WARA YINDI SUPPORT SERVICES
We acknowledge and pay respect to the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we live, play, grow and work, and of the many different mobs across Australia.
We pay our respects to the Elders, past, present and emerging, as the holders of the memories, the traditions, the culture and the spiritual wellbeing of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples across our beautiful Country.
We acknowledge and pay respects to all those with a lived or living experience of suicide, mental health. We offer a safe and inclusive environment for all people living with disability.
We pay our respects, our appreciation and gratitude to all language groups, mobs, Elders and Aboriginal people of Australia. We acknowledge and pay respect to lost language within Aboriginal mobs across Australia.
For us, the reason behind what we do, is to continue to provide Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people a service that focuses on connection - community- culture. We will always respect, be mindful and respectful of services we provide, and the opportunity to incorporate language into our business name.
About Wara Yindi Support Services
Welcome to Wara Yindi, where we provide culturally safe and community-focused NDIS services for those living in regional and remote South Australia. Co-founders Jacinta Dempsey and Jayden Taylor are dedicated to supporting both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal families. With over decade of experience in community services, Jacinta brings a wealth of knowledge, while Jayden, a proud Barngarla and Kokotha male, serves as a positive role model for young people.
Here, we celebrate the lived experiences of children with disabilities and their incredible journeys. We are parents of children with disability and medical needs, and Jacinta has disability and chronic medical complexities.
At Wara Yindi Support Services, our mission is to leverage our lived experiences and professional expertise to develop meaningful services that give back to the community. We are committed to reducing gaps and barriers in accessing culturally safe disability supports. By thinking outside the box and actively seeking ongoing feedback from families and communities, we ensure that our services are responsive to the needs of those we serve Together, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all. Our passion for community advocacy drives us to provide regional and remote support, ensuring that every child's voice is heard and valued.
Our name reflects the deep cultural of Aboriginal languages, which vary across different mobs in Australia in some dialects, "Wara" signifies care, or "happy valley." Although "Yindi" may not have a direct translation in Barngarla, Kokotha, or Far West Coast languages, it embodies essence of warmth and light in various cultures, representing the sun.
We honor language groups, Elders, and Aboriginal people of Australia, aiming to foster connection and community through our services. Together, we strive to foster connections and individuals to thrive.
Meet the Founders
Jacinta Dempsey
Jayden Taylor
Meet Jacinta, an expert in coordination and recovery coaching, dedicated to empowering children and families to achieve their NDIS goals through emotional regulation, skills, and more.
Jayden brings a wealth of in cultural engagement and peer support, aiming to create enriching sessions and training opportunities for children and teens.
Based in Whyalla, they are passionate parents to two wonderful, Cooper and Bodhi, and strive to be role models for young families particularly within the Aboriginal community.
Together, they are committed to making a meaningful impact in the lives of those they support.
Meet our Team
Hayley Gooding
Hayley combines her personal journey and professional expertise to passionately support children with additional and complex needs. Growing up with a brother diagnosed with and ASD/ADHD ignited her interest in neurodiversity and reinforced her commitment to helping families access essential understanding and support.
Through her experience in early childhood education, Hayley discovered her true calling lies in advocating for children with higher needs, ensuring they feel safe, understood, and empowered. With a heartfelt dedication, she strives to create a nurturing environment where both children and families can.
Hayley is passionate about helping children feel safe, understood, and capable, and supporting families to build confidence, understanding, and strong support networks.
Services Available
Supports Now Available – Wara Yindi Support Services
Core Services
Support Work & Mentoring Practical assistance, cultural mentoring, daily living skills, and positive role modelling.
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Transport Assistance Safe, reliable transport to appointments, community activities, and social events.
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Learner Driver Hours Supervised driving practice to build confidence and independence.
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Employment Pathways (with StaySafe Training RTO 45400) Work readiness, training, and career exploration.
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Inclusive Sporting Groups Accessible, fun sporting activities that build confidence and connection.
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Life Skills Transition Support Help with Centrelink, housing, budgeting, healthcare, study, and independence.
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Parenting & Peer Support Safe spaces for parents/carers to learn strategies, connect, and reduce isolation.
Capacity Building Services
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Support Coordination Helping families navigate the NDIS, understand plans, and connect with the right supports.
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Life Skills Transition Support Help with Centrelink, housing, budgeting, healthcare, study, and independence.
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Parenting & Peer Support Safe spaces for parents/carers to learn strategies, connect, and reduce isolation.
