Growing Up Well podcast: Episode 3 | Independent Living & Life Skills

Matt and co-host Karen are joined by Mags, Specialist Project Officer in Individualised Living and Futures Planning through the Shaping Tomorrow initiative at Valued Lives. Mags works alongside people with disability and their families to explore what home really means — supporting individuals to design living arrangements that reflect their goals, values, strengths, and vision for a good life beyond traditional models. Together, the conversation unpacks individualised living in a practical and reassuring way, helping families move beyond the pressure of “moving out” and instead focus on building readiness over time. In this episode, we explore: · The difference between living independently and individualised living · What independence can realistically look like for people with complex needs · How everyday life skills build confidence and choice over time · Supporting communication, self-advocacy, and decision-making at home · The important role families, trusted people, and support workers play · Housing and living options currently available in Australia · How planning early helps avoid crisis-driven decisions · The role — and limits — of systems like the NDIS in supporting home and living outcomes This episode reframes independence as something built gradually — through relationships, routines, and opportunities to grow confidence long before major transitions occur.