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A Legacy of Inclusion, Independence and Possibility

For over 75 years, Cara and its predecessor organisations have played an important role in supporting South Australians with disability to live meaningful, self-directed lives. What began as a movement to provide support, advocacy and opportunity for people with disability has grown into one of South Australia’s leading disability service providers, helping thousands of individuals experience greater independence, joy, purpose and belonging.

1945 – The Beginning of Possibility

Eva Dennis OAM

1948 – A Movement Takes Shape

South Australian Spastic Paralysis Welfare Association (SASPWA) Established

Early 1950’s - Dr Earl Carlson inspires a Vision

A Champion for Progress and Possibility

1951 – A Place to Call Home

Woodford

1959 – A Teacher, Advocate and Trailblazer

Evelyn Powell OAM

1959 – Never Forgotten

Forget-Me-Not

1978 – Building the Foundation for the Future

James A Nelson OAM

1983 – A New Name, A Broader Vision

Becoming the Spastic Centres of South Australia (SCOSA)

The People Behind the Mission

Anne Skipper AM and Edna Redman

1988 – A Voice at the Table

Trevor Harrison

1993 – Supporting Life Beyond the Centre

Creation of the Community Accommodation and Respite Agency (CARA)

1993 – A Family’s Lasting Legacy

Formation of the Gawler Spastic Centre Auxiliary – The Fischer Family

1994 – Leadership for a New Beginning

Greg Box

May 1995 – Cara Stands on Its Own

Cara Becomes an Independent Organisation

1995–2015 - Expanding Possibility Across SA

Growth, Innovation and Greater Independence

2016-2025 – Embracing Choice and Control

Growth, Innovation and Greater Independence

2025 – Celebrating 30 Years of Possibility

Honouring Our Past, Shaping Our Future

Today

We’re not a disability service; we’re a Possibility Service.

Our services

Personalised Day Options

Cara’s Day Options help you build a week that works for you, with meaningful activities and community connection. Learn new skills, meet people, and try new experiences with support from our team.

Service Agreements & Rates

Understand how much your NDIS supports cost, your terms and conditions and other important information about our services.

Home and Community Support (HCS)

Cara staff can work with you in your home, the family home, or in the community so you can do the things which matter to you.

Short Term Accommodation (STA)

Take a break, have fun and socialise with new people. Cara offers a range of breaks to experience new things, learn and grow while making friends and gaining confidence.