Service

North Queensland Neuropsychology Service

Service

Fairfield Hospital Detox Unit

Mendicated inpatient detox for adults 18yrs and over. Will take dual diagnosis and uses harm minimisation policy. Offers both residential… Continue reading "Fairfield Hospital Detox Unit"

Service

Anglicare North Queensland

Service

Australian Health and Medical Research Council

NGO, member based, Indigenous-run. Twitter @AHMRC

Service

Reconnexion

Provides counselling, telephone, information and support, community information and health practioner education for those living with anxiety, stress, depression and… Continue reading "Reconnexion"

Service

Wesley Mission Queensland

Service

Australian Disability and Indigenous People’s Education Fund

Grants of up to $2,500 to assist people with disabilities to continue their learning. Granted 6 monthly. Based in Vic-… Continue reading "Australian Disability and Indigenous People’s Education Fund"

Service

Alison Self OT services

Alison has worked specifically in the area of cognitive rehabilitation for children, teenagers and adults for the past 25 years.… Continue reading "Alison Self OT services"

Service

Neurotherapy Services

Following your stroke, ABI or new diagnosis, we want you to have the right tools to support you in your… Continue reading "Neurotherapy Services"

Service

Perth Physiotherapy & Pilates

Experienced physiotherapists who are up to date with the latest treatment techniques and evidence based practice. Our Clinical Rehabilitation Instructors… Continue reading "Perth Physiotherapy & Pilates"

Service

Brighton Brain Injury Service (BBIS)

The Brighton Brain Injury Service (formerly Jacana Acquired Brain Injury) provides complex and comprehensive rehabilitation for clients with an acquired… Continue reading "Brighton Brain Injury Service (BBIS)"

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South West Brain Injury Rehab Service

Service

Yellow door therpy Services

We are a mobile service that comes to you. We provide remedial and compensatory techniques to improve safety, independence and… Continue reading "Yellow door therpy Services"

Service

NeuroAlliance (Physiotherapy)

Private practice with 2 locations: Wallsend and Adamstown. Specialise in neurological disabilities. Accept self referrals – including initial contact through… Continue reading "NeuroAlliance (Physiotherapy)"

Service

Royal Rehab Private

Wide range of services – neurological, orthopaedic, reconditioning etc

Service

Neurolab PT

Neurolab PT focuses on neurological rehabilitation, providing back to basics home visiting physiotherapy services.

Service

Health Central

Whether you are recovering from an injury, or you just wish to enhance your body’s performance, we strive for excellence… Continue reading "Health Central"

Service

The Sydney Clinic

Private psychiatric hospital. Medicated detox. 21 day rehab. Recovery Support. Patients must be admitted under a psychiatrist.

Service

State Head Injury Unit

Individuals with an acquired brain injury between the ages of16 and 65 will be considered. This includes stroke, trauma, infection… Continue reading "State Head Injury Unit"

Service

Bryden Neuropsychology

Service

Occupational Therapy: Laura Bodycoat

OT and Case Management Servicee for Sydney Region and Regional NSW- providing services for individuals who have had a severe… Continue reading "Occupational Therapy: Laura Bodycoat"

Service

Austin Health(Department of Neuropsychology)

The Department of Clinical Neuropsychology provides inpatient and outpatient services. It provides patient care, diagnostic assessment services, rehabilitation programs and… Continue reading "Austin Health(Department of Neuropsychology)"

Service

Royal Perth Hospital Neurology Department

Our services include: 24 hour Emergency Department consultation services inpatient general neurology services outpatient general neurology services comprehensive stroke service… Continue reading "Royal Perth Hospital Neurology Department"

Service

Hardwick Psychological Services

Service

Mental Health Association

Specialises in public policy, workforce development and training, and services that build individual, organisational and community capacity.

Service

Rebound Health

Rebound Health is a multidisciplinary allied health team including Occupational Therapy, Exercise Physiology, Physiotherapy and Dietetics. An NDIS accredited provider… Continue reading "Rebound Health"

Service

Newcastle Neuro

Newcastle Neuro speech pathologists have over ten years of experience working with adults with developmental, acquired and degenerative conditions across… Continue reading "Newcastle Neuro"

Service

Mid-North Coast Therapy Group

Clinical Psychology, rehabilitation psychology, case management, occupational therapy

Service

OT Rehab Solutions (OT)

Specialist areas include neurological rehabilitation including stroke and traumatic brain injury, aged care and home modifications.

Service

O.T. WEST

We provide occupational therapy assessment and rehabilitation services to people at every stage of their life, from early childhood to… Continue reading "O.T. WEST"

Service

Walk on Wheels Australia

Provides equipment, daily living and mobility aids as well as special needs rehabilitation equipment.

Service

Coastal Rehab

Service

connect2community

connect2community is an innovative community-based speech pathology private practice with an adult focus. We provide person-centred and evidence-based assessment and… Continue reading "connect2community"

Service

Mindset Neurological Physiotherapy

We provide in-home rehabilitation for anyone experiencing movement or functional difficulties as a result of a neurological condition or injury.

Service

State Head Injury Unit

Case coordination, clinical psychology, physiotherapy, speech pathology, occupational therapy, social work and therapy assistant.

