Meet Tom, a chef with big dreams

Tom lives in one of our Supported Independent Living homes, where his NDIS funded support helps him build independence, routine and confidence. His story shows how the right support can open a real path into work, connection and long term goals.

From the kitchen sink to professional kitchens

Tom's cooking life started in North Sydney in 2018, washing dishes and learning the basics of kitchen work. Since then he has worked across pubs, bakeries and catering, picking up experience and confidence in every role.

Along the way he has cooked for well known guests including Andy Murray, Shaquille O'Neal and Paul Rudd. For Tom it has never been about the names.

"I love the diversity in cultures. The food, the influence, and the people. It opens up so many doors for future inspiration. I thrive on the pressure and structure of gastronomy," Tom says.

What matters most to him is growing, learning and showing up every day with purpose.

"Having work gives you the best sense of purpose in life. It's like exercise. It keeps you sharp and motivated."

Why work matters in Supported Independent Living

For Tom, work gives structure, focus and a strong sense of belonging. The kitchen is where he builds skills, gets creative and gains confidence through routine and responsibility.

Work matters for a lot of people living in Supported Independent Living. It supports independence, social connection and identity, and it strengthens the daily living skills that carry over into life outside work.

How support at home builds a path to work

Supported Independent Living gives a member the support they need at home to build daily living skills, routines and independence, while working towards goals such as employment and getting out into the community.

At Kintera Care we support members to:

• build routines that suit work and wellbeing

• grow confidence and independence at home

• connect with work and community opportunities

• work towards their own goals at their own pace

Tom's journey is one example of how the right home and steady support make work sustainable and meaningful.

Giving back through food

Outside paid work, Tom volunteers at Our Big Kitchen in Bondi, a not for profit that prepares meals for people in need.

"I love helping out and giving back. It's a great feeling knowing you can use your skills to help others."

Volunteering has given him another way to be part of his community while he keeps building his skills.

Dreaming big, from farm to plate

Tom's long term goal reaches beyond the kitchen. He wants to open his own farm to plate pub in the Hunter Valley, growing produce, raising livestock and making his own wines, beers and spirits.

"Eventually I want to put all my skills together and open up my own pub. I've always been fascinated by the farm-to-plate idea."

It is a clear example of how work can spark ambition and help someone map out a future with direction.

Why inclusive employment works

When people are supported to find work and keep it, they do more than work. They contribute, they belong and they grow. Tom's story is one of many that show what is possible when opportunity is matched with the right support.

Supporting people to live with purpose

Work is part of our wider commitment to helping members live full lives on their own terms. If you would like to talk about support at home, or about a member's goals for work and community, we are happy to have that conversation.