“People assume that because I have a disability I’m not interested in sex. That’s just wrong”
July 3, 2025
Joel, a proud non-binary person with disability, has spent much of their life growing into and owning their identity, finding confidence and belonging through Melba’s Arthur Creative. They are telling their story to speak out about the importance of visibility, respect, and recognising that people with disability deserve the same rights to intimacy, love and identity as anyone else.
“No one should make you feel ashamed for who you are. That’s not OK”
July 2, 2025
At 30, Olivia* embraced her identity as a bisexual woman, a journey made more complex by her family’s lack of understanding. While her friends accept and support her, her family struggles to see her as an adult with agency, dreams, and the right to love. As we celebrate Pride Month, Olivia hopes her story will inspire others to live authentically and be seen for who they truly are.
“I like to dance, but I don’t have much time to do it, especially when I’m DJing”
June 13, 2025
By day, John is an active member of our Community Connections crew. By night, he can be found DJing and sometimes MCing at Melba events – so it probably won’t surprise you to learn that John is considered a Melba celebrity! We recently caught up with him to learn a little more about his love for music – and what he loves to cook.
“I have a fantastic relationship with my cerebral palsy”
April 11, 2025
Melinda Smith is a powerhouse of creativity and self-expression, constantly pushing boundaries through her work as a dancer, writer, artist and mentor. With passion and purpose, she uses movement and technology to challenge perceptions of disability and inspire others to embrace their own potential.
Navigating two journeys: Tristan on disability and gender identity
March 31, 2025
For Tristan, life has been defined by two profound journeys: coming to terms with his gender identity and adapting to life with quadriplegia. His story of resilience and self-discovery offers powerful insights for those navigating similar paths.
“I wasn’t going to let the pain stop me from living”
March 4, 2025
Ryan’s story challenges the clichés often attached to disability and redefines what it truly means to be inspiring. With quiet determination and a no-nonsense attitude, he faces every obstacle head-on—choosing action over sympathy and possibility over limitation.
Melba Support Services acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and recognises First Peoples’ continuing connection to lands, waters, and community. We pay our respects to Elders past and present who carry the memories, traditions, cultures, and aspirations of First Peoples, and who forge the path ahead for future leaders.