Service

Rehability (Sunshine Coast)

Service

Therapy Solutions

Service

Brisbane Rehab

Service

Northside Clinic

Private Hospital. All drugs. Detox and rehabilitation program. 3 week in-patient program. Men and women on alternate days. Dr referral… Continue reading "Northside Clinic"

Service

Northside West Clinic

Private Hospital. 3 weeks residentail detox/rehabilitation program. For ages 18 years and over. The hospital also has a separate anxiety/depresssion/mood… Continue reading "Northside West Clinic"

Service

Dubbo Brain Injury Rehab Program

Rural

Service

Therapy Solutions

Service

Coastal Rehab

Service

Mid Western Brain Injury Rehab Program

Service

Rehab Management

Service

Smart Solutions Rehab Group

Service

Southern Area Brain Injury Service

Service

Motivate Rehab

Service

Rehability

Service

Rehability ABI services

Service

The Neuro Hub

Service

North Coast Brain

Service

Optimal Communications

Service

ARC Rehab: Advanced Rehab Centre

Clinic and home based rehab. Specialising in rehabilitation for people with neurological and complex therapy needs. Variety of programs available.… Continue reading "ARC Rehab: Advanced Rehab Centre"

News

Understanding Social Isolation as You Recover

The journey of recovery following a brain injury looks different for everyone. Coming to terms with your injury can be challenging and complex as you learn about what’s changed in yourself and life around you.

News

NAIDOC Week 2023

This NAIDOC week we celebrate our Synapse Elders. Our Elders guide and ensure we stay connected to community and culture.

News

Everyday Isolation After a Brain Injury – What Does It Look Like?

Picture this: You’re stuck at home. Your normal routine is gone, and there’s limits on what you can do and you can’t do. You’ve watched more TV recently than you ever have before in your life. Your life usually has structure – work, study, hobbies, going out with friends, and without that, you’re feeling bored and frustrated. When will this end?

News

Drawing from experiences – visual art and brain injury

We know art offers the chance to explore ideas and creative concepts. For people living with brain injury, it also provides an incredible opportunity to process and express their experiences – from the early stages through to the challenges and successes of recovery and day-to-day life.

News

Understanding Behaviour Changes after Brain Injury

Behaviour changes are part of brain injury for most people, but it’s an aspect that often isn’t fully apparent until you return home and life outside of the hospital routines begins.

News

Synapse CEO, Jennifer Cullen, Receives Degree of Doctor of the University

Synapse—Australia’s Brain Injury Organisation CEO, Jennifer Cullen, has been awarded an honorary degree of the Doctor of the University from Griffith University.

News

Stories from our Community

This year most of the world is experiencing what it is to be socially isolated, which is something that people with brain injury often experience. We asked the members of our Reconnections support groups to share with us their experiences with social isolation and what they did about it.

News

Maintaining Relationships

Everyone wants to be loved, it's a fundamental human need. We all need people to talk to and laugh with, spend time with, share ideas, worries and joys. But after brain injury our relationships with partners, family and friends can often change quite significantly.

News

Meet Nadine Holliday – Creating opportunities to connect through Synapse Peer

We recognise how important it is for people impacted by brain injury to connect with others who understand. Our Peer program is making this a reality for people across a range of activities, in-person and online

News

Understanding brain injury from a distance

Brain injury has a profound and underestimated impact on society. It’s important that everyone plays their part and does what they can to understand brain injury and support people in meaningful and impactful ways.

News

Danny Li – Returning to work after a brain injury

Danny speaks about his journey back to work after a brain injury and offers his tips on navigating the recruitment process.

News

Making Connections over a Cuppa

We know that for many living with brain injury, it can be difficult to find and connect with others who have similar experiences. Our online peer group chats have become an important and meaningful way for our communities to connect over a cuppa.

News

Launch of New Online Brain Injury Hub to Guide People Through Recovery

Synapse - Australia’s Brain Injury Organisation, has launched a new website which includes a comprehensive brain injury information hub.

News

How to navigate changing relationships

Relationships are so important as they make us feel supported, connected and loved. In this article we’ll talk about how a brain injury may impact the different relationships in someone’s life.

News

Understanding the cycle of vulnerability

Brain injury can impact someone at any stage of life and no two brain injuries are ever the same. Without the right support, knowledge and opportunities at the key milestones in life, people living with a brain injury can fall into the cycle of vulnerability.

News

Synapse awarded a $1.8 million NDIS grant to extend information services nationally.

In late 2019 Synapse was awarded a three-year, $1.8 million Information, Linkages and Capacity Building (ILC) grant from the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) to deliver a National Information Program focused on expanding brain injury information services over the next three years.

News

Aged Care Royal Commission Final Report Recommendations Welcomed By Disability Advocacy Organisation

The key recommendations relating to younger people with disability, outlined in the newly released final report of the Aged Care Royal Commission, have been warmly welcomed by the Summer Foundation, Youngcare and Synapse.

News

MEDIA RELEASE: Brain Injury Awareness Week 16-22 August 2021

Next week is Brain Injury Awareness Week and this year’s theme is Every Brain Injury is Different. This pivotal advocacy week focuses on creating awareness in the community about the 700,000-plus Australians impacted by brain injury and their daily struggle to live in a world where their “disability” is often invisible.

Man in hospital bed holding hands with young girl

News

Grappling with the ‘New Normal’

Adjusting to a different life and finding your new normal after brain injury can be a difficult time. People in our Reconnections group often share that it feels like no one around them understands what they are going through.

News

Synapse Information & Referral – Helping you navigate brain injury

When brain injury impacts your life or the life of someone you care for, there can be a lot of complex circumstances and systems to navigate. Between adjusting to life with a brain injury and finding suitable support, knowing where to start or who to turn to can be difficult.

News

Network event attracts brain injury specialists

Brain injury professionals gathered recently for Synapse Western Australia’s inaugural network meeting to share knowledge and collaborate on improving the experiences of people impacted by brain injury.

News

Assessing the Disability Needs of Indigenous Prisoners

Synapse is sub-contracted to Griffith University to run the Assessing the Disability Needs of Indigenous Prisoners (ADNIP) project, which is funded by the Department of Social Services. This is a national project examining the methods and processes for the identification of disability and provision of support for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander prisoners and formerly incarcerated people.

