Paediatricians
Paediatricians manage the health of children, including physical, behaviour and mental health issues. They diagnose and treat childhood illness, infections and disease.
Down Syndrome
Use this page to get an overview of the options available to you. Scroll through the sections, or click one of the jump-to links below to go straight to the area mentioned.
Down syndrome explained
Down syndrome is the most common intellectual disability with more than 13,000 Australians currently living with the condition. Many people living with Down syndrome lead happy and normal lives within their communities, while others may require high support due to complex health issues or a greater level of intellectual disability. Learn more about Down syndrome and the supports available below.
Who can help?
There are a number of professionals who can help you work through the different challenges of a Down syndrome diagnosis. They can help you to understand and adapt to the condition and also give you the tools and support to gain a variety of skills such as communication or social interactions, manage behaviours or learn important life skills.
Speech Therapists
Speech therapists work on smoothing out communication and swallowing difficulties in both children and adults.
Occupational Therapists
Occupational therapists (OTs) help people of all ages gain or regain their confidence and independence in everyday life.
Plan Support
Support services to help you manage the planning and funding allocated under NDIS.
Support for people with Down syndrome
From understanding accommodation options to getting help with childhood supports, accessing in home support or learning important life skills, there is a wide range of support services available to help you if you are looking for assistance to manage day-to-day life with Down syndrome.
Childhood Supports
Early childhood intervention supports can help maximise your child's development and give them the skills to participate in daily activities.
Community Support
Being social and active in your community helps you to remain connected and is good for your wellbeing.
Education
Students with disability can access additional support at primary and high school through both internal and external services.
In-Home Support
Supports such as personal care, cleaning or nursing care to help look after you in your own home.
Down syndrome related information articles
Here you’ll find a selection of information articles related to Down syndrome that have been published on Disability Support Guide to help you understand the condition or give further insight into getting the right supports.
What is an intellectual disability?
There is a wide range of intellectual disabilities that people may be diagnosed with and the way this affects a person’s life can vary greatly.
Down syndrome resources
Whether you are the person living with Down syndrome, a carer, family member or friend, there are some great resources and support groups available to help you with practical and emotional support. Support groups, either in the community or online, can offer you the opportunity to get in touch with people in a similar situation and share experiences and information.
Madeline’s story: Walking the runway for equality
In 2015, an 18 year old woman from Brisbane, Australia made history while strutting her stuff on the catwalk at New York Fashion Week. Not only was she showcasing beautiful designs, but in that very moment she was making history as the first woman with Down syndrome to walk in the highly coveted event and the world was certainly watching.
What is Down syndrome?
Down syndrome is a genetic condition affecting more than 13,000 Australians. It is the most common chromosome disorder and intellectual disability.
Popular Down Syndrome Articles
Down syndrome is a genetic condition affecting more than 13,000 Australians. It is the most common chromosome disorder and intellectual disability. Every person with Down syndrome is unique and there are varying levels.
Whether you are the person living with Down syndrome, a carer, family member or friend, there are some great resources and support groups available to help you with practical and emotional support.
Three years ago, an 18 year old woman from Brisbane, Australia made history while strutting her stuff on the catwalk at New York Fashion Week. Not only was she showcasing beautiful designs, but in that very moment she was making history as the first woman with Down syndrome to walk in the highly coveted event and the world was certainly watching.
If you or your child has been diagnosed with Down syndrome you should be able to receive Government funded assistance and support services under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).