We are launching an exciting research project that will explore the experiences of people who use customised assistive technology, as well as the perspectives of families, carers, referrers, and other stakeholders.

At the heart of this project is a simple but important belief: people come before technology.

As part of our ongoing commitment to human-centred design, we want to understand not only how assistive technology supports everyday activities, but also how it may contribute to confidence, self-esteem, social participation, and overall quality of life.

Why This Research Matters

Technology should never be the focus in isolation. The most meaningful solutions are those that are built around the needs, goals, and experiences of the people who use them.

This research will help us answer important questions such as:

• How does customised assistive technology support daily living?
• Does assistive technology help people feel more independent and confident?
• Can personalised solutions improve social participation and community connection?
• What matters most to people living with disability when designing technology solutions?
• How can organisations better support people through human-centred approaches?

The findings will provide valuable insights not only for TADSA, but also for other organisations, service providers, researchers, and policymakers seeking to better understand the lived experiences of people with disability and ageing-related challenges.

Expressions of Interest Now Open

We are currently seeking Expressions of Interest (EOIs) from individuals who may wish to participate in this project.

We welcome interest from:

• People with disability
• Current and former TADSA clients
• Family members and carers
• Referrers and health professionals
• Support workers
• Anyone interested in contributing to the evidence base for customised assistive technology and human-centred solutions

At this stage, we are seeking to understand who would like to be involved. Once participant numbers and interests are confirmed, the detailed research design will be developed and further information will be provided before any surveys or focus groups commence.

How You Can Participate

We are considering a combination of focus groups and questionnaire surveys to ensure as many people as possible can contribute.

Focus Groups

Focus groups provide an opportunity for meaningful face-to-face conversations where participants can:

• Share their experiences in detail
• Discuss challenges and successes
• Explore different perspectives with others
• Build understanding between people with disability and stakeholders
• Raise concerns and identify opportunities for improvement

These conversations can provide rich insights into people’s needs while also creating valuable connections between participants.

As one of the most effective ways to understand real-world experiences, focus groups help ensure that people’s voices are genuinely heard.

Questionnaire Surveys

For participants who live in regional or remote areas, have limited mobility, or simply prefer another option, surveys will also be available.

Surveys may be offered:

• Online
• Via a shared survey link
• In printed format through the mail

Questionnaires will allow us to gather valuable quantitative data while ensuring broad participation from across the community.

Building the Evidence Together

We are particularly excited to be working with Robin and the wider community to strengthen the evidence behind customised assistive technology and the services that support it.

This project is an opportunity for people to share their experiences, concerns, ideas, and aspirations. The information gathered will help TADSA improve services, advocate more effectively, and better support people living with disability and ageing-related challenges.

Most importantly, it will ensure that the voices of those with lived experience remain at the centre of future developments.

Project Timeline

The research is expected to commence later this year following:

1. Confirmation of participant interest and numbers
2. Development of the research design
3. Preparation of focus groups and survey tools
4. Ethics and project planning requirements (where applicable)

Following data collection, we will analyse the findings and share outcomes through:

• A research report
• Journal publications
• Conference presentations
• Community updates

We anticipate sharing key findings during the following year.

Get Involved

This research has the potential to create meaningful change by improving our understanding of how personalised assistive technology can support independence, wellbeing, and social participation.

If you would like to contribute to a stronger evidence base for human-centred technology and help shape future services for people living with disability, we would love to hear from you.

To express your interest or learn more, email admin@tadsa.org.au or contact TADSA directly 08 8261 2922.

Together, we can build a deeper understanding of what truly matters to people and ensure that technology continues to serve human needs first.