News

NIISQ CEO Neil Singleton on Motor vehicle accidents and brain injury

While we all know that road safety is important, those who survive serious motor vehicle accidents and go on to live with significant conditions like brain injury are an often-forgotten figure.

News

‘Just a draft’ still means it was – or is – in the mix

The leaking of draft changes to the NDIS strikes a blow not just to those potentially affected, but at the very heart of what could, and should, be a life and society-changing scheme.

News

Expanding our Services Nationally

2020 is shaping up to be a big year for Synapse as we roll out the three-year $1.8 million Information, Linkages and Capacity Building (ILC) NDIS grant to extend our brain injury information and referral service nationally.

News

Brain Drain Co. Market Day shows local support for Synapse

Brain Drain Co. hosted their inaugural Market Day in support of Synapse on December 21st at Crowbar in Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley. The afternoon event saw local creators and musicians come together to raise awareness of the work Synapse does to support families impacted by brain injury.

News

Returning to work after a brain injury

With the right support and resources, you can successfully transition back into the workforce after a brain injury.

News

MEDIA RELEASE: NDIA plans ‘doubling down’ on exclusion for marginalised Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities

Plans to introduce independent assessments to access the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) will amount to a ‘doubling down’ on exclusion for some of Australia’s most marginalised peoples.

News

How screening for brain injury can change corrections outcomes

The issue of brain injury while incarcerated is complex and disproportionately affects Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander prisoners. Brain injury currently receives relatively little recognition in the criminal justice system.

Three people standing in front of presentation screen

News

Brain Injury Network event

Our recent Synapse Brain Injury Network event featured speakers discussing their professional experience with working within the NDIS system, and getting the best outcome for their clients.

News

Parenting and brain injury with Jayden

Our BrainBank Panelist Jayden is a proud dad of two beautiful girls. He sat down with our team to talk about how he worked to be an active and engaged parent and dad while living with a brain injury.

News

Brain Injury Awareness Week highlights invisible disabilities

Brain Injury Awareness Week runs from 19-25 August and heralds an opportunity to raise awareness for the 700,000 Australians who live with a brain injury.

News

Stroke Foundation helping first nations communities thrive after stroke

The Stroke Foundation has launched a new resource specially designed to help Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people live well after stroke.

News

Supporting your mental health as a carer

The changes people can experience when living with a brain injury can sometimes make caring for them overwhelming.

News

Synapse strongly rejects compulsory NDIS Independent Assessments

The Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), the Hon Stuart Robert, recently announced the introduction of compulsory Independent Assessments for people with disability to be able to access the NDIS, and as part of the plan review process. Synapse opposes this, and here’s why.

News

Opinion: Ignorant change by the Queensland Government sees justice system again fail kids

The Queensland Government’s response to be tough on crime comes with a harsher cost to the lives of many children across the state, particularly those who have Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), brain injuries, or other cognitive impairment.

News

Media Release: Synapse testify Guddi Way Screen success to the Disability Royal Commission

Brain injury is often called the ‘hidden’ disability due to its lack of physical evidence of injury, making it difficult to screen for and assess in Australian prisoners. Yet, having a brain injury in the criminal justice system makes an instrumental difference on the way prisoners are assessed and treated in and out of a prison.

News

The benefits of brain injury training

Synapse helps health professionals stay up to date with the latest research and developments through brain injury training.

News

Expanding Our Family Liaison Service

Synapse Family Liaison Officers provide practical support and information to family members and carers of people who have brain injury.   

News

Working While Caring

While returning to work may not be possible or desired for all carers, we wanted to hear the experiences of those in our community who have returned to work and the things they had to consider along the way to balance their time and responsibilities.

News

Reducing the number of Younger Australians in Residential Aged Care

The Australian Government’s decision to establish a task force to end the practice of placing young people with disability in aged care is an important step.

News

Synapse highlights high rate of brain injury caused by domestic violence

During May, Synapse - Australia's Brain Injury Organisation, is raising awareness about the high rate of brain injury sustained by victims of domestic violence.

Paint handprint with word Hope underneath

News

Synapses believes Black Lives Matter

We are committed to the work we do together with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

News

The NDIS journey – What to expect

This article explores what you can expect at different stages of accessing and using you NDIS plan as someone living with a brain injury.

News

Staying socially connected after brain injury

Before Jayden’s accident he spent most of his free time either motorbike riding, playing footy or playing the drums in a cover band with his mates. After his accident, he found that these were not an option for him anymore.

News

How could the 2022/23 Budget affect the brain injury community?

Synapse has broken down the key elements in this year’s budget that are relevant to those living with brain injury and their carers below to help our community understand how this budget affects them.

News

Chair Yoga and Meditation

We hosted a free online Chair Yoga class with our guests Julie Clark and Claire Cunneen (All Ability Yoga). Yoga is for every BODY. Join in for this 30 minute yoga and 15 minute meditation for all abilities.

Brain bank panellist having a conversation

News

Synapse’ BrainBank Panel brings personalised connection for people navigating life with brain injury

The soon to be launched BrainBank panel is a peer panel, operated by and for people who have lived experience of brain injury.

News

Christmas with a Brain Injury

Christmas can be overwhelming at the best of times, but living with ABI can make the chaos of shopping, noise and lights unbearable. If you or someone you care for has an ABI, there are a few ways you can help prevent Christmas cheer descending into seasonal struggle.

Events

5 May

Synapse Reconnections WA – May

Regular in person and online meet-ups for those in WA wanting to connect with others living with a brain injury.

