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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY

The Australian Government acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and acknowledges their continuing connection to land, waters and community. We pay our respects to the people, the cultures and the Elders past and present.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people should be aware that this website may contain images, voices and names of deceased persons.

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​​Disability Gateway supporting Graham to live strong with Spina Bifida​

Portrait of Graham

​​The Disability Gateway helped Graham to find the information, services and support he needed to stay connected.​

​​Being born with spina bifida, Graham, a Yolngu man from Arnhem Land, was told he wouldn’t walk.  

​“My parents were told I wouldn’t be able to walk. But the doctors and nurses encouraged me to keep trying, so I did. I couldn’t walk until I was 12, but I never gave up. Exercise helped me get stronger, even though it was hard at first. Now I do leg and arm workouts to stay fit and healthy” he said. 

Image
Graham working out in a gym

​Graham is part of an art group that does music, painting, and acting. It helps him build confidence, meet new people, and stay active.  

​The Disability Gateway is a free service funded by the Australian Government. It helps people with disability, their families and carers find the information, services and support they need in Australia. The Disability Gateway has helped Graham connect with services.

​“I feel proud and confident using Disability Gateway services. They help people with disability find support and learn new skills. I’m also learning more about fun things to do through the Gateway. I recommend it to anyone who needs help,” said Graham 

​Visit disabilitygateway.gov.au or call 1800 643 787 (Monday to Friday, 8am to 8pm AET).​