Down Syndrome
Use this page to get an overview of the options available to you. Scroll through the sections, or click one of the jump-to links below to go straight to the area mentioned.
Down syndrome explained
Down syndrome is the most common intellectual disability with more than 13,000 Australians currently living with the condition. Many people living with Down syndrome lead happy and normal lives within their communities, while others may require high support due to complex health issues or a greater level of intellectual disability. Learn more about Down syndrome and the supports available below.
Who can help?
There are a number of professionals who can help you work through the different challenges of a Down syndrome diagnosis. They can help you to understand and adapt to the condition and also give you the tools and support to gain a variety of skills such as communication or social interactions, manage behaviours or learn important life skills.
Paediatricians
Paediatricians manage the health of children, including physical, behaviour and mental health issues. They diagnose and treat childhood illness, infections and disease.
Speech Therapists
Speech therapists work on smoothing out communication and swallowing difficulties in both children and adults.
Support for people with autism
From understanding accommodation options to getting help with childhood supports, accessing in home support or learning important life skills, there is a wide range of support services available to help you if you are looking for assistance to manage day-to-day life with Down syndrome.
Childhood Supports
Early childhood intervention supports can help maximise your child's development and give them the skills to participate in daily activities.
Community Support
Being social and active in your community helps you to remain connected and is good for your wellbeing.
Education
Students with disability can access additional support at primary and high school through both internal and external services.
In-Home Support
Supports such as personal care, cleaning or nursing care to help look after you in your own home.
Down syndrome related information articles
Here you’ll find a selection of information articles related to Down syndrome that have been published on Disability Support Guide to help you understand the condition or give further insight into getting the right supports.
Assistive technology equipment, home or vehicle modifications are funded through the Capital support...
Afford
Afford provides disability services across Australia including Supported Independent Living...
Afford
Afford provides disability services across Australia including Supported Independent Living...
Assistive technology equipment, home or vehicle modifications are funded through the Capital support...
Capacity Building supports can pay for therapies or services that help improve your independence.
Key...
If you have a disability you may be able to receive Government support through the National Disability...
You will only be able to access the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) if you meet all of the...
Your Core budget is made up of supports that will help you go about your daily life while working towards...
As of February 16, 2024, there are an estimated 646,000 people with disability who are active National...
Not every Australian has access to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) – some people with...
Popular Down Syndrome Articles
Afford Copy
Afford Afford provides disability services across Australia including Supported Independent Living (SIL) Homes, Community Centres, Short Term Accommodation,…
Afford
Afford Afford provides disability services across Australia including Supported Independent Living (SIL) Homes, Community Centres, Short Term Accommodation,…
What is Capital support?
Assistive technology equipment, home or vehicle modifications are funded through the Capital support budget. Key points What is…