News

Community Living Initiative Mentor

Jamen started working at the Community Living Initiative in Cairns two-months before it opened to tenants in 2017. His role is to mentor the team working at the Community Living Initiative and act as a conduit between the team and tenants.

News

Synapse and Healthdirect Partner to Deliver Brain Injury Information Nationally

We recently partnered with the government-funded initiative Healthdirect Australia to provide quality brain injury information and advice to people across Australia.

News

Developing Culturally Informed Employment Resources in Western Australia

Aboriginal people can sometimes experience challenges when connecting with and engaging services. These challenges often occur when services are developed without connection to local culture and community.

News

Communication, brain injury and the experiences of Indigenous Australians

In this special interview Professor Beth Armstrong and Kerri Colegate discuss their work around communication difficulties after brain injury and stroke, with a particular focus on the experiences of Indigenous Australians.

News

Synapse to develop an online brain injury information hub

After recently being awarded an Information, Linkages and Capacity Building (ILC) grant from the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), Synapse is working with the brain injury and disability community across Australia to deliver a unique, comprehensive brain injury Information Hub.

News

Misconceptions disconnecting older Aussies from support

Misconceptions about the causes and impact of brain injury can be damaging and stop older Australians from seeking the support they need. Ageing Australians do not need to struggle in silence.

News

Returning to the Fray

Reintegrating into society after chronic illness is a challenge that Sarah faced after years of living with a brain injury and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME).

Events

7 Jul

Synapse Reconnections WA – July

Regular in person and online meet-ups for those in WA wanting to connect with others living with a brain injury.

14 Jul

Synapse Reconnections for Family, Friends, Carers WA – July

Join us and connect with other family, friends and support networks of people living with a brain injury across Western Australia.

News

Cook-along-at-home with Vikki Moursellas

For Brain Injury Awareness Week Vikki Moursellas guided our Reconnections community through cooking a delightful meal of lamb kefethes with pita bread and tzatziki.

News

Get the Most from Changes to NDIS Support Coordination

The NDIA has decided to indefinitely extend the use of core funding to access Support Coordination, making it easier to get the most from your NDIS plan.

Events

13 Oct

Synapse Perth Reconnections – October

Come, join us and connect with others living with a brain injury. Carers, families, and partners are also welcome.

15 Sep

Synapse Perth Reconnections – September

Come, join us and connect with others living with a brain injury. Carers, families, and partners are also welcome.

News

August and September Reconnections

Learn from, connect with, and share your experience with others impacted by brain injury. Synapse has different Reconnection Groups for all ages. See our upcoming Reconnections groups and join a group near you.

Events

31 Mar

Synapse Reconnections WA – March

Regular in person and online meet-ups for those in WA wanting to connect with others living with a brain injury.

22 Mar

Synapse Reconnections Partners WA – March

Join us for a cup of tea or coffee and a chat to connect with other husbands, wives, and partners of people living with a brain injury across WA.

26 Apr

Synapse Reconnections Partners WA – April

Join us for a cup of tea or coffee and a chat to connect with other husbands, wives, and partners of people living with a brain injury across WA.

3 Feb

Synapse Reconnections WA – February

Regular in person and online meet-ups for those in WA wanting to connect with others living with a brain injury.

News

BIAW 2023 wrap-up

We’re so happy to have championed another Brain Injury Awareness Week to raise awareness of brain injury and its impact across Australia. Thank you to each person and company who came along side Synapse to share and highlight the week.

News

Synapse launch in Western Australia ensures local brain injury services

In late 2018, the Board of Headwest voted on a resolution to dissolve the organisation and transfer all assets to Synapse - Australia's Brain Injury Organisation.

News

New initiatives to stop younger people going into aged care by 2022

Organisations supporting young people living in nursing homes have welcomed the Morrison Government’s commitment to work to the targets endorsed by the Aged Care Royal Commission.

Events

10 Nov

Synapse Perth Reconnections – November

Come, join us and connect with others living with a brain injury. Carers, families, and partners are also welcome.

24 May

Synapse Reconnections Partners WA – May

Join us for a cup of tea or coffee and a chat to connect with other husbands, wives, and partners of people living with a brain injury across WA.

News

The Afternoon Shift – Tim Cudmore

If you missed Tim Cudmore’s Afternoon Shift talk on Brain Injury’s invisible disabilities on November 3rd, the recording is now available.

News

Brain Injury Network NSW event connects services across the state

This week we held our Brain Injury Network event in New South Wales, connecting providers and specialists in our combined pursuit to support people impacted by brain injury.

News

Emotional Regulation

Improving emotional regulation after an ABI can be very challenging. UWA School of Psychology recently presented some tips on retraining the way we think.

Events

11 Aug

Synapse Reconnections for Family, Friends, Carers WA – August

Join us and connect with other family, friends and support networks of people living with a brain injury across Western Australia.

News

Synapse CEO Jennifer Cullen on the DSC ‘Disability Done Different’ Podcast

This month Jennifer sat down with the DSC team to yarn about being a proud Aboriginal woman and CEO of Synapse and how language, communication and co-design are vital to ensuring the inclusion of everyone in the disability sector.

Events

9 Jun

Synapse Reconnections for Family, Friends, Carers WA – June

Join us and connect with other family, friends and support networks of people living with a brain injury across Western Australia.

14 Apr

Synapse Reconnections for Family, Friends, Carers WA – April

Join us and connect with other family, friends and support networks of people living with a brain injury across Western Australia.

10 Mar

Synapse Reconnections for Family, Friends, Carers WA – March

Join us and connect with other family, friends and support networks of people living with a brain injury across Western Australia.