New Services
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Skills Development Groups
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Social Groups
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Movie & Arts/Craft Group
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Cooking Group
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Life Skills Development Programs
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Training & Support for Parents/Carers
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School-term 1:1 support (school, home, or office) focusing on:
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Social skills
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Friendships
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Emotional regulation
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Bullying support
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Routines
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Safety
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Educational learning
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Practical daily living skills
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Online Self-Pace or Group Training
Online Self Paced Learning
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Advanced Skills for NDIS Support Workers
This online course is designed for intermediate NDIS support workers seeking to enhance their skills in trauma-informed care, inclusion practices, and supporting individuals with disabilities. Covering critical topics such as behaviour management, incident reporting, and the NDIS framework, participants will gain knowledge necessary to support clients effectively.
The course includes a quiz to reinforce learning, resources for further exploration, and a certificate upon completion, ensuring that learners are well-equipped to provide high-quality support in their roles.
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Emotional Regulation and Parenting Practices for Caregivers of Children with Disabilities
This course is designed for intermediate parents and caregivers of children with disabilities, focusing on emotional regulation strategies and effective parenting practices. Participants will engage with concepts such as the Circle of Security, co-regulation support, and low demand parenting. By exploring practical approaches to managing emotions, promoting positive behaviour, and utilising sensory support, caregivers will gain the skills necessary to create a nurturing environment. The course offers insights into assistive technology and restorative practices to facilitate effective interactions with adolescents and children.
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Understanding and Supporting Neurodivergent Children: A Parent and Carer Education Course
This course is designed for parents and carers of neurodivergent children to enhance their understanding of various cognitive and developmental differences. Participants will learn strategies for supporting their children's needs at home, in the community, and within educational settings. The program will also address topics such as emotional regulation, sensory needs, and communication with NDIS services. By the end of the course, participants will gain the skills necessary to advocate effectively for their child and promote their well-being and inclusion in society.
Group Programs Overview
We offer a variety of evidence-based, culturally safe group programs designed for children young people, parents, and families in regional South Australia. Our programs are available online, in-person, or through a mixed delivery format, ensuring accessibility to everyone. All sessions are trauma-informed and child-centered, led by experienced practitioners who are committed to supporting your journey. Certificates of completion are provided, and we offer flexible funding options, including NDIS and tailored packages for schools and community groups.
PROGRAMS AVAILABLE
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Renegotiating Angry & Guilty Emotions is an anger-management and emotional regulation program helps young people identify their triggers, develop coping strategies, and enhance their relationships. Available online, in-person, or in a mixed format, it is designed for youth facing emotional regulation challenges, bullying, or school disengagement. Participants will engage in workbook activities, role-plays, and group discussions to foster personal growth and understanding.
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Managing the Bull is a resilience-building program targets children who are dealing with bullying, social difficulties, or low self-confidence. Offered both online and in-person, it focuses on understanding bullying, developing assertiveness skills, and emotional regulation, while also promoting the formation of safe. Through interactive sessions, children will gain the tools needed to navigate social challenges effectively.
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Our Circle of Security Parenting program is designed for parents and caregivers, providing valuable insights into strengthening and understanding children's emotional needs. We offer flexible delivery options, including online,-person, and mixed formats to cater to your preferences. Additionally, our
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KIMOCHI Social-Emotional Learning program supports children aged 4-12 in developing emotional literacy and communication skills through playful with Kimochi characters, ideal for those with ASD, ADHD, and anxiety.
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123 Magic & Emotion Coaching, a practical and easy-to-use parenting program designed to empower parents and carers. Our program focuses on effective behavior management, emotional coaching, and establishing consistent routines, available both online and in-person. For families seeking structure and support for calmer home environments, this program is your solution.
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Engaging Adolescents, a strengths-based program tailored for parents and carers of teens. This program helps you navigate the complexities of teenage behavior, enhancing communication, setting boundaries, and resolving conflicts. Join us online or in-person to foster de-escalation and relationship repair in your family.
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Our Sandplay & Expression Groups provide a safe space for emotional expression and trauma recovery through sensory-based activities. Facilitated by trained Sandplay practitioners, these in sessions are ideal for children facing anxiety and emotional regulation challenges.
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DRUMBEAT program, which uses rhythm and drumming to foster connection, confidence, and teamwork among youth and adults.
Additionally, we can tailor group packages for schools, community organizations, and parent networks, on social skills, emotional regulation, and cultural connection. Let us help you a supportive environment for growth and healing!
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Community Support Available
We understand that families often need support beyond the NDIS. To help reduce pressure and improve access to essential items, we are able to assist with the following:
Food & Clothing Support
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Foodbank Vouchers
We can provide Foodbank vouchers to eligible families to help with essential groceries.
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Thread Together Clothing
We can support families to access Thread Clothing (women’s and men’s clothing) for everyday wear, workwear, and seasonal needs.