News

Synapse wins HESTA Excellence Award for Outstanding Organisation in Disability Services

Synapse wins 2020 HESTA Excellence Award for Outstanding Organisation in Disability Services

News

Synapse seeks meeting over NDIS legislation leak

We have written to the new NDIS Minister, Linda Reynolds, to request a meeting, and hope that we can offer people who have experienced brain injury, and their families and carers, rapid reassurance in the wake of these distressing revelations.

News

University of Sydney study to explore the impact of stroke on sexuality

Sydney University is conducting a research study about the experiences of sexuality post stroke to assist with the ongoing development of sexual rehabilitation for future stroke survivors within the LGBTQI+ community.

Events

30 Aug

Synapse Goulburn Reconnections – August

Our Goulburn peer group is a regular meet up for people with brain injury and their support network to connect face-to-face.

25 Oct

Synapse Goulburn Reconnections – October

Our Goulburn peer group is a regular meet up for people with brain injury and their support network to connect face-to-face.

24 Nov

Synapse Central Coast Reconnections – November

A regular meet up on the Central Coast for people with brain injury and their support network to come and connect with other individuals.

27 Oct

Synapse Central Coast Reconnections – October

A regular meet up on the Central Coast for people with brain injury and their support network to come and connect with other individuals.

10 Oct

Synapse Parramatta and Younger Generations Reconnections – October

A social group for anyone impacted by brain injury. Come and connect with others living with brain injury.

25 Aug

Synapse Central Coast Reconnections – August

A regular meet up on the Central Coast for people with brain injury and their support network to come and connect with other individuals.

News

Landmarks lit up to support #BIAW23

Landmarks across Australia and being lit up purple and yellow to support Brain Injury Awareness Week (21 - 27 August 2023). Locations include Brisbane, Perth, and Townsville.

Events

27 Sep

Synapse Goulburn Reconnections – September

Our Goulburn peer group is a regular meet up for people with brain injury and their support network to connect face-to-face.

29 Sep

Synapse Central Coast Reconnections – September

A regular meet up on the Central Coast for people with brain injury and their support network to come and connect with other individuals.

28 Jul

Synapse Central Coast Reconnections – July

A regular meet up on the Central Coast for people with brain injury and their support network to come and connect with other individuals.

7 Feb

Synapse Illawarra Reconnections – February

Our peer group in the Illawarra is a regular meet up for people with brain injury and their support network to connect face-to-face with other individuals living with brain injury and their families.

2 Jun

Synapse Reconnections WA – June

Regular in person and online meet-ups for those in WA wanting to connect with others living with a brain injury.

29 Nov

Synapse Goulburn Reconnections – November

Our Goulburn peer group is a regular meet up for people with brain injury and their support network to connect face-to-face.

News

NDIS participant booklets now in 17 languages, including Auslan

The NDIS made participant booklets available in 17 different languages, including digital braille and Auslan.

News

Media release: Synapse awarded Court Link pilot with an emphasis on lived experience

Synapse begins delivering the pilot brokerage model, Court Link Community Support Service (CLCS), the Queensland Government brokerage program to support a proportion of individuals accessing Court Link.

News

Art Therapy workshop

On August 17, we had an art therapy workshop in our Peer to Peer support group.

Events

15 Sep

Synapse Reconnections Sunshine Coast Over 65s – September

Come and meet up on the Sunshine Coast and connect with other people who're over 65 and living with a brain injury.

16 Sep

Synapse Canberra Reconnections – September

Our peer group in Canberra is a regular meet up for people with brain injury and their support network to connect face-to-face.

News

What is ABI the Facts?

ABI The Facts is a comprehensive brain injury resource for professionals, individuals and families. It provides simple explanations of complex medical terms and delivers guidance for every stage of the brain injury journey.

Events

21 Oct

Synapse Canberra Reconnections – October

Our peer group in Canberra is a regular meet up for people with brain injury and their support network to connect face-to-face.

18 Nov

Synapse Canberra Reconnections – November

Our peer group in Canberra is a regular meet up for people with brain injury and their support network to connect face-to-face.

13 Oct

Synapse Northern Beaches Reconnections – October

A regular meet up in the Northern Beaches of Sydney for people with a brain injury and their support network.

16 Dec

Synapse Canberra Reconnections – December

Our peer group in Canberra is a regular meet up for people with brain injury and their support network to connect face-to-face.

26 Aug

Synapse Canberra Reconnections – August

Our peer group in Canberra is a regular meet up for people with brain injury and their support network to connect face-to-face.

14 Jul

Synapse Northern Beaches Reconnections – July

A regular meet up in the Northern Beaches of Sydney for people with a brain injury and their support network.

11 Aug

Synapse Northern Beaches Reconnections – August

A regular meet up in the Northern Beaches of Sydney for people with a brain injury and their support network.

8 Sep

Synapse Northern Beaches Reconnections – September

A regular meet up in the Northern Beaches of Sydney for people with a brain injury and their support network.

21 Jul

Synapse Reconnections Sunshine Coast Over 65s – July

Come and meet up on the Sunshine Coast and connect with other people who're over 65 and living with a brain injury.

10 Nov

Synapse Northern Beaches Reconnections – November

A regular meet up in the Northern Beaches of Sydney for people with a brain injury and their support network.

8 Dec

Synapse Northern Beaches Reconnections – December

A regular meet up in the Northern Beaches of Sydney for people with a brain injury and their support network.

23 Aug

Synapse Reconnections for Family, Friends, Carers Dubbo – August

Join us and connect with other family, friends and support networks of people living with a brain injury across Dubbo.

Two Synapse workers discussing how to support brain injury

News

Growing Nationally, Engaging Locally

Despite the challenges presented by 2020, we are continuing to grow as Australia’s Brain Injury Organisation. With the expansion of our services in Western Australia and continued progress on several significant national projects, there are plenty of opportunities to join the Synapse team and make a difference for people impacted by brain injury.

Events

18 Aug

Synapse Reconnections Sunshine Coast Over 65s – August

Come and meet up on the Sunshine Coast and connect with other people who're over 65 and living with a brain injury.

20 Sep

Synapse QLD Reconnections (online) – September

Synapse Reconnections QLD group is held via Zoom online to bring together people with brain injury and their support networks across Queensland.

21 Mar

Synapse QLD Reconnections (online) – March

Synapse Reconnections QLD group is held via Zoom online to bring together people with brain injury and their support networks across Queensland.

5 Oct

Synapse Reconnections Sunshine Coast Over 65s – October

Come and meet up on the Sunshine Coast and connect with other people who're over 65 and living with a brain injury.

18 Oct

Synapse QLD Reconnections (online) – October

Synapse Reconnections QLD group is held via Zoom online to bring together people with brain injury and their support networks across Queensland.

16 Feb

Synapse Reconnections Sunshine Coast Over 65s – February

Come and meet up on the Sunshine Coast and connect with other people who're over 65 and living with a brain injury.

29 Jul

Synapse Canberra Reconnections – July

Our peer group in Canberra is a regular meet up for people with brain injury and their support network to connect face-to-face.

27 Apr

Synapse Reconnections Sunshine Coast Over 65s – April

Come and meet up on the Sunshine Coast and connect with other people who're over 65 and living with a brain injury.

25 May

Synapse Reconnections Sunshine Coast Over 65s – May

Come and meet up on the Sunshine Coast and connect with other people who're over 65 and living with a brain injury.

22 Jun

Synapse Reconnections Sunshine Coast Over 65s – June

Come and meet up on the Sunshine Coast and connect with other people who're over 65 and living with a brain injury.

21 Feb

Synapse QLD Reconnections (online) – February

Synapse Reconnections QLD group is held via Zoom online to bring together people with brain injury and their support networks across Queensland.

18 Apr

Synapse QLD Reconnections (online) – April

Synapse Reconnections QLD group is held via Zoom online to bring together people with brain injury and their support networks across Queensland.

16 May

Synapse QLD Reconnections (online) – May

Synapse Reconnections QLD group is held via Zoom online to bring together people with brain injury and their support networks across Queensland.

20 Jun

Synapse QLD Reconnections (online) – June

Synapse Reconnections QLD group is held via Zoom online to bring together people with brain injury and their support networks across Queensland.

19 - 20 July

EVENT CANCELLED: People’s Experiences of the NDIS exhibition

An immersive exhibition bringing together participants experiences with the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) through art.

7 Dec

Synapse Reconnections Sunshine Coast Over 65s – December

Come and meet up on the Sunshine Coast and connect with other people who're over 65 and living with a brain injury.

18 Jul

Synapse QLD Reconnections (online) – July

Synapse Reconnections QLD group is held via Zoom online to bring together people with brain injury and their support networks across Queensland.

15 Aug

Synapse QLD Reconnections (online) – August

Synapse Reconnections QLD group is held via Zoom online to bring together people with brain injury and their support networks across Queensland.

21 Nov

Synapse QLD Reconnections (online) – November

Synapse Reconnections QLD group is held via Zoom online to bring together people with brain injury and their support networks across Queensland.

19 Dec

Synapse QLD Reconnections (online) – December

Synapse Reconnections QLD group is held via Zoom online to bring together people with brain injury and their support networks across Queensland.

News

April & May Reconnections Groups

Find March and April support groups for those impacted by a brain injury. Support groups can be critical in helping cope with a brain injury.

Events

2 Nov

Synapse Reconnections Sunshine Coast Over 65s – November

Come and meet up on the Sunshine Coast and connect with other people who're over 65 and living with a brain injury.

23 Mar

Synapse Reconnections Sunshine Coast Over 65s – March

Come and meet up on the Sunshine Coast and connect with other people who're over 65 and living with a brain injury.

26 Oct

Regional QLD Brain Injury Network event (online)

We're inviting anyone in regional or remote QLD to join the Synapse team for an online brain injury networking event.

14 Mar

Synapse Reconnections Younger Generation WA – March

A social group for anyone impacted by brain injury aged 16 to 35 year old’s. Come and connect with others living with brain injury.

News

Encephalitis as a cause of Acquired Brain Injury

In this special conversation, guests Corinna Melville, Rachael Schwarz, Veronique Theberge and Karen Tighe from across Australia and New Zealand discuss how Encephalitis can affect anyone of any age or gender, and share their intimate experiences of what it is like to survive.

Events

18 Dec

Synapse Hunter Reconnections – December

Our Hunter peer group is a regular meet up for people with brain injury and their support network to connect face-to-face.

6 Jun

Synapse Illawarra Reconnections – June

Our peer group in the Illawarra is a regular meet up for people with brain injury and their support network to connect face-to-face.

14 Sep

Synapse Reconnections for Family, Friends, Carers (online) QLD – September

An online group for Queensland carers and family of people living with brain injury to share and connect.

14 Mar

Synapse Younger Generation Reconnections NSW – March

A social group for anyone impacted by brain injury aged 16 to 35 years old. Come and connect with others living with brain injury.

17 Aug

Synapse Reconnections for Family, Friends, Carers (online) QLD – August

An online group for Queensland carers and family of people living with brain injury to share and connect.

21 Aug

Synapse Hunter Reconnections – August

Our Hunter peer group is a regular meet up for people with brain injury and their support network to connect face-to-face.

3 Oct

Synapse Illawarra Reconnections – October

Our peer group in the Illawarra is a regular meet up for people with brain injury and their support network to connect face-to-face.