Support Beyond the NDIS
We work closely with a range of community organisations to help families access services outside of the NDIS, including:
Grant Funding Pathways
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Support for people with a NDIS plan
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Additional grant options for children and young people up to 17 years old
Carers SA & Young Carers
Connection to supports for carers, young carers, respite options, and wellbeing programs.
The Smith Family
Support with education programs, learning resources, and family assistance.
Concessions & Financial Supports
We can help families explore concession options they may be eligible for, including:
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Utility concessions
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Transport concessions
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Health and medication concessions
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Cost‑of‑living supports
How to Access These Supports
Families can contact us directly to discuss eligibility and available options. We will work with you to understand your needs and connect you to the right supports.
Referral Form
Feedback
"Honestly, if you are in need of a support worker through NDIS - Jayden is your guy! He has just very recently taken on my son as a client and we have nothing but positive things to say about him, and the level of care and support he is providing and offering! Jacinta also offers support coordination - such a lovely couple with a passion for this field of work - they will not disappoint!" - Regional based Family in Far West Coast
"My experience with Wara Yindi services has been nothing but positive. Wara Yindi was recommended to me by a friend and I’ve never looked back. Jacinta is an extremely experienced and amazing support coordinator there’s nothing to hard for her and she has always been there for both myself and my son. I couldn’t recommend Wara Yindi services highly enough. I’m glad I found them and they have a client for life." - Adelaide Metro based Partictipant
"Wara Yindi Support Service consistently goes above and beyond in supporting participants. It delivers timely and relevant NDIS updates, clearly outlining changes in accessible language. The services offered are culturally safe, transparent, and informative. There is also a wide range of support provided, all tailored to help individuals achieve their own unique goals." - Community Service Provider
Reviews
"Jacinta has become a very valuable member of not just our support team, but also for myself and our home as a whole. She constantly and continually goes above and beyond to always support our family in every way asked, and then some. She goes far above and beyond her job role as a SC and is always providing support, suggestions, research, seeking/sorting and sourcing the absolute best possible solutions, situations, support, advice, therapies, items. Our family and I feel like we would be completely lost without her continual support. No task, situation, issue, need, want, cry for help is ever too big or too small nor inconvenient. I am very thankful to have her be apart of our team and family." Whyalla based Family
"Before finding Wara Yindi Support Services I was lost at how to handle and use my son’s plan to the best of its ability to build him up as much as possible. He not only was missing things that he needed and required I also didn’t know how to engage new services to make sure my son isn’t being treated as number but a human who needs some extra help. As a mum who has always had to advocate hard for her son having Jacinta help, support and uplift me while also advocating for him has been nothing but comforting. After two years of feeling along in his journey I finally found someone who I know has our back 1000%. My family would not be where it is now without your support, guidance and passion you have put into us as a whole." - Port Augusta based Family
Testimonials
"Jacinta was a great support when receiving my first client, going out on my own as an independent support worker I have had nothing but positive energy and team work from Jacinta. Her initiative to help others is admirable. I feel so privileged to have Jacinta as my clients support coordinator. Overall amazing communication, respect, and professionalism, Always a listening ear and time management is on point." - Support Service
"Very easy to communicate with and get a hold of. Very professional and great attention to detail." - Support Provider
"Wara Yindi has a special way of connecting with clients to form rapport and be culturally sensitive. As a provider, the referrals are thorough and they help me as an OT to feel prepared when interacting with participants. They are positive and responsive." - Mental Health Service Provider
Helpful Resources
Disability Gateway Services helps people with disability, their families and carers find the information, services and support they need in Australia.
Welcome to the Disability Gateway | Disability Gateway
Carers SA/Young Carers offer a wide range of personalised services, packages and information to support Carers from all backgrounds and cultures at no cost to you.
Kids Helpline is Australia’s only free (even from a mobile), confidential 24/7 online and phone counselling service for young people aged 5 to 25.
Kids Helpline | Phone Counselling Service | 1800 55 1800
Whatever you are going through, Lifeline are here to listen. Lifeline’s crisis supporters can speak with you by phone, text or online chat at any time of the day or night. You are never alone.
24/7 Crisis Support by Lifeline: Call, Chat, Text for Confidential Help
We encourage you to connect with 13YARN on 13 92 76 (24 hours/7 days) and talk with an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Crisis Supporter. No shame, no judgement, safe place to yarn. We’re here for you.
13YARN - Call 13 92 76 | 24 /7 Crisis support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders
As always, a gentle reminder that Wara Yindi Support Services is not an emergency or crisis response service. If you or a loved one requires urgent support during this period, please contact:
Emergency Services: 000
Mental Health Triage: 13 14 65
Lifeline: 13 11 14
Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636