7 Nov

Synapse Illawarra Reconnections – November

Our peer group in the Illawarra is a regular meet up for people with brain injury and their support network to connect face-to-face.

5 Dec

Synapse Illawarra Reconnections – December

Our peer group in the Illawarra is a regular meet up for people with brain injury and their support network to connect face-to-face.

16 Oct

Synapse Hunter Reconnections – October

Our Hunter peer group is a regular meet up for people with brain injury and their support network to connect face-to-face.

20 Nov

Synapse Hunter Reconnections – November

Our Hunter peer group is a regular meet up for people with brain injury and their support network to connect face-to-face.

14 Feb

Synapse Reconnections Younger Generation WA – February

A social group for anyone impacted by brain injury aged 16 to 35 year old’s. Come and connect with others living with brain injury.

News

Brain Injury Awareness Week – ‘Welcome to our World’: Social Isolation after Brain Injury

Brain Injury Awareness Week is being held this year 17-23 August. Our theme for 2020 is ‘Welcome to our World’: Social Isolation after Brain Injury.

Events

4 Jul

Synapse Illawarra Reconnections – July

Our peer group in the Illawarra is a regular meet up for people with brain injury and their support network to connect face-to-face.

1 Aug

Synapse Illawarra Reconnections – August

Our peer group in the Illawarra is a regular meet up for people with brain injury and their support network to connect face-to-face.

2 May

Synapse Illawarra Reconnections – May

Our peer group in the Illawarra is a regular meet up for people with brain injury and their support network to connect face-to-face.

News

Reconnections – Dance with Ability

A few weeks back members of the Reconnections community met online to participate in ‘Dance with Ability’. This therapy-based dance program was great fun for everyone and showed how dance can build self-confidence and general health. You can re-watch the session and get moving to some great tunes with Shane and Keri.

News

NAIDOC Week 2021 – Heal Country!

When we talk about country it's about a connection to both land and culture - more than just place. Country is who our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are and where they get their strength from.

Events

6 Sep

Synapse Reconnections Mandarin – September

This Reconnections group is for Mandarin speaking people living with brain injury, their family members and carers.

14 Feb

Synapse Younger Generation Reconnections NSW – February

A social group for anyone impacted by brain injury aged 16 to 35 years old. Come and connect with others living with brain injury.

5 Sep

Synapse Illawarra Reconnections – September

Our peer group in the Illawarra is a regular meet up for people with brain injury and their support network to connect face-to-face.

21 Feb

Synapse Reconnections for Family, Friends, Carers (online) – February

An online group for carers and family of people living with brain injury to connect and share their experiences.

18 Sep

Synapse Hunter Reconnections – September

Our Hunter peer group is a regular meet up for people with brain injury and their support network to connect face-to-face.

4 Apr

Synapse Illawarra Reconnections – April

Our peer group in the Illawarra is a regular meet up for people with brain injury and their support network to connect face-to-face.

7 Mar

Synapse Illawarra Reconnections – March

Our peer group in the Illawarra is a regular meet up for people with brain injury and their support network to connect face-to-face.

1 Nov

Synapse Reconnections Mandarin – November

This Reconnections group is for Mandarin speaking people living with brain injury, their family members and carers.

11 Oct

Synapse Reconnections Mandarin – October

This Reconnections group is for Mandarin speaking people living with brain injury, their family members and carers.

14 Dec

Synapse Reconnections for Family, Friends, Carers (online) QLD – December

An online group for Queensland carers and family of people living with brain injury to share and connect.

21 Mar

Synapse Reconnections for Family, Friends, Carers (online) – March

An online group for carers and family of people living with brain injury to take some time out in a supportive space.

13 Jun

Synapse Younger Generation Reconnections NSW – June

A social group for anyone impacted by brain injury aged 16 to 35 years old. Come and connect with others living with brain injury.

19 Oct

Synapse Wagga Wagga Reconnections – October

Our peer group in the Wagga Wagga is a regular meet up for people with brain injury and their support network to connect face-to-face.

9 May

Synapse Younger Generation Reconnections NSW – May

A social group for anyone impacted by brain injury aged 16 to 35 years old. Come and connect with others living with brain injury.

11 Apr

Synapse Younger Generation Reconnections NSW – April

A social group for anyone impacted by brain injury aged 16 to 35 years old. Come and connect with others living with brain injury.

6 Dec

Synapse Reconnections Mandarin – December

This Reconnections group is for Mandarin speaking people living with brain injury, their family members and carers.

16 Nov

Synapse Wagga Wagga Reconnections – November

Our peer group in the Wagga Wagga is a regular meet up for people with brain injury and their support network to connect face-to-face.

21 Dec

Synapse Wagga Wagga Reconnections – December

Our peer group in the Wagga Wagga is a regular meet up for people with brain injury and their support network to connect face-to-face.

26 Jul

Synapse Reconnections for Family, Friends, Carers (online) QLD – July

An online group for Queensland carers and family of people living with brain injury to share ands connect.

3 Nov

Synapse Parramatta Reconnections – November

Our Parramatta Reconnections group is a regular meet up for people with brain injury and their support network to connect face-to-face.

1 Dec

Synapse Parramatta Reconnections – December

Our Parramatta Reconnections group is a regular meet up for people with brain injury and their support network to connect face-to-face.

17 Aug

Synapse Wagga Wagga Reconnections – August

Our peer group in the Wagga Wagga is a regular meet up for people with brain injury and their support network to connect face-to-face.

14 Nov

Synapse Younger Generation Reconnections NSW – November

A social group for anyone impacted by brain injury aged 16 to 35 years old. Come and connect with others living with brain injury.

12 Dec

Synapse Younger Generation Reconnections NSW – December

A social group for anyone impacted by brain injury aged 16 to 35 years old. Come and connect with others living with brain injury.

21 Nov

Synapse Reconnections for Family, Friends, Carers (online) – November

An online group for carers and family of people living with brain injury to take some time out in a supportive space.

19 Dec

Synapse Reconnections for Family, Friends, Carers (online) – December

An online group for carers and family of people living with brain injury to take some time out in a supportive space.

News

Self-care tips from our community: National Carer’s Week 2021

National Carer's Week is upon us! Here are some top tips from our community for self-care.

Events

19 Oct

Synapse Reconnections for Family, Friends, Carers (online) QLD – October

An online group for Queensland carers and family of people living with brain injury to share and connect.

21 Sep

Synapse Wagga Wagga Reconnections – September

Our peer group in the Wagga Wagga is a regular meet up for people with brain injury and their support network to connect face-to-face.

8 Aug

Synapse Younger Generation Reconnections NSW – August

A social group for anyone impacted by brain injury aged 16 to 35 years old. Come and connect with others living with brain injury.

11 Jul

Synapse Younger Generation Reconnections NSW – July

A social group for anyone impacted by brain injury aged 16 to 35 years old. Come and connect with others living with brain injury.

4 Aug

Synapse Parramatta Reconnections – August

Our Parramatta Reconnections group is a regular meet up for people with brain injury and their support network to connect face-to-face.

23 Nov

Synapse Reconnections for Family, Friends, Carers (online) QLD – November

An online group for Queensland carers and family of people living with brain injury to share and connect.

7 Jul

Synapse Parramatta Reconnections – July

Our Parramatta Reconnections group is a regular meet up for people with brain injury and their support network to connect face-to-face.

27 Jul

Synapse Wagga Wagga Reconnections – July

Our peer group in the Wagga Wagga is a regular meet up for people with brain injury and their support network to connect face-to-face.

2 Aug

Synapse Reconnections Mandarin – August

This Reconnections group is for Mandarin speaking people living with brain injury, their family members and carers.

5 Jul

Synapse Reconnections Mandarin – July

This Reconnections group is for Mandarin speaking people living with brain injury, their family members and carers.

News

Synapse Announced as Finalists for HESTA Excellence Awards

The HESTA Excellence Awards recognise exceptional achievements in a range of settings across aged care, allied health, community services and disability services. Synapse has been nominated for Outstanding Organisation in Disability Services, a testament to the hard work of our committed staff.

News

Brain Injury Awareness Week – August 16 – 22, 2021

Brain Injury Awareness Week 2021 recognises that every brain injury is different and shares the stories of those impacted

Events

31 Aug

Synapse Community Drop-in Session Caboolture – August

Drop-in and speak to members of the Synapse Information team in a safe and friendly environment in Caboolture.

1 Sep

Synapse Parramatta Reconnections – September

Our Parramatta Reconnections group is a regular meet up for people with brain injury and their support network to connect face-to-face.

12 Sep

Synapse Younger Generation Reconnections NSW – September

A social group for anyone impacted by brain injury aged 16 to 35 years old. Come and connect with others living with brain injury.

19 Sep

Synapse Reconnections for Family, Friends, Carers (online) – September

An online group for carers and family of people living with brain injury to take some time out in a supportive space.

17 Oct

Synapse Reconnections for Family, Friends, Carers (online) – October

An online group for carers and family of people living with brain injury to take some time out in a supportive space.

News

Create Calm – All Abilities Yoga Session

Presented by good friend of Synapse Julie Clark during Brain Injury Awareness Week 2021, this is an opportunity to take time out for yourself and join in this 40 minute class.

Events

7 Sep

Synapse Shoalhaven Reconnections – September

Our Shoalhaven brain injury group is a regular meet up for people with brain injury and their support network.

3 Aug

Synapse Shoalhaven Reconnections – August

Our Shoalhaven brain injury group is a regular meet up for people with brain injury and their support network.

14 Sep

Synapse Caboolture Reconnections – September

Our Caboolture Reconnections group is a regular meet up for people with brain injury and their support network to connect face-to-face.

6 Jul

Synapse Shoalhaven Reconnections – July

Our Shoalhaven brain injury group is a regular meet up for people with brain injury and their support network.

5 Oct

Synapse Caboolture Reconnections – October

Our Caboolture Reconnections group is a regular meet up for people with brain injury and their support network to connect face-to-face.

News

Body Percussion Session

We learned how to get our hands and feet drumming in our regular Coffee with Jay.

Events

2 Nov

Synapse Caboolture Reconnections – November

Our Caboolture Reconnections group is a regular meet up for people with brain injury and their support network to connect face-to-face.

30 Nov

Synapse Caboolture Reconnections – November

Our Caboolture Reconnections group is a regular meet up for people with brain injury and their support network to connect face-to-face.

14 Dec

Synapse Caboolture Reconnections – December

Our Caboolture Reconnections group is a regular meet up for people with brain injury and their support network to connect face-to-face.

5 Oct

Synapse Shoalhaven Reconnections – October

Our Shoalhaven brain injury group is a regular meet up for people with brain injury and their support network.

2 Nov

Synapse Shoalhaven Reconnections – November

Our Shoalhaven brain injury group is a regular meet up for people with brain injury and their support network.

7 Dec

Synapse Shoalhaven Reconnections – December

Our Shoalhaven brain injury group is a regular meet up for people with brain injury and their support network.

17 Feb

Synapse Reconnections South-West WA

Connect with others living with a brain injury, as well as their carers & families living across South-West WA.

News

Finding a home that’s right for you

For many of us, a brain injury makes it hard to live in the place we called home. So how do you go about making your house more accessible to you? How do you find out about alternatives? What support can you get along the way?